November 25th, 2022 - 10:23am

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 25, 2022

MASSE DEMANDS ANSWERS AND ACTIONS FROM LIBERAL GOVERNMENT ON THE ILLEGAL BLOCKADE OF THE AMBASSADOR BRIDGE THAT TOOK PLACE IN WINDSOR IN FEBRUARY 2022

(OTTAWA) Brian Masse MP demanded the Liberal government answer on their inaction to help the City of Windsor and Windsor residents dealing with the aftermath of $5.7 million due to the illegal blockade that took place at the Ambassador bridge in February 2022.

The question reads: “Windsor was under siege during last winter’s illegal protest – residents lost their employment, schools and doctors offices closed and people lost contact with their families. The City of Windsor stepped up to clear the blocked Ambassador Bridge in a professional way that became an example for Ottawa – but it came with a price tag of $5.7 million dollars. 

And who is paying the price? Windsor residents including the affected area that has high child poverty, low-income families and immigrants. And who has not paid? The Federal government. What will it take for this government to respect the people of Windsor and pay for the harm their lack-of-action has caused?”  

 In response, the government recognized Mr. Masse’s work on the border and blockade, however, chose to not answer the question.

“I am appalled and disgusted that the federal government has not paid, the province has not paid, powerful lobbyists or industries have not paid, nor have the protesters paid and this has left the cost on the backs of all Windsor residents including those who lost hours of employment, school, cancellation of health appointments, and other significant changes to their daily lives for weeks. The stress and anxiety placed on residents for no fault of their own should not be taken lightly nor should we be collectively punished for doing the right thing.

If it takes the Liberals to hold press conferences and patting themselves on the back to take credit, let’s hope they do it sooner than later. This is a stressful and unjust position to put taxpayers in as it has real consequences for the upcoming budget year for the City of Windsor whether it may be increased taxes, reduction in spending on social problems, cutting programs or other reduced services like infrastructure repair,” stated Masse.

The City of Windsor has sent a letter to the Liberal government dated March 15, 2022 outlying the hefty price tags removing the protesters and protecting the public. There has been no response and no commitment from the federal government. The Mayor of Windsor testified at the Emergency Act Committee last night which can be found here: https://www.ourcommons.ca/Committees/en/Meetings?committeeAcronyms=DEDC&meetingDate=2022-11-24

Masse’s question today can be found here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JDcyHLBQAI

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