Letter of the day: Martin misses mark

Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 19/02/2010 (4780 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

It is shocking to see Pat Martin (MP takes aim at youth centre, Feb. 18) oppose a youth centre where it is so desperately required. I’m really not religious — sometimes I wish I was — but it seems to me that there is some structure in the huge new churches in Winnipeg, and happiness. Can you imagine new great tap dancers, fitness freaks, accomplishments galore coming out of there? Isn’t that what is needed in the area that, if I am not wrong, is part of Martin’s riding federally.

It has been interesting that we hear nary a word from provincial or federal governments regarding the dire problems in the core area of Winnipeg. We want change and if this works do it — for gawd’s sake.

ROBERTA BATY

Winnipeg

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In voicing his opposition to public funding of a new Youth for Christ facility in the downtown area (MP takes aim at youth centre, Feb. 18), Winnipeg MP Pat Martin once again demonstrates his anti-Christian bias. Just a few years ago, he was vehemently opposing a Christian businessmen’s prayer breakfast while espousing the foolish notion that such a gathering was somehow "exclusionary" when in fact it was open to anyone wishing to participate.

In his latest episode of ill-informed buffoonery, Martin displays an appalling ignorance of an organization (YFC) that has for decades shown an exemplary commitment to the troubled youth of this city. Never at a loss for voicing a bizarre opinion when within earshot of a media microphone, Martin once again fails to set aside his own selfish bias to see the bigger picture and the greater good that will come from it.

Countless organizations, both religious and otherwise, routinely receive funding from various levels of government and not a word of protest is uttered from Martin until a Christian group seeks the same assistance. Another convoluted viewpoint riddled with double standards from the so-called party of inclusion and tolerance — well done Pat.

KEN MacDONALD

Winnipeg

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This youth fundamentalist Christian group’s facility is a blessing and is desperately needed. It is a positive response to the issues we as a society are facing.

Since the 1940s, the religious component has been watered down to the point that reflects where we are today. Youth for Christ, which is the energy behind this project, does not push Christianity on those who receive help from this facility if they have other beliefs. These youth are still helped in constructive ways.

I celebrate this endeavour as it can only add to and benefit our society and give kids a real chance at the "good life." We must remember men of goodwill are all in this boat together.

Hart Peikoff

Winnipeg