The only point missing from your excellent coverage of council’s unanimous approval to undertake the long-awaited clean-up of Mannion Bay was the unwavering support that our MP John Weston has given over the years to those tireless community members who sparked this action.
Bruce Russell, the initiator and main spokesperson for the Friends of Mannion Bay, says John Weston’s resolute leadership from a federal perspective was instrumental in encouraging our provincial government to work with BIM in jointly attacking the problem. These critical connections eventually resulted in approval of Senior Bylaw Officer Bonnie Brokenshire’s remediation plan, which involves all government jurisdictions in responsibility for Mannion Bay and its beaches.
John Weston was somewhat a voice in the wilderness over the years, when all parties seemed lax about the issues surrounding ocean and lake front usage. But he stuck with it, even breaking with the Conservative Party to support an opposition MP’s motion, demonstrating independence and championing constituents’ interests ahead of party priorities. Further, he introduced a Private Member’s Bill to make it a criminal offence to abandon a boat, subject to jail time and fines of up to $100,000.
Because John has spent so much time on Bowen, he had first-hand knowledge of the problems in our iconic Mannion Bay and the economic, environmental and recreational impacts of its abuse on our community. He understood, he cared and he acted, for the long-term benefit of our island. MP John Weston deserves our recognition and gratitude for his contribution to this milestone achievement for Bowen.
Gayle Stevenson
