Councillor Dustin Bulloch backs Elect Respect campaign promoting respect in public life
RIDEAU LAKES — Rookie councillor Dustin Bulloch is urging his Rideau Lakes colleagues to join a national campaign promoting civility in politics.
Bulloch is adding his name to Elect Respect, a growing movement of municipal leaders across Canada calling for respect and professionalism in public life.
Following a tense council meeting on Oct. 6, when senior township staff left the chamber citing an unsafe work environment, Bulloch said it is time for change, and a return to courtesy.
He plans to bring forward a motion of support for the Elect Respect campaign, a national initiative encouraging political leaders and residents to commit to respectful public engagement.
“This program aims to fight back against the rise of toxic behaviour in our public discourse and encourage a commitment by the public and political leaders to respectful public engagement,” states the campaign’s mission statement.
The campaign aims to “remind everyone that disagreement doesn’t have to mean disrespect” and to promote accountability among elected officials and community members alike.
The pledge has drawn backing from dozens of public officials across the country, including Oakville MP Anita Anand, Toronto Deputy Mayor Amber Morley, Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter and Westport Mayor Robin Jones.
Bulloch joins more than 150 municipal and provincial representatives from Ontario, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Alberta and British Columbia who have signed the pledge.
‘A turning point’ for Rideau Lakes
Rideau Lakes councillor Dustin Bulloch called the Oct. 6 meeting a defining moment for the township.
“Staff have made it abundantly clear they can no longer tolerate this toxic working environment,” he said. “All members of council, myself included, need to reflect on our conduct and commit to an atmosphere of respect, decorum and professionalism.”
He said he fully supports the recommendations of the Joint Health and Safety Committee, which led to temporary changes in how council and committee meetings will operate.
Elected in a June by-election after the resignation of Joan Delaney in March, Bulloch said the role has been both challenging and rewarding.
“I entered the by-election with the intention of being a facilitator,” he said. “While the issues and conflicts on council are deep and personal, I remain committed to moving the business of council forward.”
Being new to the table, he added, has helped him stay somewhat apart from entrenched divisions.
“I have the luxury of remaining semi-removed from the fractious relationships that have developed over the past three years,” he said. “I believe discussions need to remain focused on the issues and not get personal.”
Dustin Bulloch said he intends to run in the next municipal election, whether it is held as scheduled in 2026 or sooner, and hopes the current situation can serve as a reset for Rideau Lakes council and a chance to rebuild trust.
“I believe we can do better,” he said.Learn more about the campaign at electrespect.ca
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