Niagara chair speaks out against “inappropriate comments” by West Lincoln mayor

Niagara’s regional chair says he is “deeply concerned and troubled” after West Lincoln Mayor Dave Bylsma asked a constituent about her menstrual cycle in an online message.

The message from Bylsma was posted on Twitter on Tuesday.

I was on the fence about whether to share this publicly, as an outreach worker I’m all about period positivity, but this isnt that. It is however an example of inappropriate behaviour. (Its also a little presumptuous given my age but thats neither here nor there.) pic.twitter.com/DWXqlyUZGk

— Emily Spanton (she/her/elle) (@whatdoesntkillu) May 18, 2021

“You posted that you received the vaccine a while back correct? Not a usual question to ask an acquaintance but did you notice any changes in your period?” Bylsma asked in the message.

“Again it’s also none of  my business I respect your person and privacy.”

Some people on social media have reported having menstrual changes after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Experts have said more research is needed to confirm a link between the two.

Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley issued a statement about Bylsma’s message and has apologized to the person it was directed to.

“It is exceptionally disappointing that a statement needs to be issued on a topic of conversation that is so obviously inappropriate. These types of interactions are embarrassing, and reflect poorly on our entire community,” said Bradley.

“I want to be clear: I completely condemn the Councillor’s conduct in regard to this matter. This behaviour is not becoming of a Regional Councillor, nor is it the type of conduct the public expects and deserves from an elected official.”

This isn’t the first time Bradley has spoken out about Bylsma, who attended and spoke at an anti-lockdown rally in St. Catharines earlier this year.

READ MORE: Dave Bylsma loses seat on West Lincoln’s emergency operations centre