Editor:
Thank you for your coverage of the Idle No More gathering in Sechelt (Coast Reporter, Jan. 11). It was yet another impressive showing of grassroots concerns with the direction taken by the Harper government.
I was taken aback to learn that MP John Weston was in this part of the riding for two photo opportunities. One would think he would have taken advantage of this gathering to meet, hear and learn from hundreds of his constituents. Weston's choice to preach through a reporter unfortunately typifies not only his personal approach to politics, but also that of his government. The Conservatives revel in telling people, rather than consulting.
With respect to the content of Weston's message, I have a single observation: John, before you start enunciating principles to others, learn to apply the same to yourself first. How can you talk of "accountability, transparency and equality" when the large majority of Canadians oppose the Harper government, at least in part, for its total failure to practise these principles?
I fear the Conservatives' arrogance and authoritarian attitude will cause greater dissension and disruption in a Canada once respected for tolerance and consensus.
Paul Johnston, Roberts Creek
