Library priorities
No one has commented on the $4,000 spent on Chinese books for the library [“Library orders Chinese books,” October 14].
I have lived in Powell River for 75 years, We have always had Chinese people living here and they were excellent merchants and citizens. We also have many more people from various parts of the world who have contributed to our city.
These new Chinese are going to build a high school with a library; wouldn’t it have been more prudent to inquire what they will offer. I’m sure it will be well stocked!
We’ve been told more money will be needed for our new library; wouldn’t that be our top priority?
We want to welcome newcomers and new businesses, but living within our budget shouldn’t be a concern.
It’s too late, the books are ordered, but it certainly makes one wonder at the wisdom.
Rosemary Hawkins
Manitoba Avenue
Trudeau undemocratic
This letter is regarding your expectation that the Liberals will not engage in "the standard game that the Harper government did," in reference to rewarding ridings for loyal support and trying to buy ballots with promises of infrastructure spending [“Changes afoot,” October 21].
If you were to review Justin Trudeau's campaign speeches you would find lots of promises of infrastructure spending. You seem to be of the opinion that this behaviour was unique to the Harper government. Actually, Harper was simply carrying on with what the Liberal government did before him. This happens at all levels of government, and likely with most. I'm not condoning it, just saying.
You also hold out hope that the Liberal government will not "have open disdain for democracy." The Conservative Party has always allowed its MPs free votes on matters of conscience.
Trudeau has said that will not be the case for his MPs. When Trudeau was asked at an event which foreign government he most admires, his answer was, "China, because their basic dictatorship is allowing them to actually turn their economy around on a dime."
No open disdain for democracy?
Kathy Kiernan
Highway 101
