Editor:  The amalgamation debate has once again become the topic du jour in the 91Ô­´´s. If achieved, the implications will be extraordinary, as amalgamation changes landscapes — both economic and political — and not necessarily in a positive manner.

While debate is vital and healthy, it is regrettable that those adding to the discussion often fail in providing any supporting evidence that amalgamation pays dividends for taxpayers.  Instead they employ the Nike axiom —Just Do it.

Residents of the two 91Ô­´´s should consider the following:

The greater the gap between a local representative and the constituent, the greater the loss of accountability and ownership of the issues. 

If amalgamation occurs, the reduction in local representation — particularly for residents within the City of 91Ô­´´ — will be severe, and one may argue unjustifiable, when considering the finite savings that may be realized due to one less council.  

Moreover, the cuts to the bureaucracy may not achieve the economies of scale that believers in amalgamation propagate.  

Lastly, there are alternatives such as shared-service agreements which may better serve the public.

One may excuse the general public for taking the one-dimensional stand based purely on an economic arguement; we should not excuse local politician(s) who follow suit. 

Such primitive pandering fails our communities and the residents within. We must recognize and place a higher value on the oft-forgotten second dimension — local political representation.

When considering such a serious decision, residents, politicians, and the media should take time to research and analyze the results of the numerous amalgamations that have taken place — often forced upon communities — in provinces such as Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. Mass amalgamations in Australia also provide ample evidence that the consequences are less than satisfactory. 

Interestingly, the concept of de-amalgamation has grown in Quebec.

We encourage residents to visit www.cupe403.ca and read more about amalgamation.  

We also encourage residents to consider the many sources and studies within academia prior to making a final decision.

Paul Albrecht, president

CUPE 403