Discussing: Library Chief, Barry Holmes

By Melinda Bane

(WINDSOR, ON) – Barry Holmes, Barry Holmes, where art thou Barry Holmes? That’s the question on many minds today as Mr. Holmes has extended his medical leave for a third time. The as-yet-unnamed illness took hold at the most horribly inconvenient time for the Library CEO.  Imagine his frustration, JUST as he is preparing to appear before council to speak on the Library Scandal, he is laid low by sudden illness, therefore unable to defend himself.

But defend himself he must and as a concerned citizen I feel it is my duty to send a message to Mr. Holmes that he may not be receiving from elsewhere.

Dear Mr. Holmes

It is of the utmost importance that you rally your strength and find a way to speak to these allegations. I realize you are unwell and I understand serious illness but this is not something that can wait any longer.

Your extended illness at such an inopportune time has caused people in some quarters to grow suspicious. Ugly rumors are starting to surface. Some think it’s too convenient, this illness of yours, and that you are evading your responsibilities. Others think that you are being pressured from above to be quiet. You know how people are; the longer the real facts are withheld, the more people are going to assume outrageous “facts” of their own to fill in the blanks.

You need to nip this in the bud NOW before things get even further out of hand.

Your professional future may well be compromised if you do not address this immediately.  Any potential employer who Googles your name will only see the stories about the scandal and the unanswered allegations against you. How do you think that will affect future employment opportunities for you?

What you need, sir, is to give your side of the story to someone you can trust. You need to have an unbiased person who has nothing to gain or lose by getting the truth out.  You need a person whose job won’t be at risk due to political pressure. Allow me to be that person for you.  Let me tell your story.  No one will pressure me into writing something that is not true nor would they make me omit an inconvenient truth.

That’s what is so great about The Square; I have the freedom to tell the truth.

I’m away from home right now but I will be back in about a week.  At that time I can arrange to meet you at home or in hospital if necessary.  I know your friends and family want you to rest and recuperate during this time of crisis but it is vital that your side be told.  I do not wish to aggravate your health further so I promise to be gentle in respect to your illness.

To further set your mind at ease I promise to record every word so that you are not misquoted in any way.  We could even feature you on Squaring Off if you are well enough, that way the words are undoubtedly your own.  My only agenda is the truth.

Have your people contact me through my e-mail below if you are unable to do so yourself. Get well, Mr. Holmes…the sooner the better.

So tell me, dear People, what are your thoughts on the matter. You can leave a comment below or e-mail me at melindabane@hotmail.com or find me on face book. I look forward to your insights.

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