VIDEO: AURORA COUNCIL MEETING ERUPTS

MEMBERS OF THE. PUBLIC YELLED “COWARD” AS THE MAYOR SCUTTLED OFF

Tonight, during a scheduled Council Meeting, enraged citizens turned out big time for our second peaceful “Demand Justice for Heiniu” protest at Aurora Town Hall. Crowds close to 100 strong picketed out in front.

As the meeting came to order, Mayor Tom Mrakas recited the stale, overused statement about the town’s inability to say anything about the case, on cue he mentioned that they “felt for the family” but at this time there was nothing that could be stated publicly due to “privacy” and “an ongoing investigation”.

The chamber remained respectful while a previously scheduled presentation went forward… then a boiling point was reached as more members of the public poured into the gallery holding their signs demanding transparency, accountability and action.

Over 30 people entered the chamber and stood in open doorways holding signs and demanding a statement from the elected officials.

“[Mayor} Mrakas stated that the protesters are told to leave Chambers as he quickly exited the room. He apppeared annoyed.

He called an extended recess during which he brought in York Regional Police (YRP) reinforcement. Maybe 6-8 in total. Seemed like an over the top response. Last time I checked we have freedom of speech in this country?” – Roseanna Greig

Picture courtesy of Roseanna Greig.

Mayor Tom Mrakas called an adjournment and scuttled off out of chambers.

Members of the public yelling “COWARD” as he left the chamber.

While all other Councillors left, Councillor John Gallo stayed in the chamber speaking to protestors. He said that he would bring forth a point of order once the meeting was back in session to have Heiniu’s owners address Council this evening.

The 15 minute adjournment clock ticked down then it was restarted to 15 minutes again, then again.

Councillor Gallo brought forth his motion… the Mayor did not seem impressed. Why???

Aurora is having a municipal election later this year. John Gallo is running against incumbent Tom Mrakas.

THANKS TO JOHN GALLO’S efforts Heiniu’s father spoke first via an interpreter…

Time stamp: 56.36

What happened next was gripping… truly gripping.

It was the next statement that broke everyone.

Emma Ge… Heiniu’s Mum spoke from her heart about what this has done to their family.

About her having to tell her two young children that their dearly loved family pet was gone forever.

How the Town’s complete lack of any level of compassion, accountability has made her question everything about what is good and fair.

At one point, Emma let out a heart wrenching wail that took everyone’s
breath away.

Looking at the public gallery, people were in tears.

THE FIGHT IS NOT OVER
So tonight… our voices were heard… but the fight is just beginning.

Provincial Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) is actively investigating but their track record of achieving justice is poor to say the least…. but we will be ensuring that the drum of the public continues.

Today, we launched a brand NEW letter writing campaign targeting Provincial Animal Welfare Services’ (PAWS) Chief Animal Welfare Officer, Solicitor General Michael Kerzner who oversees PAWS, the Ontario Attorney General, York Region’s Solicitor General and of course Doug Ford.

The campaign has a letter already crafted.

In total 9 elected government officials and high ranking government employees who have the power to bring about change will receive a done-for-you letter with just a couple clicks.

YOUR voice will be heard.

Can you spare less than 2 minutes to fight for JUSTICE FOR HEINIU?

NEW done-for-you campaign here