Bracebridge, ON. - Today, Tony Clement, MP for Parry Sound- Muskoka, responds to an article written in the Toronto Star on June 26 about the Canadian Flags on Wellington Street Bridge in Bracebridge, Ontario.
“In the days surrounding Canada Day, I would think a publication such as the Toronto Star would celebrate the Canadian Flag, rather than nit pick communities who choose to display it”, said Clement. “As most residents can see on Wellington Street Bridge, there isn't room or need for additional dedicated flag masts. In fact, when foreign heads of state come to Ottawa for an official visit, lamp posts around the Parliament Buildings proudly display Canadian Flags.”
Heritage Canada’s guidelines are not official protocol, but rather etiquette established by practice and are not mandatory. The predominant rule is that the Canadian Flag is to be treated with respect and dignity.
The rules go on to say that it should be flown on a dedicated mast, but then list several other ways a flag can be displayed correctly- hanging over a building (as is the case at a majority of government buildings in Ottawa right now), used as a background and suspended over a street.
The rules also list specific don’ts with respect to displaying our flag, and the manner in which the Canadian flag is displayed on the bridge is not listed as a faux-pas.
It is incorrect to say that Bracebridge is defying protocol with regards to the Canadian Flag. It is being displayed with respect befitting this important national symbol.
“I would encourage the Toronto Star to read the entire Heritage Canada document before jumping to conclusions,” said Clement.
