Let’s take democracy seriously

January 20, 2016 · 0 Comments

For years, I have taken the time to peruse each page of the Citizen.
I do believe that local papers can make important contributions to the community beyond local commerce. I believe that they can be a key forum for local dialogue.
Unfortunately, the misuse of the Citizen by our local MP, that is being allowed by your desk, makes a mockery of both the title, Ottawa Journal, and the potential role that the column might play. The Dec. 23 issue is entitled “The origins of Christmas cookies.” I would like to know exactly what role your paper is playing in the promotion of responsible government by allowing such items as this to be printed?
Almost all of the Ottawa Journal entries make no positive contribution of any kind. I am sure that the Member appreciates the opportunity for free face time in the local paper week after week. It also provides some activity for the intern or assistant, paid on the public dime, to dig up the recipes and other drivel that the Ottawa Journal delivers under the MP’s smiling visage. I doubt very, very much that anyone in Caledon believes that we were reading about our MP’s culinary skills.
It is time that the paper eliminate this insult to the electorate or demand that the content of the Ottawa Journal, as well as the usually less offensive but equally partisan From Queen’s Park, be redesigned to inform and encourage local dialogue and discourse. Surely the Citizen has journalists who would relish the opportunity of creating a format that would encourage the public to be involved and interested in the content, and the paper!
Please reflect on what the Citizen can do to be a positive force!
David Kerr,
Caledon East