When Tim Hudak and the Ontario PC Caucus stood against the Dalton McGuinty budget last week, we did so because the budget puts Ontario on a collision course with a deficit of $30 billion per year.

 The provincial government is currently spending about $1.8 million more per hour than it takes in through revenue. The provincial debt costs about $10.6 billion per year in interest, which makes debt re-payment the third-highest expenditure category in the budget. (After healthcare and education.) The path we are following will lead to an accumulated debt of  $411 billion. Clearly, this debt is not sustainable. When interest costs go up, it is a bad time to be in debt.

 We took a stand against the budget because we are concerned about the future of our province. Ontario can only lead again when our economy is strong and the budget is balanced. We are confident that the majority of Ontarians share this view.

 Two days after the budget vote, bond rating agency Standard & Poor’s validated the stand taken by the Official Opposition when it reported that it was downgrading Ontario’s debt outlook to “negative” from “stable.” This is clearly a warning light on the dashboard of the McGuinty government. It means a full-fledged downgrade of Ontario’s credit rating is possible. When that happens, even more tax dollars would be spent on interest payments.

 Last Thursday, Moody’s Investment Services downgraded Ontario’s credit rating from Aa1 to Aa2. Moody’s said this was due to significant risks in Ontario’s ability to stabilize and then reverse debt accumulation. Reductions in the provincial credit rating generally lead to higher interest rates on Ontario’s debt. Every one per cent increase in interest rates will cost our province an additional $500 million per year in interest.

 The McGuinty government has not listened to economist Don Drummond. It has not listened to Ontario families, to business leaders, or to members of the Official Opposition. It remains to be seen whether it will pay any attention to the downgrades from Moody’s or Standard & Poor’s. Clearly, we need to take Ontario down a different path.

Legislature Agrees to Alzheimer Advisory Council

All three parties in the Ontario Legislature worked together last week in support of a private member’s bill establishing the Alzheimer Advisory Council. The Council would make recommendations to the provincial government on topics such as: raising public awareness; access to care; research on treatment/prevention; and workplace policies to assist people serving as informal caregivers.   

In my view, one of the key achievements in establishing the Council is the recognition of the need to support family members and friends who are often involved in the care of persons with dementia. Public awareness as well as research into treatment, causes and prevention is also important as we look to the future, when the number of persons with dementia is expected to grow.

 Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia in Canada.  In 2011, approximately 181,000 Ontarians were living with Alzheimer’s and other related dementias. Within a decade, this number is expected to increase by 50 per cent.

Last week’s private member’s bill was introduced by MPPs Christine Elliott, of the PCs; Donna Cansfield, of the Liberals, and Cheri DiNovo of the NDP. I was pleased to support this initiative.

 Province May Extend Limited Exemptions
On Driver Distraction Legislation

The Province of Ontario plans to extend the exemption from distracted driver legislation that currently applies to individuals such as licenced amateur radio operators and commercial drivers using two-way radios. Regulations to allow a five-year extension have been tabled for public comment and can be viewed on the Service Ontario regulatory web site located at www.ontariocanada.com/registry/ . The deadline for comments is May 30, 2012. The prohibition against hand-held communication and entertainment devices in vehicles came into force in Ontario October 26, 2009. At that time, there was a three-year exemption for two-way radio technology that continues to be used in business and also for amateur radio operators. A five-year exemption would give more time for hands-free devices to be developed and used in areas that are currently exempt.

Ten Millionth Tree Planted on Earth Day

I would like to congratulate the many individuals and organizations who undertook Earth Day projects in Durham Riding and across Ontario. The Province of Ontario celebrated Earth Day April 22 by planting the ten-millionth tree under its 50 Million Tree Program. This initiative is part of the United Nations “Billion Tree Campaign” to clean the air and promote a greener future. Information on programs that encourage Ontario property owners to plant trees can be found at www.treesontario.ca.

 May is a Month for Awareness and Education

Here are just a few of the agencies and organizations for whom May has been declared a special awareness month. Please support the organizations and volunteers who make Ontario a better place in which to live, to work, and to raise a family

May is: Community Living Month, MS Awareness Month, Museum Month, Speech and Hearing Awareness Month, National Asthma Awareness Month, Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, Medic Alert Month, Sexual Abuse/Assault Prevention Month; National Asthma Awareness Month, Red Shield Month (Salvation Army)

Awareness Weeks: May 7 – 11, Education Week; May 7 – 13, Nursing Week; and May 7-13, Mental Health Week.

As this column is being written, it looks like The McGuinty Government and New Democrat MPPs may reach a deal to pass the provincial budget. Look for the vote to be taken in the Ontario Legislature on Tuesday, April 24.

 Clearly, Ontarians do not want an election seven months after the last election. At the same time, Ontario needs a budget that creates good, private-sector jobs and builds a stronger economy. So far, we haven’t seen that.

 With over half a million people unemployed, the highest commercial energy rates in Canada, and an annual $11 billion red tape burden on businesses, it should be no surprise that Ontario lags behind most of Canada in terms of job creation. We can’t possibly expect our job market to grow any faster this year, when the McGuinty government is cancelling tax cuts for job creators, doubling down on unsustainable subsidies for wind and solar producers and scaring off investment with an increasing deficit and debt. Our unemployment rate has been above the national average for 63 straight months. This started well before the 2008 market crisis.

 Ontario needs a new direction and a real plan to grow our economy and boost job creation. Of all its failures, the absence of a jobs plan is the McGuinty budget’s most glaring flaw. Events from the past month since the budget was first tabled have confirmed the Official Opposition’s stance against the budget. No amount of minor tinkering can fix it. The budget needs a total overhaul that will ensure it is in touch with the real values of Ontario’s citizens and job creators. Ontario’s PC Caucus is focused on the long-term sustainability of our economy – starting with a real jobs plan to give hope to this province’s near-600,000 unemployed men and women. Wellington Halton Hills MPP Ted Arnott has introduced a motion calling on the provincial government to create a new line item in future budgets committing to a payment on the principal of the provincial debt in the amount of at least 2.5% in each fiscal year.

 Premier McGuinty and New Democrat MPPs are not willing to proceed with a budget overhaul. At the time of writing this column, they’re ready to settle for a shockingly weak response to a jobs and fiscal crisis.

 I hope this explains why I cannot support the budget on April 24.

Agri-Food Exports Reach Nearly $10 Billion

In 2011, Ontario’s agri-food exports set a record of nearly $10 billion. The success of Ontario’s agri-businesses in establishing strong export opportunities is a tribute to the farm community. Through innovation, the pursuit of excellence, and a lot of hard work, Ontario farmers continue to be leaders in the provincial economy. Ontario farms also have the advantage of building on many generations of experience and expertise. This blend of a farming culture and new innovations will continue to be a winning combination. Many of the farms and processing operations that have contributed to Ontario’s success are located right here in Durham Riding. As local farmers begin another busy season, we can take pride in their achievements not only in feeding our immediate neighbours, but in growing and processing food for the whole world. Don’t forget Ontario’s local Farmer’s Markets this spring and summer. Remember that Farmers Feed Cities.

 Government May Merge Electricity Agencies

The McGuinty government claimed last week that it will merge the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) and the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) into a single organization. Unfortunately, the merging of two bureaucracies into one does not get to the root of the problem. The Ontario Power Authority is the agency behind Ontario’s expensive Green Energy Act. As you may recall, Opposition MPPs have called for this agency to be dismantled and for all of the government’s 630 agencies, boards and commissions to undergo a thorough review of exactly what value they deliver in return for our tax dollars. Agencies that are doing their job should continue. The rest must be either scrapped or fixed.

 Organ Donor Registration Increasing In Durham

In June of 2011, I was pleased to join MPPs Frank Klees and Norm Miller in the MPP Challenge to increase registrations of organ and tissue donors. Recent statistics on donor registration in Durham Region indicate the number of potential donors is growing, although we still have a long way to go. As of September 30, 2011, there were 497,566 healthcard holders age 16 and over in the eight municipalities making up the Regional Municipality of Durham. Of that number, 100,151 were registered donors. That represents 20.1% of the potential donors. This is a modest increase from March of 2010, when 17% of healthcard holders were registered. A donor registration rate of one-fifth is good news. However, compared to communities such as Muskoka Parry Sound, with a registration rate of 36%, we can do better. A Private Member’s Bill introduced by MPP Rob Milligan calls for a person renewing their health card or driver’s licence to complete a declaration indicating whether or not that person consents to be an organ donor.

 Retirement Homes Must Apply for Licences

Starting this month, Ontario’s retirement homes must apply to the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority for licences. New rules governing retirement homes cover protection for residents through a Resident’s Bill of Rights, along with staff training on fire prevention and safety, prevention of abuse, and “whistle-blowing” protection for staff. All licence applications must be submitted by the beginning of July, 2012.  More information is available online at the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority (http://www.rhra.ca)

I would like to thank local business leaders for joining the Economic Round Table held in Ajax last week and led by Ontario’s PC Finance Critic, MPP Peter Shurman.

Ontario has had higher unemployment than the national average for over five years, with close to 600,000 Ontarians currently unemployed. In addition, the McGuinty government is on track to increase the Ontario deficit to $30 billion unless decisive action is taken to control spending, increase accountability, and offer competitive tax rates. It is time that the McGuinty government took advice from the business sector, where private-sector jobs are created.

 Tim Hudak, as Leader of the Official Opposition, has initiated a comprehensive series of reforms that would create jobs and new investment opportunities in Ontario. Some of these include:

• Reducing government regulation and red-tape for small businesses;
• Ensuring competitive energy prices for all businesses;
• Competitive business taxes to create a business investment environment;
• Balancing the budget by reducing the size and cost of government, freeing up money for education, health care and infrastructure;
• Modernizing our apprenticeships system to create 200,000 skilled trades jobs;
• Decreasing auto insurance rates by cracking down on auto insurance fraud.

The consultation must continue if we are to ensure Ontario. Your input is always welcome. I can be reached at 905-697-1501 or 1-800-661-2433 and by e-mail at john.otooleco@pc.ola.org . I need your input and suggestions on jobs and the economy.

 Diabetes Association is Here to Help

Over one million Ontarians have been diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. That number is expected to increase to almost 2 million in 10 years. The estimated economic burden of diabetes in Ontario was $4.9 billion in 2010 and that number will also grow as the number of cases increases.

 The good news is that the risk for diabetes can be decreased through education and awareness, physical activity, nutrition, maintaining a healthy weight, lifestyle management, controlling blood pressure and taking medication as prescribed by your doctor. Province-wide, the Canadian Diabetes Association recommends a three-pronged approach to responding to diabetes. The strategy includes prevention, targeting at-risk members of the population, and the prevention of diabetes complications. More information is available online at www.diabetes.ca .

Applications Welcome for Student Page Program

Each year, students in grades seven and eight are selected from across Ontario to serve as Parliamentary Pages in the Ontario Legislature. They work as messengers in the Provincial Parliament as well as performing many helpful duties in the Legislative Chamber for MPPs. This is a great learning experience, especially for students who may be interested in fields such as politics, law, and the public service. Applications must be requested directly from the Page Program. The next deadline for applications to the fall session of the House is June 15. More information is available by e-mailing the Legislative Assembly of Ontario at page_program@ontla.ola.org or calling (416) 325-7457 to request an application. Applications must be made directly to the Parliamentary Page Program.

 Forestry Firefighting Season Starts in April

April to October is forest fire season in Ontario. Across the province, an average of more than 1,300 wildfires burn each year, with about half of them set by people. The 2011 forest fire season recorded significantly more fires in Ontario than 2010, and a much larger area was affected. As of October 31 last year, a total of 1,330 forest fires were recorded. These affected 632,533 hectares, which was the largest area to be burned by forest fires over the past 50 years. Ontario has 750 highly-trained FireRangers plus a further 320 firefighters from the private sector available for fighting forest fires. Equipment includes 14 water bombers, 13 helicopters and 12 fire detection aircraft.  Keep in mind that anyone who starts a fire outdoors must take all necessary steps to tend the fire, keep it under control, and extinguish it before leaving the site. More information on forest fire prevention and related topics is available online at the Ministry of Natural Resources web site, www.mnr.gov.on.ca  .

 Fire Marshal Holds Safety Consultation
Ontario’s Fire Marshal will conduct a technical consultation to identify fire safety improvements in residences for seniors, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable Ontarians. This follows recent public consultation about fire safety at residences for vulnerable individuals. Fire services, municipalities, owners and operators of residents for vulnerable persons, and advocacy groups were asked to comment on safety measures for these facilities. This next step in the process will look into key areas identified in the public consultation. Some of these include: enhanced inspections; training for owners/operators and staff; and installation of fire safety retrofits such as automatic sprinklers.  There are approximately 700 retirement homes, 400 long-term care facilities and 3,000 other homes that house vulnerable residents.

 Trillium Grants Build Stronger Communities

I would like to congratulate the Bonner Boys Community Club in Uxbridge for their successful application for $149,700 to build a new splashpad and accessible walkway that will enhance recreational opportunities for children and families in Uxbridge. The goal of the Ontario Trillium Foundation is to strengthen the capacity of the voluntary sector through investments in community-based initiatives. The Uxbridge project was among 21 announced for Durham Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge. The next deadline for Trillium Foundation applications is July 1. More information is available online at www.trilliumfoundation.org  .

Tim Hudak and the Ontario PC Caucus have begun a “For Jobs and Our Economy Tour” to meet with business people across Ontario and get ideas for kick-starting job creation.

With a lack of a jobs plan in the McGuinty budget, it is clear that Ontario business leaders will have to take up the challenge themselves. We’re holding regional roundtable meetings with business leaders to help build our plan for private sector job growth.

Our plan will include:

• Balancing the budget to give businesses confidence that the province can afford the things businesses need to expand, invest and create jobs – like lower taxes and good infrastructure.
• Eliminating failed energy experiments and subsidies that are driving up the cost of energy.
• Enacting a pro-jobs policy for resource development in Northern Ontario..
• Ensuring that regulations are flexible and responsive to the needs of businesses, and
• Creating more skilled trades jobs by modernizing the apprenticeship system.

Dalton McGuinty’s budget was a surprisingly weak response to a looming $30 billion deficit. Opposition Leader Tim Hudak said last week that: “Failing to come to grips with deficits and debt puts a further damper on job creation because it erodes business confidence in Ontario as a good place to invest, expand and create jobs.”

The McGuinty government is deterring job creation by failing to proceed with initiatives to make business taxes more competitive. This will take $1.5 billion out of the economy over three years, at a time when businesses need help the most. Ontario needs a stronger business plan.

Tim Hudak stressed that government must share in confronting the challenge. Businesses know that highly-indebted jurisdictions like Ontario can’t afford things like low business taxes and good infrastructure, which are the key factors that attract investment, expansion and job creation.

I would like to thank all those who have taken the time to call, write, or speak with me directly regarding the McGuinty budget. I can be reached by e-mail at john.otooleco@pc.ola.org and by telephone at 1-800-697-1501 and (905) 697-1501. Please stay in touch.

Ministry Offers Tips on Dealing with Coyotes

Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources has a number of fact sheets available for property owners on how to tackle coyote problems. Some of the advice from the MNR includes the following: Lock up garbage and minimize anything that might attract coyotes to your property; Use deterrents such as motion sensitive lighting and fences; Keep cats indoors and do not allow pets to roam from home; Never attempt to “tame”, approach or feed coyotes. The Ministry notes that landowners may humanely kill or trap coyotes that are damaging their property. All relevant firearm regulations and bylaws must be followed.  Coyotes migrated to Ontario from the west over 100 years ago and can now be found in all of Ontario, although they are more common in agricultural areas of southern Ontario and urban areas. They are less likely to thrive in the far north because the habitat is different, and thy must compete with wolves. More information is available online at www.ontario.ca/livingwithwildlife. This web site is also a resource for property owners encountering many other types of wildlife, ranging from raccoons to bears.

Cycle Safely This Spring

With the return of warm weather, more Ontarians will be bringing out their bicycles for fitness, fun, and transportation. The Ontario Ministry of Transportation reminds cyclists that, if you are under 18, you must wear a helmet. Helmets are also strongly recommended for cyclists over 18. Make sure the helmet is the right size and that it is properly adjusted. Lights and reflectors are also a requirement. For travelling at night, a white light mounted on the front of your bicycle and a red reflector on the back is required. You also need a bell or horn, plus reflective tape. Remember also to follow your “ABCs” when checking to ensure your bike is safe and roadworthy. These letters stand for: air in your tires, brake and handlebar inspection and also an inspection of the crank and chain. Complete information on safe cycling and advice for young cyclists is available online at www.mto.gov.on.ca

MPP’s Provincial Debt Repayment Resolution Gains Ground

Later this month, the Ontario Legislature is expected to debate a resolution calling for the government to start paying down its debt the moment the budget is balanced. The resolution from MPP Ted Arnott would automatically create a priority in the provincial budget for a commitment to debt repayment. The resolution calls for the debt reduction payment to be at least 2.5 per cent of the program spending for the fiscal year. This policy has the support of the Canadian Taxpayers’ Federation. Unfortunately, the McGuinty government is ignoring the warning from economist Don Drummond’s report in which a deficit of $30 billion is predicted if we continue on the government’s current course. If the province can pull itself out of the deficit spiral, then it needs to get to work on tackling the debt and damage resulting from years of consecutive deficits. Look for the debt reduction motion to be debated April 19.

There’s nothing in the McGuinty government’s budget to give hope to Ontario’s 600,000 unemployed. That’s because, aside from setting up an advisory committee, the budget fails unemployed Ontarians by offering no jobs plan. In fact, the budget actually makes things worse for job creators because the McGuinty government has cancelled the next round of business tax reductions. Continuing the plan for a more competitive corporate tax rate would have created opportunities for jobs and investment.

Ontario’s 2012 budget also does little to steer our province away from a massive, $30 billion deficit and a looming $411 billion debt. Spending is up $2 billion – not down – in the 2012 budget. In fact, expenditures have hit a record of $26.4 billion. The budget proposes a deficit of $15.2 billion, which means the deficit is the same size as it was last year. In fact, the Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation pointed out that Ontario is once again running a bigger deficit than all the other provinces put together.

In my view, the budget offers very little to reduce the size and cost of government through long-term, structural change in the way government operates and spends. By failing to ensure value for money and accountability to taxpayers, the budget has done nothing to rein in runaway spending. Indeed it is lack of accountability at agencies such as eHealth and ORNGE ambulance services that have driven up costs in Dalton McGuinty’s Ontario and contributed substantially to the record deficit. There must be more respect for taxpayers’ money.

The following are a few items from the budget that may be of interest.

• Servicing Ontario’s debt is the government’s third largest annual expense, behind health care and education at a cost of $10 billion.
• Ontario’s agriculture budget will be reduced by 9%, or $110.6 million. Economist Don Drummond recommended a 2.4% reduction. The government is cutting $39.7 million from risk management programs that provide support to farmers.

• The Ontario Clean Energy Benefit (OECB) will not be available to customers using more than 3,000 kWh per month. This will hurt small business.
• Social assistance rates will be frozen this year. The increase to the Ontario Child Benefit will be delayed. It increases by $100 in the next budget year.
• The Province is spending about $1.8 million each and every hour more than it takes in as revenue.

Please remember that the budget still has to be passed by the Ontario Legislature. I would like to thank the many citizens who attended my post-budget forums in Bowmanville and Port Perry last week. Your comments are always welcome. I can be reached at (905) 697-1501 or 1-800-661-2433 and by e-mail at john.otooleco@pc.ola.org.

Opposition’s Bill 14 Has Better Anti-bullying Initiatives

I would like to thank the many citizens who called or wrote regarding concerns on the McGuinty government’s Bill 13. In my view, Bill 14, which was introduced by former Education Minister, MPP Elizabeth Witmer, is a more comprehensive anti-bullying bill that focuses on prevention, accountability and awareness. The Official Opposition tried to sit down and work with the McGuinty government to negotiate a merged bill that would make our schools the safest possible place for Ontario’s children to learn. Unfortunately, the McGuinty government refused to compromise and insists on moving forward unilaterally with their own Bill. We believe in tackling bullying directly by looking at four critical areas. These are: reporting/investigation, accountability of school officials and boards to the Ministry; education and public awareness to prevent bullying and remedial education for bullies to teach them that their behaviour is wrong. The definition of bullying in our bill is far more comprehensive and focuses on the behaviour of the bully as well as the impact on victim. The Liberal government’s Bill 13 does not do this at all. In the House last week, we moved forward with our own bill because it is more thorough and focuses on all forms of bullying. I am pleased to report the Legislature approved Bill 14 in second reading and referred it to a committee for further review. I hope the McGuinty government will use our legislation to improve Bill 13 or at least use our Bill to correct the deficiencies in Bill 13.

More Details on Ornge Surface at Committee

Ontario’s Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, along with Ministry of Health officials were questioned about the ORNGE air ambulance scandal at a meeting of the Public Accounts Committee. Health Minister Deb Matthews told the committee last week that, as a result of concerns raised from the Auditor General’s ongoing audit at Ornge, the Ministry began looking at what options it had to investigate and hold Ornge to account. At that time, it came to light that because Ornge was a federally incorporated charity, the provincial government faced a number of limitations in terms of appointing a supervisor or make changes in the performance agreement. In my view, there is still no satisfactory explanation as to why the provincial government allowed itself to be placed in a position of being unable to control and supervise one of its agencies when it is all provincial health dollars that are being spent. While the public accounts committee may be helpful in shining more light on what went wrong, it cannot take the place of a select committee representing all parties. The formation of such a committee is supported by the majority of the Ontario Legislature. This committee should be allowed to proceed.

Ontario Sunshine List Grows by 10%

The list of Ontario public servants earning in excess of $100,000 was released March 23 and revealed that the ranks of the $100,000 Club grew by about 10 per cent in 2011. The latest Sunshine List shows that nearly 79,000 workers made six-figure salaries in 2011. The complete list is at the Ontario Ministry of Finance web site. (www.fin.gov.on.ca)

Holt Rd. Hwy. 401 Interchange Study Under Way

Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation is conducting a preliminary design study for replacement of the Highway 401/Holt Rd. interchange. The work will include configuration of a new or existing alignment plus improvements to Holt Rd. and the South Service Rd. Two Public Information Centres (PICs) will be held to seek input from interested parties. The first PIC is expected to be held this spring. An Official Notice of this study has appeared in local newspapers.

Mr. John O’Toole: I rise today to welcome the Ontario Association of Optometrists, OAO. They are hosting an advocacy day here at Queen’s Park.

Since 1909, the OAO has been assisting optometrists across the province, providing the highest standard of eye care and vision care. They have worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the importance of regular eye exams and good eye health through their focus on advocacy, community and education.

I want to also applaud the OAO for their focus on, and support for, children’s vision through the Eye See … Eye Learn program. The program recognizes the important link between eye health and learning. If children can’t see the board or read the book in front of them, they will face great difficulties in learning. The program helps parents get their children proper eye exams before entering grade 1, and access to glasses if needed.

I want to issue a warm welcome to Dr. Sheldon Salaba, president of OAO, and to a former colleague of ours, a member of the Legislature and past Minister of Health, the Honourable Cam Jackson, who now serves as CEO of OAO.

Shortly, I will be introducing a private member’s bill in support of optometrists across Ontario. If passed, my bill would give optometrist corporations the same opportunities that are available to other health professional corporations. It will allow family members to partner in small business to allow them non-voting shares.

I welcome the OAO to the Legislature today and hope my colleagues will join me in supporting eye care professionals across Ontario

 March 27, 2012

BUDGET SPENDING UNRESTRAINED, NO JOBS PLAN: DURHAM MPPs

News

QUEEN’S PARK – Durham Region MPPs Christine Elliott, Jerry Ouellette and John O’Toole said Tuesday’s surprisingly weak budget fails to make the structural changes necessary in the way government operates and spends to avoid a $30 billion deficit. The MPPs added that the budget throws up barriers to private sector job creation – so it cannot be supported.

The budget puts up roadblocks to the very economic growth its assumptions are pinned on. In particular, the cancellation of the business tax cuts.

In contrast, PC Leader Tim Hudak has set out a “stress test” to provide principled opposition with clear criteria for judging everything the government does. The budget does far too little to reduce the size and cost of government through long-term, structural change to the way government operates and spends. The budget works against contributing to private sector job creation with higher taxes on businesses that will further erode confidence in Ontario as a place to invest and create jobs, and because it does nothing to rein in runaway spending, the budget fails to ensure value for money and accountability for taxpayers.

Quotes

“This is the time for tough and responsible fiscal management, yet today’s budget is a weak and disappointing response to Ontario’s jobs and spending crisis.”  John O’Toole, MPP (Durham)

“We cannot support a budget that has no substantive provisions to stimulate our economy and create the private sector jobs we so badly need. In fact, the cancellation of the corporate tax cut will make Ontario’s jobs crisis worse because businesses will look to other jurisdictions with more competitive tax rates.” Christine Elliott, MPP (Whitby-Oshawa)

“This budget shows that the Premier does not grasp the seriousness of Ontario’s situation – having failed to move off the path toward a $30 billion deficit with his uncontrolled spending: Instead he has made long-term commitments to pet projects with no way to pay for them, while grabbing for short-term revenues through one-off asset sales and fee increases” Jerry Ouellette, MPP (Oshawa)

Quick Facts for the 2012 Budget:

• The budget deficit is now three times the size of all other provinces combined.
• The 2011 deficit actually increased over the previous year – and doesn’t decrease for another year.
• The budget proposes spending increases in 14 out of 24 Ministries.
• The budget presents no concrete action on the cost of public sector compensation – just more consultations.

-30-

Contact:

| Christine Elliott, MPP – Whitby-Oshawa | 905-430-1141 |

| John O’Toole, MPP – Durham | 905-431-1490 |

| Jerry Ouellette, MPP – Oshawa | 416-325-2147 |

“Clearly Inadequate.”

Those were the two words Ontario’s non-partisan financial auditor used in a headline describing the Ontario government’s oversight of the ORNGE ambulance service. Ontario’s fiscal watchdog, Auditor General Jim McCarter, said last week that: “The Ontario government has given ORNGE more than $700 million since 2006 to provide ambulance service in the province without monitoring how well ORNGE was doing its job.”

The Auditor General has confirmed concerns the Official Opposition raised over a year ago. He found that government funding to ORNGE for air ambulance service rose 20% in its first four full years of operation even though the number of patients transported by air actually dropped by 6% during that period. 

Here are two more findings from the ORNGE Report:

• In addition to the $700 million provided by the Ministry, Ornge borrowed almost $300 million primar­ily to finance the purchase of helicopters and airplanes and its new head office. Although Ornge’s own analysis indicated nine helicopters and six airplanes were needed, Ornge purchased 12 new helicopters and 10 new airplanes. Ornge is repaying this debt using provincial funding it gets to provide ambulance services.
• One of Ornge’s subsidiary companies bought a building for $15 million to be used as Ornge’s head office and then leased it back to Ornge at a rate that an independent appraiser retained by the Audi­tor General said was 40% higher than fair-market rent.

In addition to the Auditor General’s report tabled March 21, an investigation by the Ontario Provincial Police is under way. However, there is more to be done.

The majority of MPPs have demanded an all-party committee to investigate ORNGE. This committee was approved by a vote in the House, and the committee must be allowed to get down to work. In addition, Ontario’s Health Minister must resign. The failure of the McGuinty government to hold a public hearing and fire the responsible Minister shows the same lack of accountability that created the ORNGE scandal in the first place. The McGuinty government’s oversight of ORNGE was “clearly inadequate.” And so are its lukewarm efforts to get to the bottom of this scandal. To regain the trust of the people of Ontario, the government must at least apologize.

The Auditor General’s full report on ORNGE is posted online at: www.auditor.on.ca

Standing up for the Horse Racing Industry

In the Ontario Legislature last week, members of the Official Opposition continued to fight the McGuinty government’s plan to end the successful partnership between slots/racetracks, the province, the horse industry and municipalities. In Question Period, through Members’ Statements and the tabling of petitions from across Ontario, we are reminding this government that the horse racing industry employs approximately 60,000 people, creates $1.5 billion in wages and $2 billion in expenditures annually. In other words, this is an industry that contributes $260 million in direct tax revenue and billions of dollars towards overall economic activity. There is no reason why the McGuinty government should end a partnership that has provided value for money to the Ontario economy and to Ontario’s taxpayers. I appreciate the opportunity to speak with Durham Riding residents on this issue and to visit local farms. Clearly, the McGuinty government does not understand the devastating impact its decision will have on family farms and the rural economy of Ontario. I have argued that there must be a fair and open discussion with the people and organizations involved in this industry.

Public Comments Invited for One-Call Bill

The following is your invitation to comment on legislation establishing a not-for-profit, single point-of-contact call centre for all underground utility location services in Ontario. Those interested in making a presentation to a committee of the Legislature on this legislation should contact the Clerk of the Standing Committee on General Government by noon on March 29, 2012.  The Clerk can be reached by phone at 416-325-3515. As with all legislation before the House, your input is always welcome. I may be reached by telephone at 1-800-661-2433 or (905) 697-1501 and by e-mail at john.otooleco@pc.ola.org. The legislation to create a single call centre for all underground utility location services in Ontario passed another major hurdle in the Ontario Legislature when it was scheduled for public hearings before a standing Committee April 18th and April 23. Members of the public will have the opportunity to provide input on both dates before the committee makes its recommendations to the Legislative Assembly. I support a single call centre because it will improve safety for workers and members of the general public while minimizing business disruptions, protecting the environment and reducing the need for responses from emergency service agencies. Bill 8 is the very first bi-partisan bill to be called before committee in Ontario’s current session of parliament. The legislation has been introduced by PC MPP Bob Bailey and NDP MPP Paul Miller.

Awards for Ontario’s Outstanding Volunteers

Volunteers from across Durham Region will be honoured with Ontario Volunteer Service Awards on April 16 and April 17 in Oshawa’s General Sikorski Hall. These awards recognize thousands of volunteers of all ages across the province for years of continuous service to a single organization. Individuals are recognized for five, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50 and 60 or more years of service. Youth are recognized for two or more years of service. Every year, an estimated five million Ontarians volunteer in their communities at 46,000 not-for-profit organizations across the province. They contribute more than 800 million annual volunteer hours. It has been my honour for the past few years to attend these volunteer awards ceremonies and personally thank my constituents for making our communities better.

March 22, 2012

NEWS – QUEEN’S PARK – Today, Durham MPP John O’Toole supported a motion to begin the process of overhauling the Aggregate Resources Act (ARA). Generally, the ARA legislation regulates and licenses aggregate operations in the province.

“Commercial fill continues to plague Durham municipalities,” said Mr. O’Toole. “I will be pushing for this review to include measures to regulate commercial fill operations.”

Commercial fill operations have been appearing across Durham Region, most often being located in old or abandoned gravel pits. Concerns remain about the lack of oversight for these operations and the potential harm that may be cause to groundwater sources and the surrounding environment.

The motion passed by the Legislature read:

“That the Standing Committee on General Government review the Aggregate Resources Act and report to the House its observations and recommendations with respect to strengthening the Act. In developing such recommendations, the committee’s focus shall include, but not be limited to, the following areas: the Act’s consultation process; how siting, operations, and rehabilitation are addressed in the Act; best practices and new developments in the industry; fees/royalties; and aggregate resource development and protection, including conservation/recycling.”

Mr. O’Toole added: “It has been almost two years since I first raised the issues surrounding commercial fill in the Legislature. I look forward to bringing the concerns of Durham residents about clean water and soil to this review process.”

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For further information please contact:

John O’Toole, MPP – Durham (905) 697-1501 / 1-800-661-2433

The McGuinty government has announced that Ontario’s 2012 -13 provincial budget will be tabled in the House on Tuesday, March 27. That’s just two days before the federal budget that will be delivered in Ottawa Thursday, March 29.

As you will know, budget details are traditionally a closely-guarded secret. That being said, the McGuinty government has given a few broad hints concerning what their approach to the 2012-2013 budget will be. The early announcement of an increase in driver’s licence fees and vehicle registration fees suggests the government will use increased fees as a way to shore up its revenue.

The McGuinty government announced it would be increasing car license plate renewals to $98 over the next three years. This $98 fee equates to a 33 per cent increase over the $74 currently charged in southern Ontario. The rate will rise to $82 on Sept. 1, followed by subsequent increases until the price is $98 in 2015. Fees for driver’s licenses, driver exam fees, trailer permits, commercial and farm plates will all also increase. These are essentially tax increases by another name. Recent announcements from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission suggest that casinos and lotteries will be another source of revenue for the McGuinty government.

Despite the fact that Premier McGuinty commissioned a report from leading economist, Don Drummond, the McGuinty government has shown a lukewarm reaction to the majority of Drummond Report findings. It remains to be seen whether the Drummond recommendations for fiscal reform will make their way into the budget.

Keep in mind the fact that Ontario’s budget deficit currently stands at about $16 billion. This annual deficit will grow to $30 billion in about five years unless something is done to control spending while promoting efficiency and accountability in all government departments and government agencies. Likewise, the Ontario debt will grow to more than $400 billion if action is not taken to bring spending under control. Your suggestions for affordability, efficiency and accountability government are always welcome. I may be reached at 905-697-1501 or 1-800-661-2433 and by e-mail at john.otooleco@pc.ola.org.

POST-BUDGET FORUMS

You’re invited to my post-budget forums offering commentary and responses to questions about the 2012 Ontario budget. The first forum will be held Wednesday, March 28, at Zante’s Restaurant in Bowmanville (36 King St. E.), commencing at 8 a.m. The second forum is taking place Friday, March 30, at Jester’s Court in Port Perry at 8 a.m. (279 Queen St.) Everyone is welcome. You can RSVP at (905) 697-1501 or 1-800-661-2433.

Student Summer Job Season Begins

The Province of Ontario offers help to students looking for summer jobs and to employers looking to hire workers this summer. Through Ontario’s summer jobs strategy, a $2-per-hour hiring incentive is available. This incentive applies to private, not-for-profit or broader public sector employers offering a summer job in Ontario to students age 15 to 30 who are returning to school in the fall.

Examples of programs available to students this year include: summer employment in the provincial public service, the Ontario Stewardship Rangers, the Ontario Ranger Program, and the aboriginal youth work exchange program and summer employment for law students. Through the Summer Company program, qualified students can run their own summer company, receiving support from business mentors in the community. Participating students earn funds to start their company as well as an honorarium to supplement the profits that their summer company will earn. Information about student summer jobs is available online at the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities web site, www.tcu.gov.on.ca .

Bill 39 Would Protect Students from Concussions

New legislation has been introduced to help protect students in school sports and physical education classes from the potentially serious effects of concussions. Bill 39 is a reaction to injuries sustained by celebrities like Sidney Crosby who have suffered serious head injuries. Bill 39, if passed, would ensure students who have concussions are not risking further complications by returning to sports or the classroom too soon.   

The legislation is also intended to provide information for parents, teachers and school staff while building awareness about the seriousness of concussions. Under the Bill, a committee would be established to provide advice on concussion prevention, identification, and management in Ontario schools.

In the year 2010-11, a total of 19,880 Ontario residents visited an emergency room because of concussion. About 38 per cent of these patients were children. Concussion symptoms can appear immediately or several hours after the injury. Symptoms can last from days to months.

PC Leader Calls for One Law for All in Caledonia

In a visit to Caledonia recently, Opposition Leader Tim Hudak called on Premier Dalton McGuinty to acknowledge the ongoing injustices and to seek a solution that enforces the rule of law.
 
In his visit, the PC leader met local residents who have been directly affected by the occupation for the last six years. He said that what has been allowed to happen in Caledonia is wrong. After six years, Premier Dalton McGuinty has refused to admit, at a bare minimum, that an illegal occupation is taking place.
 
I agree with Tim Hudak’s observation that frontline police officers should have the full support of political leaders to do their jobs and enforce the rule of law. Otherwise, we’re putting police in an impossible situation. Caledonia sets a dangerous precedent. One of the fundamental principles that make Canada a great country is that we are all equal under the rule of law. This principle must be upheld.