The Ottawa Sun, Thursday, November 9, 2000

Locking Up Support
Russel candidate campaigns from jail cell
By Tom Van Dusen
vandusen@cyberus.ca

Russell Village - Anti-GST and anti-seatbelt activist Jean-Serge: Brisson has a unique location for his campaign headquarters - the Ottawa-Carleton Detention Centre.

The candidate for a Russell Twp. council seat had to miss an all-candidates debate Tuesday night after he was slapped with a 105-day sentence for unpaid fines.

But residents attending the meeting were told that Brisson is still campaigning from his cell. Supporters are encouraged to contact Brisson by email. dz510@freenet.carleton.ca

Good Behaviour

With good behaviour, he could get out in 30 days, long after the Nov. 13 election day. "I wonder if he has a cell-phone," joked one person.

Returning officer Ginette Bertrand has launched an investigation. She's getting legal advice on a clause in the Ontario Municipal Act which says no one can be a candidate while serving time in a penal institution.

However, Brisson registered before he was sent to jail. He also attended an all-candidates meeting held at Embrun Community Centre last week.

"It's very unusual and difficult," Bertrand said, adding, "there's no requirement for candidates to declare if they have legal matters pending when registering."

Ed Honey, one of the three Russell mayoral candidates, said he doesn't object to Brisson continuing his campaign. And, based on what he's hearing on the campaign trail, he won't be surprised if Brisson wins a council seat.

Committed

"Some voters won't like it but many see Jean-Serge as someone committed to causes and who doesn't give up."

Voter Andy LaFrance likened Brisson's offences to "tree-huggers" getting arrested for fighting for their cause.

A repeat candidate, Brisson has been in trouble with the law before, mostly due to his ongoing refusal to collect GST at his radiator repair business. He also says the law requiring seatbelt use is undemocratic.