Regional councillors want action against public harrassment
Some disturbing revelations by Regional councillors at Corporate Services Committee, regarding on-line and verbal harrassment from the public.
Councillor Laura Ip told of letters, emails and social media posts that she should feel unsafe, and wishing her a lonely and painful death. She added there was more than just that.
She says no difference of political view makes this acceptable. "A few times I've had to report behaviour to NRPS. Officers have advised me more than once, to keep screenshots of tweets, posts and emails from the most problematic individuals whenever they contact me, or post something about me. I keep screenshots from 43."
Mayor Jim Diodati revealed death threats against him, and mentioned other local politicians at other political levels who've dealt with similar situations.
The committee voted to look further into a citizen's code of conduct, and ask police to be more assertive.
In speaking for the motion, St. Catharines resident Ann-Marie Zammit said some residents feel it's their right. "I believe in pushing boundaries, and questioning the powers that be. However, I do not believe in using threats, bullying, or intimidation tactics to achieve my goals to take down councillors who don't agree or share my viewpoints."
Niagara Falls resident Sandor Ligetfalvy was against the code of conduct idea, presented by Mayor Wayne Redekop, saying claims of abuse are based on unproven allegations against unknown people.
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