Presentations, Introductions and Announcements

The Mayor stated it is important that Council send a united message to the residents, as much as to the government, that these cuts will hurt our City and impact on the residents directly; and that he believes it is the residents who will help send a message to the Province, strongly suggesting they should change course. The Mayor stated that it is important that Council also send a clear and united message to the Premier and his government, and that he looks forward to Council's debate on the matter and sending at least three messages: first, Council's profound opposition to these cuts and the unilateral, retroactive way in which they were imposed well into Council's financial year; second, Council's willingness to start over with a businesslike consultative process through which we try to find efficiencies together; and third, Council's resolve to take our concerns and our message to the people of Toronto by whatever means are necessary so that the government will put people and good public policy ahead of party. Councillor Thompson, during the morning session of the meeting, welcomed the Grade 4 and 5 students from Sathya Sai School who were present in the Council Chamber with their principal and teachers, and the leaders of the Walk for Values, which raises awareness of five human values. Council Thompson advised Council that the students will be walking on Sunday, May 26th. Council Thompson also invited Members of Council to join the students on May 23rd when they will be coming to Nathan Phillips Square to raise a flag at 12:00 noon.