What's the policy, Dalton?

Sep 14, 2007

He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.”

Book of John, chapter 8, verse 7.

Those words from the Good Book are always relevant in day-today living, but at times like this – a provincial election – it would be nice if a few more us paid attention to them.

A good start would be if Dalton McGuinty and his team would pay it some attention.

The touchstone issue of the 2007 Ontario election thus far is a proposal from John Tory to extend public funding to religious schools provided they follow the essentials public school boards do — accredited teachers and following the provincial curriculum.

Tory’s plan has taking a flogging from all sides, wary about the estimated $400 million plan for a host of reasons.

But, trying to lead the mob of doubters is Mr. McGuinty calling himself a defender of public education and someone who would never allow our children to be divided along the lines of religion.

Only thing is under his leadership, taxpayer dollars were used and would continue to be used to put one religion on a pedestal above all others.

As many wonderful things as the Liberal machine have to say about the public education system they have supported Catholic schools to the exclusion of everyone else.

Is this fair?

Oh, God no!

The United Nations has said as much. The Ontario Conservative Party has said as much. The Green Party has said as much. Every religious community forced to the sidelines and asking ‘why not me’ has said as much.

But, Ontarians continue to pay for the perpetuation of papal propaganda on the province’s pupils.

And McGuinty was the first to step right up and jab at Tory when he fumbled over a question about teaching creationism in religious schools.

Well Dalton, you’re already paying for religious schools – why don’t you tell us what the policy is?

Or how about this Mr. Premier?

Are taxpayer dollars being used to teach that homosexuality, same-sex marriage, birth control and non-marital sex will send one into a tortured fiery existence for eternity?

Just who has access to public funding for their school is way overdue for debate in this province and this election, if nothing else, will make sure the merits Tory’s proposal, the status quo, or exclusively public schools get a good airing.

And it is good that McGuinty is taking part in the debate.

He should just get down on his high horse when he does.

R.L