Dear Publisher,
I was very disappointed to read your editorial of June 1st where you implied that the problems of Prince Edward County somehow paralleled our own tiny village. You laud the old saw “the best deal is when both parties walk away angry.”
What a terrible, short sighted, sophomoric, blistering, macho statement. Anger has no place in our village discussions where we have to live with our neighbours when the discussions are over. Anger has no place in any civilized discourse. The idea is to seek common ground as per good mediation, alternative dispute resolution and such. Though trite, a better quote would be “good compromise is when both parties walk away equally unhappy.” But I think we can do better. We must do better in an attempt to obtain something like a win – win situation.
That said I think your closing statement is among the worst I have read in recent memory…, “We will probably have to settle for majority rule”. Obviously with you totally ignoring the minimally invasive policies and procedures of large places like Tiny Township and Kawatha Lakes you have advertised your position on the matter and are now implying your ideas (and those of the Consultants) represent the majority.
Firstly, there is no data to support such a supposition. But more importantly your reference to Majority Rule is the “last refuge of scoundrels”, dictators, despots, the ruling Chinese party and so on. It leaves no openings for the wishes and opinions of others including New Canadians, the Aged, Blacks, Maritimers, Aboriginals etc.
Careful what you wish for John.
Regards,
Kevin Doyle
Dorcas Bay
