The Voice of North Grenville
The North Grenville Times
The Voice of North Grenville
Reaching by direct mail 8,500 homes and businesses in North Grenville www.ngtimes.ca
July 6, 2023
Vol. 11 No. 26
Kemptville rally protests climate policies in wake of wildfires
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by Brandon Mayer A rally took place last week outside of MP Michael Barrett’s office in downtown Kemptville, protesting a lack of action on climate change with a focus on recent wildfires that have caused poor air quality in the region. The group of protestors gathered in front of MP Barrett's office at 10am on June 28, and then moved on to the intersection of Prescott and Clothier Streets to wave their signs as vehicles and pedestrians passed. Times reporter Jen Gilroy was on site and described the atmosphere of the event as one of quiet determination and resolve – orderly, polite and very “civilized”, mixed with
worry for our collective future. “There was also frustration and a thread of underlying anger at government talk about problems but not much measurable and impactful action to forge and implement solutions,” said Jen. “However, from some, I got a sense of hope too, that with a commitment to action and change, governments and ordinary people can still act and make a positive difference.” Local Green Party of Ontario Constituency Association President Steve Gabell rang the bell and knocked on the door of MP Barrett's office, though no one came out to acknowledge the group's presence despite the lights being on inside. Steve lives in Kemptville. “I have a 3
year old, and it's our children, our grandchildren and future generations that will be impacted by climate change,” Steve told the Times. “That's a big part of my motivation. Having children made it much more personal. It's not an intellectual thing. Now I'm much more connected to it. We're here today to call for an end to fossil fuels and a transition to 100% clean energy.” Steve describes “clean energy” as renewables, solar winds, geothermal technology and the storage of energy. “Nuclear may be an option too but that's more controversial,” Steve added. “We're here today because Canada is on fire. We need massive action. We're in an emergency." Protesters could be heard repeating the ral-
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lying cry, “What do we want? Climate action! When do we want it? Now!” during the rally. The rally was associated with 350.org, described as “a people-powered movement for climate action.” “I'm here to make myself heard by our politicians and support 350. org,” said Kars resident Nicky Trudell at the rally. “We need to help our politicians understand that the climate emergency will impact every part of our economy and the need for action is now. I just keep plugging away hoping for action from politicians.” Kemptville resident Alex Leizert added: “I saw smog in town. My mom worries what my kids will grow up in if this is what I'm growing up in now.” Kemptville climate change activist and doctor Sarah Tucker also attended the rally, joined by her two daughters, Elsa and Aimee Burns, aged 9 and 6 respectively. “I'm impatient with the lack of federal movement [on climate change],” said Sarah. “It's creeping along at an unacceptably slow pace. I'm here for our kids. I'm also a doctor and see people suffering with the consequences of poor air quality. One in seven premature deaths in Canada are caused by [bad] air
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