We have learned from a reliable source that this information is true.
[ RESPONSES received from Councillor Ashe and Mayor Ryan ] It is absolutely shocking and very disturbing.
Two of these councillors vacationed out of the country, Costa Rica and the Bahamas. Councillors Ashe and McLean have been named in the media as having vacationed out of the country during the pandemic.
It a very sad occurrence and puts into question the political integrity and political professionalism of our Pickering councillors.
We have always looked at our councillors as public servants of utmost integrity, decency and uprightness, far removed from the madding crowd. The behaviour of these two politicians should not be seen as the typical modus operandi of our city’s other councillors.
However, there is no excuse or justification for foreign travel at this time, especially applicable to political representatives.
At the risk of causing unnecessary waves, we invited the two councillors to write their comments in regard to this. The citizens of Pickering deserve to hear from the councillors. Unconditional resignations may be the order of the day. We also invite Mayor Ryan to write a response.
NO RESPONSE TO DATE: Councillor McLean was asked for a response, 01 12 21
RESPONDED: Councillor Ashe has responded. See comments.
RESPONDED: Mayor Ryan has responded. See comments.
