Councillors ’embarrassed’ by Ramara mayor’s comments about people on welfare

By RAYMOND BOWE Barrie Examiner June 23 2010
Several county councillors took exception to a comment made by Ramara Township Mayor Bill Duffy that people on welfare who can physically work should “get out and get a job.” The comment was made at Tuesday’s Simcoe County council meeting as Duffy related a story regarding a landlord-tenant dispute.
Terry Talon, Simcoe County’s general manager of social services, said some people in the Ontario Works program may have a permanent disability that isn’t outwardly evident. In some cases, she said it can take a significant amount of time to be identified.
Clearview Township Deputy Mayor Alicia Savage said she was “embarrassed” by the “discriminatory and stereotypical” comments made by Duffy.
Bradford West Gwillimbury Deputy Mayor Dennis Roughley said he also found Duffy’s thoughts “offensive,” although he did acknowledge that there are some people who “milk the system.” However, Roughley said they are very much in the minority, adding Duffy’s comment overshadowed the progress that is being made within Ontario Works.
“We should be extremely proud of our achievements,” said Penetanguishene Mayor Anita Dubeau, adding other service providers have commended Simcoe County on its program delivery, including one program that has helped 240 people buy homes.
“Not everybody has a job, but they are out there pounding the pavement looking for work,” she said, while also conceding that there are a small amount of people who are taking advantage of the welfare system.
Springwater Township Mayor Tony Guergis said he has seen people reduced to tears of joy through services offered by Simcoe County, including affordable housing programs in Barrie, Orillia and Elmvale.
Adjala-Tosorontio Township Mayor Tom Walsh later said it’s a shame to see people spend their social assistance at the Beer Store. Although there was a collective groan, his comment was universally ignored by the rest of council.