The Editor:
Re: "New West politicians accuse Port Coquitlam council of 'silencing' Dupont'" (The Tri-City News,
I am deeply concerned about the punitive actions of Mayor West and Port Coquitlam city council in vilifying Coun. Laura Dupont, who is an outstanding public servant.
The devastating effects of COVID-19 have been offset by many examples of "random acts of kindness" in our Tri-Cities communities. Sadly, that attitude has not been replicated by members of Port Coquitlam council. They had the option of accepting Ms. Dupont's courageous and honest apology and then moving forward to work with her in the best interests of the city. Instead, it appears they set out to punish her as harshly as possible.
Why did the City send out a public statement about Coun. Dupont's punishment when they knew they could not release any details about her alleged wrongdoing? Without this information, residents cannot make an informed decision about what happened.
The city's unfair actions have the effect of hanging her out to dry as residents can only speculate about the hidden information. This has made the councillor's situation grist for the rumour mill and has resulted in ill-informed social media postings and gossip about her. This matter has been handled in a counterproductive manner.
As a former BC Minister of the Environment, I appreciate that Coun. Dupont has been a strong advocate on environmental issues, including climate change. It would be regrettable if Port Coquitlam's weak record on this urgent issue has prompted the Mayor and councillors to try to silence a member of council who was regularly speaking out for needed action.
John Cashore, Coquitlam
