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Massena's Mayor Criticizes Bridge Closure For Protest

Story Published: Jan 11, 2013 at 5:07 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jan 11, 2013 at 5:07 PM EDT

Massena Mayor Jim Hidy says he opposes the closure of the Massena to Cornwall International Bridge for demonstrations like the one St. Regis Mohawks held last weekend in support of the international 'Idle No More' movement.
 
Hidy says the five-hour shutdown of the bridge by Canadian officials last Saturday allowing Native American marchers to protest was not only an inconvenience for travelers wanting to use the bridge, but also disrupted commerce and business.

Hidy says while he sympathizes with native concerns, there needs to be a dialogue to prevent similar bridge closures in the future.
 
Hidy's position comes in the wake of a storm of controversy centering on a blog written by Massena Town Supervisor Joe Gray earlier in the week.

Gray blasted the Mohawk protest and bridge closing, describing it as "pointless" - setting off a war of words.

Mohawk Tribal Chief Ron LaFrance responded to Gray's blog by suggesting Akwesasne residents boycott Massena businesses.

Gray later apologized for his comments.
Thursday, May 23, 2013
, Watertown, NY

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