Dear Prime Minister Harper,
In light of recent events which have occurred off of the north cost of Labrador, involving the tragic death of a Labrador youth, Burton Winters, we are writing in support of the “Take a Stand” campaign.
We support and appreciate the services offered by the Canadian Coast Guard personnel. However, with recent official statements which were made; we believe these clearly demonstrate that the current services received in Labrador are not adequate to meet the needs of the Labrador people.
We feel strongly that policies need to be reviewed, and changed to reflect the needs of the people it serves. Adequate resources need to be provided in order to carry out the mandate of the program. We believe that every Canadian citizen is deserving of the life saving services Canada offers 24/7, regardless of residence.
We request the services of a fully operational SAR program in Labrador, complete with full time posted personnel who are able to answer the call of duty when the need arises.
We, the people, also feel that it would be considered an act of good faith on behalf of the Canadian government to name or rename such a facility to reflect the courage, determination, and strength of Burton Winters, and honour the long and lonely walk he undertook in an attempt to return home.
Prime Minister, we sincerely hope that you will personally intervene in this matter, make the changes we have requested, and unite with us in this worthy campaign. The momentum from this campaign is quickly gaining support not only in Labrador, but nationally and internationally as well. With an online campaign that quickly grew to 15,061 members in a 50 hour period, we will continue with protests, candle light vigils, letter writing campaigns power hour black outs, whatever it takes, until our goal is met. UNITED WE STAND!
Sincerely, Yours,
Patricia Voisey
