A message of support for Robert Lovelace

Although we cannot be present today in Napanee, we want to make it clear that as your elected representatives in the federal and provincial parliaments, we find the decision handed down on February 15 by Justice Douglas Cunningham to be a grave injustice.

Bob Lovelace is a peaceful man. In contrast to protests in Caledonia and Deseronto, the anti-uranium protests in Robertsville have been defined by the absence of force or of the threat of violence, or no destruction of private property. These peaceful characteristics go a long way towards explaining the widespread support in the local non-aboriginal community and among municipal leaders for the protests. All of this is largely thanks to Bob Lovelace.

It is not for us to determine whether or not Bob Lovelace has broken the law or failed to be obedient to a court injunction. But it is clear to us that any disobedience he may have shown has at all times been peaceful, respectful, and civilized, in the very best tradition, dating back to Henry David Thoreau, of civil disobedience to unjust laws and unjust men.

So if it was Justice Cunningham’s intention to deliver a strong message to encourage respect for the law, he chose the wrong targets in Bob Lovelace, Paula Sherman, and Harold Perry.

As well, it is our view that the combination of fines and imprisonment imposed by the judge is grossly disproportionate to Mr. Lovelace’s act of civil disobedience, and therefore violates his right, under section 12 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, “not to be subjected to any cruel and unusual punishment.”

The Ontario government has failed in its obligation to update the Mining Act to reflect legitimate property-rights concerns, aboriginal concerns, and environmental concerns. Justice Cunningham’s decision compounds these problems, and serves to bring the administration of justice into disrepute. We will continue to voice our opposition until these wrongs are set right.

Sincerely,

Scott Reid and Randy Hillier

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