As the Côte Saint-Luc city councillor responsible for Toponymy, I have been watching with interest the controversy which erupted in Montreal over Mayor Gérald Tremblay’s unilateral decision to try and rename Park and Bleury Avenues after the late Robert Bourassa. First of all, let me say that something should have been named after Bourassa years ago by virtue of the number of years he spent as Quebec premier. I was not particularly fond of how he handled our language laws. Over time, his actions may have done more to contribute to the cause of sovereignty. That being said, I wonder why Montreal took 10 year after Bourassa’s death to get around to naming something after him. The residents and merchants of Park Ave. are furious with the mayor. And justifiably so. Perhaps a little consultation was in order before simply presenting a motion at council. He put his local councillors, particularly Helen Fotopolos, in a horrible position. Now the mayor is promising a free vote. Many from his own party will vote against his proposal. He should drop the matter completely. Stay with Bleury and let that be the end of it.
