Just like old times

It was like old times — well, at least like a few years ago — seeing Peter Trent back in Victoria Hall, talking about municipal affairs. He was there to introduce the evening’s guest speaker, Gazette columnist Henry Aubin, whose role in the merger/demerger mess cannot be overstated.

Mr. Trent did, however, commit slight oversight when he pointed out that Mr. Aubin was the sole journalist who consistently supported the demerger. Of course the Examiner was also there for the whole ride, staunchly supporting the past and present councillors, City officials and volunteer activists in their quest to get their city back.

Perhaps the paper’s proudest moment came in March of 2001, when Martin Barry’s one-on-one interview with Pierre Bourque exposed the Montreal Mayor’s shocking lack of understanding for the most basic issues and Westmount’s role in the proposed megacity.

Tough but simple questions, put straightforwardly to Mr. Bourque, were either ignored altogether or answered through a hazy subterfuge of doublespeak that came out looking downright ridiculous on paper.

Though certainly not the initial purpose of that interview, it led to a stinging rebuttal by Mr. Trent, who ended up addressing (or rather undressing) Mr. Bourque’s statements at a public meeting that packed Victoria Hall with cheering, angry residents. It may not have been the turning point of the battle, but I’m sure it inspired quite a few people to lend their free time to the cause. One thing I clearly remember is looking around the hall that night, seeing all those outraged people, hearing their bursts of applause and shouts of support for their mayor, and realizing the true power of the press—even a small local paper.

Another proud moment came three years later, during the euphoric party at Westmount City Hall immediately following the demerger referendum. In the midst of all the celebrating, two City officials came to me on separate occasions and joyfully pumped my hand, claiming the fight could not have been won without the Examiner.

Yes, the wine and champagne were flowing freely that night, but I like to think they really meant it.