July 13, 2012

The Standing Committee on General Government continued public consultations of the Aggregate Resource Act in the Waterloo Region earlier this week. Cambridge MPP Rob Leone was in attendance and was pleased the committee agreed to make time to hear local voices.

“I fought hard to ensure that ARA hearings were made accessible to the people of Cambridge and North Dumfries and I’m happy the Committee on General Government took the time to ensure the concerns of the people in our community were heard”.

Leone felt those responsible for conducting the ARA review needed to pay a visit to some of the gravel pits in and around the Waterloo Region. “It’s not enough to make decisions at Queen’s Park without traveling to the community and witnessing these concerns first hand.”

Leone also outlined the importance of public consultation and re-affirmed his party’s stance that community input and local decision making are essential for good government. “The committee has a responsibility to strike a balance between ensuring enough aggregate is available to build our schools, roads and hospitals, while at the same time listening to environmental and community concerns”

The all-party government committee had previously made a stop in Orangeville before coming to Waterloo Region. They will travel to Ottawa on July 16th and Sudbury the following day to conclude the community consultation portion of their business. Although the deadline for formal written submissions to the Aggregate Resource Act is July 17th, Leone welcomes questions, comments and concerns. 

You can contact his office at 519-623-5852 or by e-mail at rob.leone@pc.ola.org. 

You may also mail his constituency office at 498 Eagle Street N, Cambridge, ON, N3H 1C2.