A local MPP has joined the call for west Windsor businesses to get compensated for economic damage caused by the recent blockade of the Ambassador Bridge.
Windsor West MPP Lisa Gretzky introduced a motion at Queens Park Wednesday, asking the PC majority to authorize financial support for the businesses affected by the illegal blockade, which choked traffic near the bridge for almost a week in mid-February.
Gretzky's motion was made on behalf of Windsor-Tecumseh MPP Percy Hatfield and Essex MPP Taras Natyshak, both of the NDP. Essex NDP candidate Ron LeClair and Windsor-Tecumseh candidate Gemma Grey-Hall also showed support.
"The Ambassador Bridge blockade hurt families in Windsor. Autoworkers were laid off, small businesses were deeply impacted, and workers lost wages," said Gretzky. "People who need to cross the bridge to work or see family were stuck. Workers and businesses continue to deal with the fallout from the blockade."
The Ford government had granted compensation for businesses in downtown Ottawa hurt by the presence of the so-called Freedom Convoy, which prompted the federal government to invoke the Emergencies Act for the first time in its current incarnation. The government did not include support for Windsor.
"By refusing to act sooner to end the blockade, Ford made the situation worse here in Windsor. He is once again dragging his feet and refusing to help," said Gretzky.
The federal government announced last week that it was offering west Windsor businesses access to a $2.5-million fund. Those affected by the blockade could apply to receive as much as $10,000. That money is made available through Invest WindsorEssex’s Small Business centre.
