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February 26, 2024

43rd Parliament, 1st Session

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Hansard Transcripts

Votes and Proceedings

Orders and Notices

Hansard Transcript 2024-Feb-26 (PDF)

L125 - Mon 26 Feb 2024 / Lun 26 fév 2024

LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF ONTARIO

ASSEMBLÉE LÉGISLATIVE DE L’ONTARIO

Monday 26 February 2024 Lundi 26 février 2024

Members’ Statements

Cordelia Clarke Julien

Coldest Night of the Year

International Women’s Day

Health care workers

Zeda Ali / Tajon Buchanan

Doctor shortage

Bob Hayward

Community organizations

Riding of Etobicoke–Lakeshore

Housing

Introduction of Visitors

Question Period

Government accountability

University and college funding

Justice system

Public transit

Natural gas rates

Manufacturing sector

Provincial schools

Justice system

Education

Forest firefighting

Northern agri-food industry

Child care

Environmental assessments

Public health

Government services for Indigenous communities

Notices of dissatisfaction

Deferred Votes

Northern Health Travel Grant Advisory Committee Act, 2024 / Loi de 2024 sur le Comité consultatif des subventions aux résidents du Nord de l’Ontario pour frais de transport à des fins médicales

Introduction of Government Bills

Strengthening Accountability and Student Supports Act, 2024 / Loi de 2024 pour renforcer la responsabilisation et les mesures de soutien aux étudiants

Introduction of Bills

Orthodox Christian Week Act, 2024 / Loi de 2024 sur la Semaine des chrétiens orthodoxes

Stormwater Flood Prevention Act, 2024 / Loi de 2024 sur la prévention des inondations dues aux eaux pluviales

Motions

House sittings

Petitions

Tuition

Taxation

Tuition

Tuition

Social assistance

Tuition

Land use planning

Tuition

Energy policies

Orders of the Day

Keeping Energy Costs Down Act, 2024 / Loi de 2024 visant à maintenir la facture énergétique à un niveau abordable

The House met at 1015.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Good morning. Let us pray.

Prayers.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I want to acknowledge that we are meeting on lands traditionally inhabited by Indigenous peoples. We pay our respects to the many Indigenous nations who’ve gathered here and continue to gather here, including the Mississaugas of the Credit. Meegwetch.

Members’ Statements

Cordelia Clarke Julien

Cynthia Davis, Lakeridge Health president and chief executive officer, rightly describes this achievement as a tremendous accomplishment and a wonderful moment for Lakeridge Health. Cordelia’s dedication has played a pivotal role in helping Lakeridge Health achieve its vision of “One System, Best Health.”

As we look forward to the 2024 edition of the biennial book, which features all of the 100 honorees, let me quote Cordelia: “My advice to Black women would be to never diminish the light within you, as that is what makes you great. So when someone tells you that ‘You are too much,’ just know that your light is shining bright, and they just need to get a pair of sunglasses.”

Coldest Night of the Year

Mr. Wayne Gates: This past Saturday, I attended the Coldest Night of the Year in my community of Niagara Falls. The Coldest Night of the Year is a fundraiser for Project Share, an organization that does incredible work in our community supporting food security, housing help and healthy living. On Saturday, they raised $65,000.

But their job is getting harder and harder. We know we have a cost-of-living crisis across the province of Ontario. In Niagara, 20%, or one in five households, are food insecure. Over 75,000 individuals in Niagara experience food insecurity.

When it comes to housing, a person earning minimum wage in the province of Ontario needs to work 81 hours to afford a two-bedroom rental.

We have several encampments throughout the region of Niagara of individuals experiencing homelessness. In this last fiscal year, Project Share served one in eight residents in Niagara Falls.

As a province, we must do more to tackle the affordability crisis. We must get government back in the business of building affordable housing and bring back rent controls, which this government took out. We must increase social assistance, end the practice of deeming and fund social services agencies appropriately. Finally, we must have the courage to take on corporate price gouging wherever we see it. By taking action, we can make life more affordable for the residents of Ontario.

International Women’s Day

Ms. Goldie Ghamari: Mr. Speaker, on Friday, March 8, I will be hosting my annual Carleton women’s day breakfast once again in Richmond.

International Women’s Day is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. Each year, this day serves as a powerful reminder of the progress made toward gender equality. It also serves to remind us of the work that still needs to be done.

The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is “Inspire Inclusion.” The campaign theme underscores the crucial role of inclusion in achieving gender equality. It calls for action to break down barriers, to challenge stereotypes and to create environments where all women are valued and respected. “Inspire Inclusion” encourages everyone to recognize the unique perspectives and contributions of women from all walks of life, including those from marginalized communities.

I cannot forget to give a shout-out to the Iranian women and the Iranian men supporting them who won the 2022 Heroes of the Year award from Time magazine. Standing up for women’s rights around the world has never been as important as it is today. That’s why events on International Women’s Day are so important. I truly hope all members get a chance to host or participate in an International Women’s Day event in their riding.

In closing, I will share these poignant words delivered by Gloria Steinem: “The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist, nor to any one organization, but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.”

As we say in Iran, “Zan, Zendegi, Azadi”—“Woman, Life, Freedom.”

Health care workers

Mr. Jeff Burch: Workers scored a major victory when this government was forced to repeal Bill 124, which suppressed public sector workers’ wages, after the courts ruled that it violated charter rights. The court stated, “Because of the act, organized public sector workers, many of whom are women, racialized” and “low-income earners, have lost the ability to negotiate for better compensation or even better work conditions that do not have a monetary value.”

Speaker, now, with our public health care in crisis, Ontarians must live with the consequences of Bill 124. In Niagara, we’ve lost after-hour emergency surgical services at the Welland hospital and reduced hours at the Port Colborne and Fort Erie urgent care centres. We have a shortage of beds, long wait times, frequent 911 crises in EMS, unacceptable off-loading delays and health care workers fleeing the sector.

I’ve been meeting with front-line health care workers, including PSWs, and was shocked when some of them told me they were still for fighting their $3-an-hour pandemic pay and pay equity—this despite huge pay increases for managers in the public sector.

After wasting an untold amount of public dollars fighting front-line workers in court, it’s time to start fixing the disaster Bill 124 created by ensuring health care workers are treated with dignity and receive fair, competitive compensation for their work.

Zeda Ali / Tajon Buchanan

Mr. Hardeep Singh Grewal: I’m honoured to rise today to talk about a few amazing, outstanding individuals from my community of Brampton East and Brampton in general. Speaker, I’m honoured to represent a community that’s full of so much diverse talent. Time and time again, Bramptonians showcase remarkable contributions in arts, culture and sport.

Today I would like to recognize the outstanding achievement of two great Bramptonians, Zeda Ali and Tajon Buchanan. Zeda Ali is a dedicated music teacher at Sunny View Middle School in Brampton East and will be heading to the Juno Awards on March 29, as she has been nominated for the MusiCounts Teacher of the Year Award. I’d like to extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Zeda for her outstanding achievement and well-deserved recognition.

Speaker, I would also like to recognize 24-year-old Tajon Buchanan. Tajon recently made history by becoming the first Canadian player signing with Serie A club Inter Milan in January. Tajon’s journey from starting soccer at the age of eight in Brampton to the international stage serves as a great example of talent and success.

Zeda and Tajon are a great example of individuals who contribute their talents to make Brampton a hub of creativity, diversity and excellence.

Bramptonians continue to shine and impact the world, leaving a legacy of achievement and inspiration for generations to come.

Once again, congratulations, Zeda and Tajon, on this well-deserved achievement. Good luck in all of your future endeavours.

Doctor shortage

Ms. Jessica Bell: We recently hosted a town hall in our riding, in the Chinatown area, and the top issue that came up was that people are losing their family doctors. If you are 75 years old and you don’t have a family doctor, then your health could be at risk. We decided to investigate the problem.

We did a review of the number of doctors in downtown Toronto who could provide service in Cantonese or Mandarin, on the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario website, and we discovered a very concerning fact: Of the 24 doctors operating in downtown Toronto, 80% of them have been practising for 43 years or more, which means that they are about to retire. And that is what we are hearing in our community. Five doctors have just retired, and there are two more who are about to retire. That means there are thousands of residents in Chinatown who have just lost their family doctor.

This is not an issue that is unique to Chinatown. We know that 2.2 million Ontarians do not have access to a family doctor, and that number is expected to double in just two years.

Our health care system depends on people having a primary care provider, or a family doctor. Residents should not have to go to the emergency room at Toronto Western just to get a prescription for antibiotics because there is nowhere else for them to go.

This is the message from Chinatown to Queen’s Park: Fix the family doctor shortage in Chinatown and across Ontario by investing in primary care.

Bob Hayward

Mr. Ernie Hardeman: I rise today to share the story of Bob Hayward, an Oxford local and Canadian motorsports legend. Over 60 years ago, Bob and his boat, Miss Supertest III, had a winning streak that is unmatched to this day.

Bob was born and raised on his family’s chicken farm in Embro, becoming interested in drag racing as a teenager. His knowledge of racing engines led him to join the all-Canadian Supertest speedboat team in 1957, as their mechanic. They were determined to end the 39-year American domination of the Harmsworth Cup, an international speedboat competition. To do so, they needed the fastest speedboat around, so they built Miss Supertest III. They also needed the best driver, so Bob was promoted to pilot. Together, they won the Harmsworth Cup in 1959 and successfully defended the trophy for 1960 and 1961.

Unfortunately, Bob’s life was tragically cut short. While he was piloting the older Miss Supertest II in a race, it flipped at over 155 miles per hour. He was 33 years old.

Bob and Miss Supertest have not been forgotten. He was inducted into the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame, and Canada Post issued a stamp honouring Bob and his boat.

In celebration of Bob’s achievements, the Thistle Theatre in his hometown of Embro is also putting on a play about his life and racing career next month.

Bob was a quiet and humble man, but it’s safe to say that this Oxford underdog made a big impact in speedboat racing.

Community organizations

M me Lucille Collard: Community organizations play a crucial role in addressing social issues and inequality. Whether it’s offering food assistance, mental health support, education and rehabilitation programs, or assistance to find housing, these organizations work tirelessly to uplift the most vulnerable members of society, addressing gaps in government services. The Vanier Community Services Centre, the CALACS, Montfort Renaissance, Le Cap, Lowertown Community Resource Centre, St.

Joe’s Women’s Centre, Centre espoir Sophie, Gloucester Emergency Food Cupboard—all these organizations and many more play this important role in Ottawa–Vanier. All of them, however, have described to me how the decreased funding they have seen over the last few years is threatening their very survival.

Because of their deep roots in the community, these organizations are uniquely positioned to develop and implement tailored solutions to local challenges in an efficient and cost-effective manner. By providing adequate financial support to these organizations, the government can amplify their impact and achieve greater outcomes at a fraction of the cost. So I beg the government to provide the financial support required to keep these entities alive and thriving.

Riding of Etobicoke–Lakeshore

Ms. Christine Hogarth: It is my pleasure to rise in the House today to once again speak on behalf of the beautiful community of Etobicoke–Lakeshore. Recently, I joined the Tibetan Canadian Cultural Centre in my riding to celebrate Losar, the Year of the Wood Dragon. The Tibetan Canadian Cultural Centre has played a key role in nourishing the community’s rich heritage through initiatives promoting Tibetan language and performing arts. It brought great joy to spotlight their contribution during Losar celebrations and reaffirmed my commitment to supporting efforts to improve the lives of over 5,000 Tibetan Canadians who call Ontario home, many within the riding of Etobicoke–Lakeshore.

During not-for-profit appreciation week it was an honour to recognize the work of Franklin Horner Community Centre, WoodGreen and the Jean Tweed Centre, and I cannot thank them, the workers and the volunteers enough for what they do every day to make our community stronger.

I recently also had the opportunity to tour Holy Angels Catholic School with Minister Lecce, and I’m so happy to report the new school, which will accommodate 600 students, with 88 child care spaces, is near completion, with an anticipated opening of September of this year. Congratulations.

I have also some more great news, that, finally, the Queensway urgent care centre is open. I know many of my residents have been asking for this. This expanded and renewed facility is open for service, providing expert care and comfort to many in the riding.

It’s a great time to live in south Etobicoke and the province of Ontario.

Housing

Mr. Trevor Jones: Good morning. We know communities across Ontario are experiencing challenges with our housing supply. Our government is taking bold, decisive action to build more housing faster and improve quality of life for everyone. I’m so proud of my community for working together and demonstrating leadership, because Chatham-Kent, just like our legendary MLB hall of famer Fergie Jenkins, literally hit it out of the park, exceeding our housing target by 554% last year.

On Friday, I was honoured to be joined by Minister Rob Flack and Chatham-Kent mayor, Darrin Canniff, to celebrate our 522 new housing starts last year, which unlocked $440,000 in funding through the Building Faster Fund. Our success is a direct result of the hard work and dedication of our home builders, trades professionals, realtors and Chatham-Kent municipal officials, who, together, are building a wide range of homes for families and individuals across Chatham-Kent. We’re thrilled with our progress to date and excited for the future.

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved, and a special thanks to the team at Maple City Homes for hosting us on Friday at their beautiful show home.

Fortunately, Speaker, this is just the beginning, and I’m grateful to be part of a government that will continue to create the conditions for success in home building, business, industry and agriculture.

Introduction of Visitors

Mr. Kevin Holland: I’d like to give warm welcome to Mr. Joachim Stroink from SustainAgro. Joachim is a former MLA in Nova Scotia, having served from 2013 to 2017. Welcome to Ontario.

Ms. Peggy Sattler: I’d like to welcome a delegation of students from the Canadian Federation of Students–Ontario who are with us today in the member’s gallery: Maryan Amalow, Faraz Khorsandi, Mitra Yakubi, Hisham Barakat, Christian Alvarez, Nawfal Sbaa and Mohammed El-Mendri. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Ms. Aislinn Clancy: I’d like to welcome Julie Wheeler. Julie is the director for seniors’ services at Sunnyside seniors’ services in my riding of Kitchener Centre. Thank you, Julie, for your selfless work for seniors in the region of Waterloo.

Hon. Stan Cho: It’s my privilege to welcome some fine folks from AdvantAge Ontario—in fact, 27 of them, including CEO Lisa Levin and chair of the board Sue Graham-Nutter.

AdvantAge is one of our government’s fantastic partners in the long-term-care sector, representing non-for-profit homes and the vital work they do for our seniors. Let’s not forget it’s their advocacy day, so everyone, please join them in committee rooms 228 and 230 at 5 p.m. for a fun reception. Thank you for coming to Queen’s Park.

Mr. John Vanthof: On behalf of the official opposition, I’d also like to welcome the board of AdvantAge, and in particular, one of the members of the board is from my riding, Paul Chatelain. He is the administrator of Rosedale Manor in Matheson, South Centennial Manor in Iroquois Falls and Villa Minto in Cochrane. He’s also the CEO of those three respective hospitals. He’s a very busy guy. Welcome, Paul.

Mr. John Yakabuski: I’d like to welcome, from my riding, Linda Tracey, the CEO of Marianhill long-term-care home in Pembroke, who is also here with AdvantAge Ontario. Linda also encourages everyone to join her and her colleagues at the reception between 5 and 7 in 228 and 230. Thank you for joining us, Linda.

Ms. Sandy Shaw: It’s my pleasure to welcome to the House the Rehoboth students from Rehoboth Christian School. I had the pleasure of meeting them this morning and am looking forward, very much so, to their singing of O Canada today.

I want to remind them: There’s the eagle that I told you about. You can’t see the owl, but maybe later on you can. Thank you so much for being in the Legislature today.

Mr. Andrew Dowie: I want to wish a warm, warm welcome to four from the University of Windsor: Maryan Amalow, Brahmjot Singh, Hisham Barakat and Kayla Weiler. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Ms. Chandra Pasma: It’s my pleasure to introduce this morning Tamara Witcher, president of OSSTF District 30; David Sykes, executive coordinator of OSSTF District 30; and Julien Abraham. Welcome.

Hon. Victor Fedeli: In 1978, if you phoned 476-5044, you would have got me at the end of the line. But today, 45 years later, you will get Scott and Cheryl Clark on the line, and they’re here in the audience.

MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam: Good morning, everyone. Good morning, Speaker. I would like to welcome the Citizens’ Climate Lobby Canada to Queen’s Park. It’s wonderful that you were able to host a reception this morning.

I also want to extend my personal warm gratitude and welcome to Sue Graham-Nutter, the CEO of the Rekai Centres, a distinguished long-term-care facility in our community of Toronto Centre, and also the chair of AdvantAge Ontario.

Mr. John Jordan: I also want to welcome all the members from AdvantAge Ontario and recognize the great work that they do for seniors in this province, and a special welcome to Carey Duncan, director of Lanark Lodge, in beautiful Perth, Ontario. It’s one of our most preferred homes thanks to the hard work of Carey Duncan and all her staff. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): There are still members who want to introduce guests. Unless there are objections, I’d like to continue.

Ms. Jennifer K. French: I’m pleased to welcome a neighbour from Oshawa, Glady Farquharson, who is here this morning with the Citizens’ Climate Lobby. Welcome to your House, Glady.

Mr. Rick Byers: It’s my pleasure as well to welcome a member of the board of AdvantAge Ontario: Jennifer Cornell, who is director of long-term care for Grey county, does a great job in our riding. Thank you for all your great work, and welcome.

MPP Jamie West: I’d like to welcome Sudburians from the Citizens’ Climate Lobby: Cathy Orlando, Claire Orlando, Maggie Fu and Sophia Mathur.

Maggie now lives in Toronto, Speaker, but she reminded me that when I was there, her and her father became Canadian citizens. It’s very special to me that she’s here today.

Hon. Andrea Khanjin: I’d like to welcome two guests from Haliburton-Norfolk, Laurie Burroughs and Jeff Muller. Welcome to your House.

MPP Lise Vaugeois: I would like to welcome Tanya Baker, who is here from Thunder Bay, representing AdvantAge Ontario.

I would also like to welcome, from OPSEU: Noah Freedman, Simon Chateauvert, JP Hornick, RM Kennedy and Simran Ghuman, who are all here to represent the interests of forest firefighters.

Ms. Natalie Pierre: I’d like to introduce Ontario Genomics, with us here today in the gallery. I’d also like to invite my colleagues to attend their lunchtime reception taking place in room 228 right after question period. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Mr. Mike Harris: Thank you very much for granting me leave to take a little extra time to introduce Steven Harrison, who is here with AdvantAge from my riding of Kitchener–Conestoga.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): This being the first sitting Monday of the month, this morning we have with us in the public gallery the Rehoboth Christian School choir from the riding of Flamborough–Glanbrook to perform O Canada and God Save the King. Please stand and join them in the singing of our national and royal anthems.

Singing of the national anthem / Chant de l’hymne national.

Singing of the royal anthem / Chant de l’hymne royal.

Applause.

Question Period

Government accountability

Ms. Marit Stiles: This question is for the Premier. During the Integrity Commissioner’s investigation into the greenbelt grab, the Premier’s chief of staff, Patrick Sackville, said under oath that he did not discuss removal criteria with anyone until October 27, 2022. But late last year, we in the NDP obtained an email sent from the personal account of Ryan Amato to the personal account of Mr. Sackville, discussing the removals and dated October 17, 10 days earlier.

To the Premier: Can the Premier explain this 10-day discrepancy in the testimony of his chief of staff to the Integrity Commissioner?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): And to reply, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

Hon. Paul Calandra: My understanding, of course, is that the chief of staff has reached out to the Integrity Commissioner to highlight the fact that there is actually no inconsistency with the testimony.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The supplementary question?

Ms. Marit Stiles: Speaker, it doesn’t add up, clearly.

This email was sent on the same day as a dramatic meeting between ministry staffers and the Premier’s housing policy adviser, Jae Truesdell. You might recall that was called a “train wreck of a meeting.” Mr. Truesdell was learning about the greenbelt scheme for the first time and, evidently, what he heard alarmed him. Mr. Amato said Mr. Truesdell didn’t know about the greenbelt scheme because he was told to “leave him in the dark.” According to the Integrity Commissioner, Mr. Amato identified Mr. Sackville as the “decision-maker in the Premier’s office for this project.”

Back to the Premier: Why did the Premier’s chief of staff tell Mr. Amato to leave his own housing policy adviser in the dark?

Hon. Paul Calandra: Of course, the Integrity Commissioner has reviewed that. Mr. Sackville has reached out to the Integrity Commissioner to ensure that there is no confusion with respect to his testimony and that there, of course, is no change in the testimony in any way, shape or form. There are no inconsistencies.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The final supplementary?

Ms. Marit Stiles: Well, the NDP has obtained yet another document showing that Mr. Amato sent an email later that evening, asking for a meeting to get everyone on the same page following that same “train wreck of a meeting” earlier that day. The request was sent to several top staffers in the Premier’s office. According to this document that we’ve acquired, Mr. Sackville agreed a meeting was needed, telling the group, “This is timely and critical.”

So I want to go back to the Premier again: In addition to Mr. Sackville, how many other officials in the Premier’s office discussed the greenbelt scheme earlier than what they told the Integrity Commissioner?

Hon. Paul Calandra: Again, the Integrity Commissioner has reviewed and issued a report. At the same time, the chief of staff has already reached out to the Integrity Commissioner to highlight some of the pronouncements made by the Leader of the Opposition. There are no inconsistencies and, of course, the Integrity Commissioner has that and will review it.

University and college funding

Ms. Marit Stiles: I understand why they’re hesitating to answer some of these questions. The RCMP is, of course, investigating them as well right now.

This question is for the Premier as well. This government was warned by the Auditor General back in 2021 that an overreliance on international student tuition was going to put our post-secondary education sector in a very untenable financial position. There was a steady stream of warnings coming from colleges and universities, from the government’s own expert panel, from us in the opposition, about the serious financial risk they were facing because of a lack of funding. The Minister of Colleges and Universities has claimed she wasn’t even aware a cap on international students was coming. It defies belief.

Back to the Premier: Was the minister asleep at the wheel here, or did she look the other way while private career colleges massively exploited the International Student Program?

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Order.

The Minister of Colleges and Universities to reply.

Hon. Jill Dunlop: Thank you to the member of the opposition for that question. And that is correct: Quite frankly, we are very disappointed in the federal decision that was made, a unilateral decision without consultation with the provinces or any of the post-secondary institutions. We are working very closely with our institutions right now.

But I can tell you, this is going to be an economic hit across not only Ontario, but across Canada. That’s what we were hearing from many different organizations. I talked to the tourism association during the ROMA conference and heard from them directly the impact that they foresee happening in the hospitality and tourism industry in Ontario.

As I have said, the Premier and the Prime Minister signed a historic health care deal. We need to ensure that we have enough PSWs to fill those spaces for the Minister of Long-Term Care, and enough nurses in this province for the Ministry of Health. We are going to continue working very closely with our partners, and we will have more to say by the March 31 deadline.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary question?

Ms. Marit Stiles: I will remind the minister that, under their watch, one university went bankrupt and now nearly half of our universities are reporting multi-million dollar deficits—under this government’s watch.

Speaker, the minister and this government knew exactly what they were doing by undermining the public colleges and universities to open the door to for-profit diploma mills. That’s what they were doing. Last week, we learned that those same colleges were making major donations to the minister’s re-election campaign.

So back to the Premier: Is this yet another case of wealthy donors and insiders shopping for policy changes behind closed doors?

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Members will please take their seats.

The Minister of Colleges and Universities.

Hon. Jill Dunlop: Again, a unilateral decision was made without consultation with the provinces, as well as the sector in this province.

I’ve heard extreme dissatisfaction from many institutions—but more importantly, the economic impact this is going to have on Canada and Ontario. The Minister of Economic Development is bringing new companies here to Ontario every single week, and guess one of the reasons they come here? It’s because of the talented pipeline of students that we have in this province.

I will continue to work with our institutions and we will be addressing this by the March 31 deadline.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Final supplementary?

Ms. Marit Stiles: It seems like everything has to be pushed to the absolute breaking point before this government chooses to do anything at all.

It’s students and families who are paying a huge price for this government’s failure. They’re relying on food banks. They’re juggling multiple jobs just to make rent. I’ve talked to families who are seriously questioning whether they can send their child to college. But instead of bringing forward the funding, the minister responsible was busy funding her own campaign, bringing in over $24,000 in a single night from directors and executives of those very same private colleges.

So, Speaker, back to the Premier again: Will there be any consequences for this minister, or does he approve of this return to Liberal-style cash-for-access fundraising in Ontario?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I’m going to once again caution the Leader of the Opposition on her choice of words.

And to reply, the Minister of Colleges and Universities.

Hon. Jill Dunlop: May I remind the whole House: Under Liberal leadership, tuition in this province rose. It was the highest tuition in all of Canada. Under the leadership of Premier Ford, in 2019, we decreased tuition by 10%. And may I remind the opposition, they voted against that initiative to make education affordable for students in this province.

Mr. Speaker, the Premier announced an additional tuition freeze moving forward for students. I want to ensure affordability for students. There’s an affordability crisis in Ontario and across Canada right now: the cost of housing, the cost of food and the cost of gas. But what this government is doing is ensuring that post-secondary education is affordable for all students in this province.

Justice system

MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam: My question is to the Premier. The Attorney General recently put two of the Premier’s buddies onto the committee responsible for judicial appointments. Shockingly, when the Premier was asked about these appointments, he said that he wants to ensure that the committee is only recommending Conservative-affiliated judges. He went so far as to suggest that if a judicial candidate had voted for the NDP or Liberals, they are a threat to public safety.

Yet, it is on this government’s watch that our criminal justice system has spiralled into chaos. It’s on this Premier’s watch that our courtrooms are closed every day due to understaffing. It’s on his watch that serious cases are routinely thrown out for delay.

Will the Premier reverse his partisan appointments, or is he just comfortable further undermining public confidence in the justice system?

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Members will please take their seats.

To respond, the Attorney General.

Hon. Doug Downey: I want to start with the acknowledgement that only those that would always be political expect others to always be political, Mr. Speaker.

It’s my obligation to make recommendations to the cabinet to appoint judges. I take that responsibility seriously and, obviously, I want advice from those that I respect. The advisory committee provides the advice. It has more than two members on it; in fact, it has three judges on the committee. So I don’t know if the member opposite is maligning all of the members of the committee or just the ones that she doesn’t agree with, which kind of is ironic given that she doesn’t want their advice and she doesn’t think we should have it.

I take the committee’s collective advice, Mr. Speaker, and these “Liberals in sandals” over here are no different than these Liberals over here in that they want to appoint advisers for me. Shocking that a Conservative government wants to hear from Conservative voices. As Brian Lilley said, they’re only upset because they think they should still get to make the decisions.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Order.

Supplementary question?

MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam: Back to the Premier: Six years in power and the Conservatives are still making up excuses for the worsening crisis in our justice system.

The Federation of Ontario Law Associations put out one of the more measured statements in response to the Premier’s comments, saying that the Premier has a “juvenile misapprehension” of the judicial appointments and that his comments are irresponsible, harmful and dangerous to our democracy.

It is shocking that even in our criminal justice system, the Premier’s focus seems to be entirely on producing favours for his insiders. Many people sitting across from me were given useless titles around King’s Counsel, and now, this government is putting unqualified friends into a position where they get to do favours for more Conservative allies.

Will the Premier reverse these appointments and apologize to the public and the legal community for their interference in the judicial appointments?

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Members will please take their seats. To respond—

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Order. The House will come to order. Stop the clock.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Are we ready to continue? Evidently not.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Start the clock. The Attorney General to reply.

Hon. Doug Downey: I have to say, Mr. Speaker, I was missing Mitzie Hunter’s five-in-one questions so that I can address the successes of this government, but I’m glad to see the tradition continue.

I can tell you that this government takes judicial appointments seriously. We have appointed 100 judicial positions, Mr. Speaker, and I would take exception if they could even point to one that isn’t qualified. We have a committee that’s been in place since 1985. It’s been populated with volunteers and judges ever since. We have a gold standard of appointments of judges, and that standard has continued. Only because the Toronto Star wrote a story are the NDP now paying attention. I am happy to go through every single one of the judicial appointments, and you will see that they are, in fact, qualified.

Mr. Speaker, you would think a government in waiting would have a little better understanding of how the system works—but I’m afraid we don’t. So we will continue with the—

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Thank you.

The next question.

Public transit

Mrs. Daisy Wai: My question is to the Associate Minister of Transportation. Many people living in my riding of Richmond Hill and across the GTA rely on public transit as their primary form of travel. Their experience using public transit should be convenient and affordable. However, many of my constituents have voiced concerns over steep transit costs.

Speaker, life is expensive, and hard-working individuals and families across our province are saying that it’s very hard for them. Our government must continue to keep costs down for transit riders and deliver the financial relief that they deserve.

Can the associate minister tell the House how our government is removing barriers to ridership and making Ontarians’ travel more affordable?

Hon. Vijay Thanigasalam: Thank you to the member from Richmond Hill for that question.

Mr. Speaker, let me be crystal clear. No government is doing more for transit riders than under the leadership of Premier Ford. We are making public transit more accessible and affordable than ever before. Our $70-billion transit plan—we are building transit all across Ontario. Starting today, our new one-fare program will put more money back into people’s pockets. Double fares are now gone. On average, this is a savings of $1,600 every year. Liberals couldn’t do it, but under Premier Ford, we got it done.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary question?

Mrs. Daisy Wai: Thank you to the minister for the response, and thank you very much for the $70-billion transit plan. People in my riding of Richmond Hill and across the GTA will be excited to know that they will save money when travelling, starting today.

With affordability being a top priority for everyone in Ontario, it’s surprising that the NDP and the independent Liberals voted against this program. They voted against saving transit riders $1,600 a year. That is shameful.

Our government will continue to ensure that our public transportation system is making it easier, faster and cheaper for people to get where they need to go.

Can the minister provide further details on how the one-fare program will make life easier for people in Ontario?

Hon. Vijay Thanigasalam: Mr. Speaker, while Bonnie Crombie hiked MiWay transit fares year over year in Mississauga, I was really disappointed that the Liberals and the NDP chose to play political games rather than supporting the one-fare program. This is the kind of program that makes a significant impact and difference in people’s lives. But the Liberals and NDP voted against saving transit riders $1,600 every year—they voted not just once, they voted against it twice.

Starting today, as I said, commuters can simply use the same card to tap to transfer from one transit agency to another transit agency. That’s going to save them more money so they can save their money towards their future, their children or for their most important things, like groceries.

We are the only party that is working to eliminate barriers and make life more affordable, under the leadership of Premier Doug Ford.

Natural gas rates

Mr. Peter Tabuns: To the Premier: In December, the Ontario Energy Board decided to protect Enbridge Gas customers from unreasonable rate increases for new gas line installation. We’re talking about $300 per customer over the next four years. The next day, the Premier’s Minister of Energy said he would bring in a bill to overturn the decision and crank up the gas bills.

Will the Premier protect gas customers from higher Enbridge charges?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): To reply for the government, the Minister of Energy.

Hon. Todd Smith: Since day one, we’ve been focused on ensuring that we have a reliable, affordable, clean energy system in this province. It’s remarkable for me, Mr. Speaker, to hear the energy critic from the NDP now standing up and championing gas in our province when at every opportunity he has slammed the use of natural gas—not just slammed the use of natural gas, but he’s also slammed our nuclear sector.

What we have done by introducing the bill last week—and we’ll debate it at second reading today, Mr. Speaker—is ensure that there’s at least one party in this Legislature that’s standing up for homeowners and new homeowners and energy customers, and that is Premier Ford and the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario. They can be beholden to the environmental groups; they can be beholden to those who are ideological. We are not going to do that. We’re going to stand up for the people of Ontario.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Stop the clock.

Restart the clock. The supplementary question?

Mr. Peter Tabuns: Again, to the Premier, the question is pretty simple; I’m sure even the minister can understand it. Millions of Ontarians are having trouble paying their bills. Will the Premier support lower gas bills for customers or will he protect higher profits for Enbridge? What will he choose?

Hon. Todd Smith: This is like Twilight Zone stuff here, that this member is standing up for gas customers when he has wanted to shut down natural gas right across the province.

Mr. Speaker, there’s one party in this Legislature that is standing up for those who want to enter the home market. They want to buy a home in this province. That’s this party. The Ontario Energy Board’s decision from just before Christmas would have driven up the price of a home by, at minimum, $4,400. Our party won’t stand for that. But in parts of rural Ontario, it was going to drive up the cost by tens of thousands of dollars a year.

We are in a housing crisis in this province. Every time our party brings forward plans, like the housing supply action plan, it’s the NDP that stands up against it, Mr. Speaker, and this is the latest example of the NDP and the Liberals and the Greens standing up against the ability for people to buy a home in our province. We are going to stand with those who want to get into housing, Mr. Speaker, and make sure we’re keeping shovels in the ground in Ontario.

Manufacturing sector

Mr. Sam Oosterhoff: My question is for the Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. Under the leadership of the previous Liberal government, we saw Ontario garner a reputation as an extremely high-cost jurisdiction. Companies that had set up shop left in droves and international businesses overlooked Ontario as a potential jurisdiction in which to expand and grow and add jobs.

But since taking office, our government, under the leadership of Premier Ford, has recognized the importance of building a resilient manufacturing sector and we’ve made sure that these jobs are being created in every corner of this province.

Speaker, could the minister provide an update to the House on some of the manufacturing investments we welcomed in Niagara since the beginning of the year?

Hon. Victor Fedeli: Our government recognizes just how important the manufacturing sector is in our economy. Already this year, we’ve welcomed $65 million in investment in Niagara region alone:

—Stanpac manufactures food, dairy and beverage packaging for global businesses—they invested $35 million to retool their facility in Smithville;

—AMSI, a company that designs and constructs support buildings for on-site development—they invested $20 million to construct a 67,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Beamsville;

—St. Davids Cold Storage invested $9 million to expand their cold storage facility for food and beverage manufacturers—they created a total of 46 good-paying jobs with $6.7 million in investment support from the government.

Stay tuned, Speaker. The game-changing investments are just starting.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The supplementary question?

Mr. Sam Oosterhoff: Thank you to the minister for the answer and also the work he is doing to attract good-paying jobs to Niagara and to every corner of this province. It’s great to hear that new, good-paying manufacturing jobs are being created in our province following years of news about manufacturing jobs—some 300,000 of them—fleeing Ontario under the Liberal government.

In fact, manufacturing employment in Ontario is now at one of the highest levels it has been since 2008. It is a testament to the measures our government has taken to cut red tape, slash taxes and get our economy back on track while rebuilding the manufacturing sector.

Speaker, could the minister share more about how these manufacturing investments are coming to Ontario?

Hon. Victor Fedeli: This is such a historic number that it bears repeating: In 2023, Ontario created more manufacturing jobs than all 50 US states combined. In the last three years, Ontario has attracted more than $29 billion in new manufacturing investments, creating more than 11,000 new jobs in that sector.

This year, Ontario welcomed an investment from a Kitchener-based med-tech firm, FluidAI. They’re investing $25 million, hiring 38 new technicians with a $1.4-million investment from our government. This investment will strengthen our world-class manufacturing sector and create jobs for hard-working families in Ontario.

We have continued to create the right conditions for job growth in every region of the province.

Provincial schools

Ms. Chandra Pasma: Students at Ontario’s provincial schools are some of the most vulnerable students in our province, yet they are being forced to learn in horrific conditions. There are allegations of abuse, discrimination and neglect; a serious teacher shortage; crumbling school buildings; and absurd emergency response plans.

These schools are the direct responsibility of the Minister of Education. He could change things today if he wanted to. Students, parents, alumni, teachers and advocates have been begging him for years to act.

Will the minister finally take action and do something to protect these children?

Hon. Stephen Lecce: I do thank the member opposite for the question. We do agree; these are the most exceptional children within our care. It’s why this government has announced an $8.6-million investment to enhance and renew the facilities that lodge these kids. It’s why the government actually appointed inspectors to ensure compliance. It’s why this government announced a permanent executive director and a clinical manager and a new lodging policy that enhances safety through regulation.

We are committed to investing in supporting these kids, recognizing there are about 520 kids within our care and 610 staff that we have in place. We’ll continue to support them and provide compassion, hope, opportunity and training for these children, whom I visited at these various lodgings and schools across Ontario. We are committed to their success, Speaker.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The supplementary question?

Ms. Chandra Pasma: Since the minister seems unaware of what’s happening in these schools on his watch, let’s talk about their record:

—a school with deaf students and deaf staff using a cowbell as the emergency alert system;

—students having class in the bathroom because it’s the only place warm enough to take off their mittens, and they need to use their hands to communicate;

—students only getting assessments if their parents hire a lawyer or complain to their MPP;

—two class action lawsuits in the past 10 years, with the province paying $23 million in settlements, and yet there are currently no less than three new lawsuits filed or pending.

Is this a record that the minister is proud of? What is it going to take for him to finally act?

Hon. Stephen Lecce: Mr. Speaker, the concerns cited by the member opposite underscore why the government invested $8.6 million to enhance the facilities for those kids. It’s why the government did not defend the actions of the former Liberal government. We actually initiated the hiring of inspectors to ensure compliance. It’s why the government announced a permanent executive director to support those kids, and we hired a clinical manager with a new, tougher lodging policy imposed by regulation. This shouldn’t be a political matter. I understand these kids are very vulnerable. They need our support.

But you talk about a track record—the member opposite will need to explain to those families why you opposed the funding to enhance those lodgings, why you opposed the increase in special education funding for those kids, why you opposed the hiring of 3,200 EAs to help the most vulnerable in our schools. While they’ll have to explain that to the families of this province, we’ll continue to invest and support the success of the most exceptional kids within our care.

Justice system

Mr. John Fraser: My question is to the Premier. We know that the Premier makes sure that wealthy, well-connected friends are taken care of, whether it’s the $8.3-billion backroom deal to carve up the greenbelt; secret, sole-source contracts for Therme and Staples; ministerial zoning orders for land speculators; or, as the Premier said himself, appointments for insiders and friends.

The Premier’s latest two insider appointments are to the panel that appoints Ontario’s judges. That’s not the worst part, folks; it’s that the Premier says that their job is to appoint “like-minded” judges. I just need to know: Why does the Premier think it’s a good idea to appoint judges who think like him while his office is the subject of an RCMP criminal investigation?

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Order.

To reply, the Attorney General.

Hon. Doug Downey: I guess the Liberals are feeling left out. I actually thought they would keep their heads down on this kind of issue. Their record of appointments is abysmal and irresponsible. The former chair of the exact same committee was a Liberal donor and supporter, along with several other members of the same committee.

Here’s the thing: That doesn’t bother me. That doesn’t bother me at all. What bothers me is the hypocrisy of the other side—

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The member has to withdraw the unparliamentary comment and conclude.

Hon. Doug Downey: Withdraw.

What bothers me is the inconsistency of the other side in trying to avoid transparency. They’re mostly upset because something was said out loud that they want buried.

We were elected—we’re not just on this side of the House, Mr. Speaker, we’re on that side of the House. Our majority sits over there. We have an obligation to the public to make appointments in the interests of the public. We will listen to conservative voices and we will make responsible appointments.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Order.

The supplementary question?

Mr. John Fraser: None of this is a surprise, Speaker. This is the same Premier who wanted to appoint a close personal friend as the commissioner of the OPP.

Ontarians don’t need like-minded judges, they need fair-minded judges who apply the law in an unbiased and unpartisan way, Premier. That’s the Canadian way. We don’t elect judges. We’re not the US. Politicians don’t get to stack the courts, Premier. This is so Canadians all have trust in the judicial system. What the Premier says he wants to do, just by simply saying it, is eroding trust in the people’s courts.

Speaker, through you: Will the Premier do the right thing, rescind these two appointments and stop his interference with the independence of our courts?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): To respond, the Premier.

Hon. Doug Ford: I find it ironic, and I actually have no problem with it. Many years ago, 30 years ago, I met a former Speaker called Chris Stockwell. He said, “Never, ever criticize the opposition for appointing people like-minded.”

We have a massive crime wave right now happening in our cities right across Toronto and the GTA. They’re kicking doors in, they’re putting guns to people’s heads and guess what happens, Mr. Speaker? They get out on bail, then they go do it again, then they get out on bail again and then they get out on bail. They’ve been out on bail eight times.

I guarantee, if I asked the students up there if they’re aware their houses are being broken into, their cars are being broken into—they’re terrified to stay at home by themselves. They want to go everywhere their parents go, because they’re terrified.

I am going to make sure we have like-minded judges—

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Stop the clock. The House will come to order.

Start the clock. The next question.

Education

Ms. Donna Skelly: My question is for the Minister of Education. Our government will always be on the side of parents who want their kids to stay in class. The data is clear: Children excel when they are in school consistently. Literacy rates have increased across all grade levels and math has either stabilized or improved. We know that the minister is determined to land deals that keep kids learning and ensure that families across our province receive the stability they deserve.

Speaker, through you to the minister: How is our government working to keep children learning and to ensure that Ontario families benefit from a renewed focus on academic achievement?

Hon. Stephen Lecce: Thank you to the member from Flamborough–Glanbrook for this question. I’m proud to announce in this House for the first time since we last rose ahead of the holidays that our government has landed deals with the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario and the French teachers’ union, which represents over a million children having peace and stability in their lives for the next three years.

As our government goes back to the basics of ensuring foundational learning, we can now provide a sense of certainty to families that their children will be in school learning with their educators, with their friends and with the stimulus of extracurriculars, clubs and sports. All of this is important to producing a well-rounded student who graduates with a competitive advantage as we help them ensure they’ve got the skills to get a good-paying job.

We are committed to stability for families, and we will stand up for children and their families to keep them in school right to June.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary?

Will the minister outline our government’s plan to support our youngest students and strengthen learning on what actually matters to parents and the job market?

Hon. Stephen Lecce: Thank you again to the member for Flamborough–Glanbrook for this important question and her leadership on this file. We recognize stability is key, and, today, because of our government’s leadership, three in four students have that certainty, with no strikes on the horizon for the next three years as we go back to basics and really emphasize academic achievement as the foremost priority of our school boards.

Our plan to get back to basics and back on track is working. Ontario is the second in the nation in reading, writing and math; we are in the top 10 in science internationally and top 15 in math globally.

To build on this, we recognize we have to start early, which is why the parliamentary assistants to the Ministers of Education and Health joined me to announce that we are introducing a new kindergarten curriculum that will require mandatory, explicit daily instruction in literacy and in math, supported by the Ontario Human Rights Commission.

We are committed to ensuring kids learn life and job skills that allow them to get a good-paying job, own a home and achieve the dream of this country. We’re going to continue to invest and support back to basics in Ontario schools.

Forest firefighting

Mr. Guy Bourgouin: The government recently refused amendments the NDP proposed for Working for Workers Bill 149 that would have properly reclassified wildland forest rangers as firefighters, making them eligible for the same presumptive cancer coverage as all other firefighters. There are many studies showing that people who fight forest fires are exposed to dangerous chemicals, and yet this government denies these workers access to the same support available to structural firefighters.

My question: With wildfire season anticipated to start early this year, will the government finally do the right thing and classify forest rangers as firefighters?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.

Hon. David Piccini: A short answer to the member opposite: Yes. We look forward, as we’ve done multiple times in session, to implement Working for Workers legislation, and I appreciate the input from all members of this place.

Speaker, let’s not forget that it’s this government that has expanded presumptive coverage for thyroid, for pancreatic, and now esophageal cancer. When that party opposite held the balance of power and could have pushed the Liberals to do something about it, they didn’t—but Premier Ford and our government are.

I would appreciate the member opposite—he can work like other members in his caucus, work with us and add these expanded coverages, and I look forward to working with him to do just that.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The supplementary question? The member for Thunder Bay–Superior North.

MPP Lise Vaugeois: The government received a joint health and safety committee recommendation pointing to the failure of the ministry to acknowledge well-known and serious health risks to forest firefighters. Forest firefighters are exposed to silicas, benzines, formaldehyde, poison ivy smoke, carbon monoxide and dump fires riddled with carcinogens. And yet, unbelievably, forest firefighters are told that all they need to protect themselves from toxins is a homemade bandana. Does this government seriously believe this is an acceptable standard of worker health and safety?

Hon. David Piccini: I’m very grateful for the heroic work of firefighters. We’ve worked closely with the OPFFA and so many others. We had members and firefighter families in this place just last week. We’re going to continue working with them.

That member is seriously late to everything. This government has taken action—as I said: thyroid, pancreatic, esophageal, so much more. We’ve reformed WSIB. Quite frankly, when that party held the balance of power and when that party was, for the one time that they’ll ever have, in government in Ontario, WSIB was a mess. We’re working with WSIB, working with the heroic front-line responders, and we implemented the Skills Development Fund—things that member has done nothing to support—to expand Indigenous fire training, to support men and women who are serving on the front lines. We’ll always have their back, with or without that member.

I hope she’ll work with us on this, and I look forward—

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Thank you.

The next question.

Northern agri-food industry

Mr. Robert Bailey: My question is for the Minister of Northern Development. Speaker, the northern agri-food industry keeps our communities thriving. For 15 years, this critical industry was ignored by the previous Liberal government. Instead of supporting workers in the north, they insulted them by calling northern Ontario a “no man’s land.”

Our government recognizes the value of the agriculture and food sector in northern Ontario, as it boosts the local economy and creates great employment opportunities. That’s why we need to continue to make targeted investments that will boost local food production and stimulate expansion and diversification in the northern agri-food sector.

Can the minister tell this House what steps this government is taking to ensure that the agri-food sector stays competitive in northern Ontario?

Hon. Greg Rickford: I thank the member from Sarnia–Lambton for his decades of advocacy. He’s a great colleague to work with, and I appreciate him very much.

On the heels of the Beef Farmers of Ontario’s AGM and the great speech from the Minister of Agriculture, I was there to remind the beef farmers of our unequivocal support for beef farming in northern Ontario. This is a growing agri-food sector. We have lots of examples to draw from. I mentioned the Penokean Hills co-operative, a group comprised of northern producers who sell and market beef products to build a finishing yard at the old Thessalon airport, responding for locally grown food. I also reminded them of an investment for the Rainy River Cattlemen’s Association out in my riding of Kenora–Rainy River.

To the tune of almost a million dollars, the Premier and I announced an investment for their sales barn, which turns more than $10 million of beef sales a year out in the beautiful beginning of the Prairies. They were pleased, and they understood that our government stands poised to support agri-food in northern Ontario and its supply chain.

We know that northern Ontario can be the next big frontier for agri-food production in Ontario.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary question?

Mr. Robert Bailey: Thanks to the minister for that great response. It’s great to hear that our government is focusing on supporting the agri-food sector and livestock producers in the north.

Unfortunately, the people of northern Ontario are no strangers to the negative impacts of reckless policies put in place by previous Liberal governments. While the Liberals killed hundreds of thousands of jobs, our government is not only bringing those jobs back, but we’re continuing to invest in innovations in the agri-food sector and with livestock producers. By supporting agriculture research and innovation, we can increase the production and consumption of locally grown food in northern Ontario and throughout this province.

Speaker, can the minister again explain what our government is doing to increase food security and to ensure that northern Ontario’s agriculture sector continues to thrive?

Hon. Greg Rickford: It isn’t just that the previous Liberal government thought that northern Ontario was a no man’s land, they made life more expensive, and their federal cousins continue to do that.

On the other hand, Mr. Speaker, our party is ensuring that the right investments are being made to strengthen the supply chain for agri-food production across northern Ontario. I spoke at the Northern Ontario Farm Innovation Alliance to announce thousands of new acres of tile drainage in the Timiskaming and Cochrane districts, as well as in the Manitoulin Island regions. These are essential for creating arable land for livestock and other crop production.

It’s absolutely essential that they have the tools they need to become a major player in agri-food sector production for the province of Ontario and beyond its borders, but also for the new demand—the new rage, if you will, Mr. Speaker—to have locally grown food that’s more affordable and meets the test of food security and food sovereignty locally that everyone in northern Ontario is asking for.

Child care

Ms. Teresa J. Armstrong: My question is to the Premier. For months now, we’ve been warning that the rollout of affordable child care is at a crisis point. The YMCA has been ringing alarm bells at pre-budget hearings across the province, warning of imminent closures in child care centres if this government doesn’t step up to provide adequate resources.

Despite countless operators asking for an adjusted funding formula and others pulling out of the program, this government’s operating funding to child care programs is lower than it was in 2018.

Will the government commit to immediately implementing a full-cost-recovery model, to ensure parents can access affordable child care in this province?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Minister of Education.

Hon. Stephen Lecce: Mr. Speaker, we are proud as a government, as the Progressive Conservative Party, to have cut child care fees by 50% for working families in this province, saving anywhere between $8,000 and $10,000 per child.

The NDP cannot have it both ways. The NDP is on the record urging this government to sign the first deal available, which would have omitted $3 billion for those operators, which would have omitted for-profit child care in London and in communities across the province—a third of our operators are for-profit—because of an ideological aversion to a small business, often a woman, who runs a for-profit child care operator.

We are advocating to the federal Liberal government to demand more funding for our operators. Why don’t you get on board and support this government, and stand up for all operators and all families in this province?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The supplementary question?

Ms. Teresa J. Armstrong: We have an unworkable funding model and a workforce crisis in the child care sector. Parents need affordable child care now, and instead of taking action to help, this government cut $85 million in funding. Ontario could have a decent workforce and fair wages for ECEs and child care workers, and address a staffing shortage in this province with an equal funding partner.

We must ensure families have equitable options for child care. The best way to do that is by instating a full-cost-recovery model. Will the minister finally take action to ensure families can get access to timely child care in this province? Minister, do it for the kids.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Order. I’ll remind members to make their comments through the Chair.

The Minister of Education.

Hon. Stephen Lecce: For the member’s passionate advocacy on this matter, I will remind her and her party and the Liberals that when the Liberal Party was last in power, care rose by over 400%. That was an unacceptable reality for working families. This government got to power, negotiated a materially better deal for the families we represent, and unlike the members opposite who wanted us to oppose for-profit child care, who wanted us to oppose advocating for respecting the way parents raise their kids, we fought for and delivered a better deal and cut fees by 50% and are building 86,000 net new spaces.

We’re going to continue to reduce fees, we’re going to continue to create spaces and we’re going to continue to urge the federal Liberal government to step up with funding to support our operators, support our parents and support our kids, because all families will benefit from affordable child care in this province, Speaker.

Environmental assessments

M me Dawn Gallagher Murphy: My question is for the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. Environmental assessments are critical to getting infrastructure projects built and repaired quickly while protecting our nature.

Unfortunately, the environmental assessment process was severely neglected under the previous Liberal government. Imagine: People would have to wait until a hydro pole fell down or broke to have it replaced due to excessive red tape. That’s unacceptable, Speaker. Our government must continue to eliminate this type of excessive red tape that was left behind by the Liberals and keep getting shovels in the ground faster to meet the needs of people across our great province.

Speaker, can the minister please share how this government is improving the environmental assessment process to save time and resources while securing environmental outcomes?

Hon. Andrea Khanjin: Thank you to that member for that question. She’s absolutely correct. We simply had a process that allowed decaying hydro poles to collapse without being able to fix them right away. That’s, frankly, ridiculous and dangerous, and that’s because such things were mired in bureaucracy and red tape under the Liberal government.

We know the opposition is okay to maintain the status quo, which drives up the cost of living and does absolutely nothing for the environment. But this is why we’ve been working hard under the leadership of this Premier to modernize a more than 50-year-old environmental assessment process. This is in response to calls from municipalities and communities that were frustrated that critical infrastructure projects were being caught up in unnecessary bureaucracy. Through extensive consultations with municipalities and Indigenous communities, our officials were able to identify products with known outcomes and processes so these projects can get done quicker for all Ontarians.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary?

M me Dawn Gallagher Murphy: Thank you to the minister for her response. It is great to see our government bring forward changes that will protect world-class environmental standards while helping get shovels in the ground sooner.

As our population continues to grow, we must ensure we have the transportation network and infrastructure needed to build a better Ontario. It is equally important to complete these projects in an environmentally responsible manner with communities’ interests in mind.

Speaker, can the minister please elaborate on how our government is protecting strong environmental oversight and making it faster to build in Ontario?

Hon. Andrea Khanjin: The member is referring to such projects as highways, railways and transmission lines that are going to be subject to streamlined assessments. These will allow us to focus our resources on projects that have a greater potential for environmental impact.

Speaker, construction methods have come a long way in the last 50 years. The way my ministry does environmental assessments has come a long way in 50 years. It’s time the process itself was brought up to date as well.

Speaker, it’s not only just on this change that we’re helping and listening to Ontarians, but it’s also part of our initiative to exempt regulations to streamline environmental assessment for Indigenous land claims as well and Indigenous settlements. This regulation will help resolve historic land claims more quickly by providing a single yet robust process for First Nations to settle these important claims.

More recently, our government has also removed the unnecessary yet mandatory 30-day wait period on routine projects. This is one change that will allow municipalities to build roads, bridges and water-treatment facilities faster.

Under the leadership of this Premier and this government, we will make sensible, practical changes that will ensure a strong environment and—

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Thank you very much.

The next question.

Public health

Miss Monique Taylor: My question is for the Premier. In 2019, your government made sweeping changes to our public health system without consulting public health. Fast-forward to 2023, and the Auditor General’s value-for-money audit shows clearly a lack of funding—a lack of funding which has serious risks to our communities.

Our Hamilton lab completes over 300,000 tests a year—and now Hamilton as well as five other public health labs will be closing their doors.

Premier, your government is once again putting our community at risk. When are you going to respect our local public health units and fund them appropriately?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The Deputy Premier and Minister of Health.

Hon. Sylvia Jones: The member opposite, of course, is talking about a recommendation made by the Auditor General. There has been no decision made by the ministry or Public Health Ontario. But to suggest in any way that we have not been funding our public health partners is a complete fallacy, and the numbers prove it out. We have, since 2020-21, invested over $100 million for infection prevention and control hubs to support over 5,000 congregate living settings across the province. That’s something that, when you were in government and when you were supporting the Liberals, never happened.

We’ll continue to support public health because we understand how absolutely critical it is.

At last year’s AMO conference, we announced that we would continue to support an increase with public health units across Ontario and support voluntary mergers if they deemed them appropriate for their community.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I must caution the Minister of Health on her choice of wording.

Supplementary question?

Miss Monique Taylor: Sustainable funding and one-time funding are not the same. Our public health units are at risk because of their cuts in our public health.

Speaker, 300,000 tests a year—tests like RSV, C. difficile, HIV; and free testing for people with private drinking water systems like wells and cisterns; tests for water that might be contaminated with bacteria, West Nile virus, E. coli. Do I need to remind this government of Walkerton? All of these tests are on the chopping block for Hamilton.

Premier, once again, your government is putting our communities at risk. When will you put people’s health and safety first and reverse these cuts and closures?

Hon. Sylvia Jones: Oh, Speaker, I think we just experienced, in live time, NDP math.

Since 2018, public health units have had increased funding from the provincial government by 16%—that is separate and apart from all the COVID-related expenses that happened in public health.

With the greatest of respect, facts matter. Look at the estimates, look at the budgets and see the investments we’ve made—again, 16% since Premier Ford began forming government in 2018.

Government services for Indigenous communities

Ms. Goldie Ghamari: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery. Our government is committed to advancing reconciliation and listening to Indigenous partners and leaders. Fees for death records of children who attended residential schools in Ontario and for reclaiming traditional names are unjust. We need to reduce the burden for Indigenous communities, organizations and family members who are trying to access records and services. Our government must continue to take meaningful action to ensure supports are available at every step of the journey towards healing for Indigenous communities.

Speaker, through you: Can the minister please tell this House what our government is doing to make it easier and more affordable for Indigenous people in Ontario to access vital government services?

Hon. Todd J. McCarthy: I thank the excellent member for Carleton for that question.

I am very pleased to confirm that our Progressive Conservative government, as of January 2024, will be permanently waiving fees for changing names for residential school survivors and their families aiming to reclaim traditional names altered by the residential school system. As part of this initiative, fees are also waived for registering a delayed registration of death for children who were enrolled in residential schools. Additionally, this government is permanently eliminating fees for death registration searches, certificates and certified copies of death registrations.

These permanent fee waivers are providing ongoing financial relief for impacted Indigenous communities and families during an already difficult time.

Also, under the leadership of our Premier, the Honourable Doug Ford, our Progressive Conservative government will always stand by our First Nations communities by taking meaningful action that ensures support every step of the way toward reconciliation.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary question?

Ms. Goldie Ghamari: Mr. Speaker, through you: Thank you to the minister for his response. This announcement marks an important step in moving along the path of reconciliation and provides financial relief for Indigenous communities. We know that Indigenous and northern communities face unique challenges in accessing government records and services. It is our government’s ongoing responsibility to address their concerns. That’s why we must continue to provide support that is flexible and responsive to their needs.

I know we have worked with ServiceOntario over the years to reduce barriers and improve services. Can the minister please explain what initiatives our government has put forward to make services more accessible in remote and Indigenous communities?

Hon. Todd J. McCarthy: Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Carleton again for the supplementary question. I am proud to say that Ontario was the first jurisdiction in Canada to explicitly allow for a birth to be registered with a single name or for a person to change one’s name to a single name.

These changes build on recent initiatives by my ministry that provide easier access to government services in remote and Indigenous communities. In July 2022, ServiceOntario and the North Shore Tribal Council worked collaboratively to launch the first Indigenous-led ServiceOntario centre at the Serpent River Trading Post in Cutler to deliver photo card, driver’s licence, vehicle and health care cards and other services. Then, in October 2022, we launched the first mobile service unit within the Robinson-Huron Treaty area, and then Pickle Lake, November 2023, we restored services at the municipal office there.

I was very proud to be there with the member opposite representing that constituency.

Notices of dissatisfaction

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Pursuant to standing order 36(a), the member for Ottawa South has given notice of their dissatisfaction with the answer to the question given by the Attorney General regarding judicial appointments. This matter will be debated tomorrow following private members’ public business.

Also, pursuant to standing order 36(a), the member for Ottawa West–Nepean has given notice of their dissatisfaction with the answer to their question given by the Minister of Education regarding provincial schools. This matter will be debated Wednesday following private members’ public business.

Also, pursuant to standing order 36(a), the member for Toronto Centre has given notice of their dissatisfaction with the answer to their question given by the Attorney General regarding judicial appointments. This matter will be debated Wednesday following private members’ public business.

I understand the member for Ottawa South has a point of order.

Mr. John Fraser: Point of order: I just want to address the Attorney General’s response and his remarks about the former member from Scarborough–Guildwood. I would just hope, Speaker, that once we’ve all left here—

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Thank you. It’s not a valid point of order.

Deferred Votes

Northern Health Travel Grant Advisory Committee Act, 2024 / Loi de 2024 sur le Comité consultatif des subventions aux résidents du Nord de l’Ontario pour frais de transport à des fins médicales

Deferred vote on the motion for second reading of the following bill:

Bill 13,

An Act to enact the Northern Health Travel Grant Advisory Committee Act, 2024 / Projet de loi 13, Loi édictant la Loi de 2024 sur le Comité consultatif des subventions aux résidents du Nord de l’Ontario pour frais de transport à des fins médicales.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Call in the members. This is a five-minute bell.

The division bells rang from 1149 to 1154.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Members will please take their seats.

On February 22, 2024, Mr. Mantha moved second reading of Bill 13,

An Act to enact the Northern Health Travel Grant Advisory Committee Act, 2024.

All those in favour, please rise and remain standing until recognized by the Clerk.

Ayes

Armstrong, Teresa J.

Bell, Jessica

Bourgouin, Guy

Bowman, Stephanie

Brady, Bobbi Ann

Burch, Jeff

Clancy, Aislinn

Collard, Lucille

Fife, Catherine

Fraser, John

French, Jennifer K.

Gates, Wayne

Glover, Chris

Hazell, Andrea

Hsu, Ted

Kernaghan, Terence

Mamakwa, Sol

Mantha, Michael

McCrimmon, Karen

Pasma, Chandra

Sattler, Peggy

Schreiner, Mike

Shamji, Adil

Shaw, Sandy

Stevens, Jennifer (Jennie)

Stiles, Marit

Tabuns, Peter

Taylor, Monique

Vanthof, John

Vaugeois, Lise

West, Jamie

Wong-Tam, Kristyn

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): All those opposed to the motion will please rise and remain standing until recognized.

Nays

Anand, Deepak

Babikian, Aris

Bailey, Robert

Barnes, Patrice

Bethlenfalvy, Peter

Bresee, Ric

Byers, Rick

Calandra, Paul

Cho, Raymond Sung Joon

Cho, Stan

Clark, Steve

Coe, Lorne

Crawford, Stephen

Cuzzetto, Rudy

Dixon, Jess

Dowie, Andrew

Downey, Doug

Dunlop, Jill

Fedeli, Victor

Ford, Doug

Gallagher Murphy, Dawn

Ghamari, Goldie

Grewal, Hardeep Singh

Hardeman, Ernie

Harris, Mike

Hogarth, Christine

Holland, Kevin

Jones, Sylvia

Jones, Trevor

Jordan, John

Kanapathi, Logan

Kerzner, Michael S.

Khanjin, Andrea

Kusendova-Bashta, Natalia

Leardi, Anthony

Lecce, Stephen

Lumsden, Neil

MacLeod, Lisa

Martin, Robin

McCarthy, Todd J.

McGregor, Graham

Mulroney, Caroline

Oosterhoff, Sam

Pang, Billy

Parsa, Michael

Piccini, David

Pierre, Natalie

Pirie, George

Quinn, Nolan

Rae, Matthew

Rickford, Greg

Riddell, Brian

Romano, Ross

Sabawy, Sheref

Sandhu, Amarjot

Sarkaria, Prabmeet Singh

Sarrazin, Stéphane

Saunderson, Brian

Scott, Laurie

Skelly, Donna

Smith, Dave

Smith, David

Smith, Graydon

Smith, Laura

Smith, Todd

Surma, Kinga

Tangri, Nina

Thanigasalam, Vijay

Thompson, Lisa M.

Tibollo, Michael A.

Triantafilopoulos, Effie J.

Wai, Daisy

Yakabuski, John

The Clerk of the Assembly (Mr. Trevor Day): The ayes are 32; the nays are 73.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I declare the motion lost.

Second reading negatived.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): There being no further business this morning, this House stands in recess until 1 p.m.

The House recessed from 1158 to 1300.

Introduction of Government Bills

Strengthening Accountability and Student Supports Act, 2024 / Loi de 2024 pour renforcer la responsabilisation et les mesures de soutien aux étudiants

Ms. Dunlop moved first reading of the following bill:

Bill 166,

An Act to amend the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Act / Projet de loi 166, Loi modifiant la

Loi sur le ministère de la Formation et des Collèges et Universités.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Is it the pleasure of the House that the motion carry? Carried.

First reading agreed to.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Would the minister care to briefly explain her bill?

Hon. Jill Dunlop: Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. The bill amends the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Act with respect to colleges of applied arts and technology, and publicly assisted universities. The amendments include the following:

(1) Every college and university is required to have a student mental health policy that describes the programs, policies, services and supports available at the college or university in respect of student mental health;

(2) Every college and university is required to have policies and rules to address and combat racism and hate, including, but not limited to, anti-Indigenous racism, anti-Black racism, anti-Semitism and Islamophobia; and

(3) The minister is authorized to issue directives in relation to the information to be provided about the costs associated with attending a college or university.

Introduction of Bills

Orthodox Christian Week Act, 2024 / Loi de 2024 sur la Semaine des chrétiens orthodoxes

Mr. Rakocevic moved first reading of the following bill:

Bill 167,

An Act to proclaim Orthodox Christian Week / Projet de loi 167, Loi proclamant la Semaine des chrétiens orthodoxes.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Is it the pleasure of the House that the motion carry? Carried.

First reading agreed to.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I’ll invite the member to briefly explain his bill.

Mr. Tom Rakocevic: Orthodox Easter Sunday, which commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, is the most significant and holy day in the Orthodox Christian calendar.

The Orthodox Christian Church has hundreds of millions of followers across the world, mainly situated in Europe, Africa and Asia. Although a minority faith in Ontario, Orthodox Christians have settled here for generations and have established active churches and cultural associations which add to the diverse cultural fabric of our province.

Faith is a central part of many people’s culture and identity. Proclaiming Orthodox Christian Week recognizes and celebrates the unique faith, culture, traditions and history of Orthodox Christians in Ontario and across the world.

Stormwater Flood Prevention Act, 2024 / Loi de 2024 sur la prévention des inondations dues aux eaux pluviales

Mrs. McCrimmon moved first reading of the following bill:

Bill 168,

An Act to implement the Low Impact Development Stormwater Management Guidance Manual and to report on stormwater management guidelines periodically / Projet de loi 168, Loi mettant en oeuvre le Manuel d’orientation sur la gestion des eaux pluviales par un aménagement à faible impact et visant la rédaction de rapports périodiques sur les lignes directrices en matière de gestion des eaux pluviales.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Is it the pleasure of the House that the motion carry? Carried.

First reading agreed to.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Would the member for Kanata–Carleton like to explain her bill?

Mrs. Karen McCrimmon: This bill would enact the Stormwater Flood Prevention Act, 2024. It would require the minister to publish a final version of the Low Impact Development Stormwater Management Guidance Manual, which is a document that provides technical and procedural guidance for planning, design and operation of stormwater management practices. The current stormwater design guidelines have not been updated for 15 years.

The act also requires the minister to prepare a report 10 years from the day the guidance document is published and every 10 years thereafter reviewing the adequacy of the guidelines and to publish that report.

Motions

House sittings

Mr. Trevor Jones: I move that, pursuant to standing order 7(c), the House shall continue to meet past the ordinary hour of adjournment until midnight on the following dates: Monday, May 6; Tuesday, May 7; Wednesday, May 8; Thursday, May 9; Monday, May 13; Tuesday, May 14; Wednesday, May 15; Thursday, May 16; Monday, May 27; Tuesday, May 28; Wednesday, May 29; Thursday, May 30; Monday, June 3; Tuesday, June 4; Wednesday, June 5; Thursday, June 6; Monday, June 10; Tuesday, June 11; Wednesday, June 12; and Thursday, June 13, 2024.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Mr. Jones, Chatham-Kent–Leamington, is moving that, pursuant to standing order 7(c), the House shall continue to meet past the ordinary hour of adjournment until midnight on the following dates: Monday, May 6—

Interjection: Dispense.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Dispense? Dispense.

Is it the pleasure of the House that the motion carry? I heard a no.

All those in favour of the motion will please say “aye.”

All those opposed will please say “nay.”

In my opinion, the ayes have it.

Motion agreed to.

Petitions

Tuition

Ms. Peggy Sattler: I am proud to present this petition on behalf of the Canadian Federation of Students–Ontario calling on the Legislature to fight the fees. It reads:

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas since 1980, whilst accounting for inflation, the average domestic undergraduate tuition has increased by 215%, and the average domestic graduate tuition by 247%; and

“Whereas upon graduation, 50% of students will have a median debt of around $17,500, which takes an average of 9.5 years to repay; and

“Whereas the average undergraduate tuition for international students has increased by 192% between 2011 and 2021, and in colleges, they pay an average of $14,306 annually compared to the average domestic fee of $3,228; and

“Whereas the government of Ontario made changes to OSAP and student financial assistance in 2018 ... resulting in over a $1-billion cut in assistance to students; and

“Whereas the so-called ‘Student Choice Initiative’ was defeated in the courts, and students need legislation to protect their right to organize and funding for students’ groups;

“Therefore we, the undersigned, support the Canadian Federation of Students–Ontario’s call and petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to commit to (1) free and accessible education for all, (2) grants, not loans, and (3) legislate students’ right to organize.”

I fully support the thousands of students who have signed this petition, affix my signature and send it to the table with page Ella.

Taxation

Ms. Bobbi Ann Brady: I have a petition in front of me: “Time Ontario Provides Relief to Families From Federal Carbon Tax.” It reads:

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas beginning November 8, 2023, the federal government announced a three-year exemption on the carbon tax on home heating oil, which is the main heat source in the Maritime provinces;

“Whereas beginning January 1, 2024, the government of Saskatchewan removed the federal carbon tax from home heating (natural gas and electricity), which will result in savings for the majority of Saskatchewan families unfairly left out of the federal government’s three-year pause of carbon tax on home heating oil;

“Whereas the federal government has unfairly discriminated against a host of other provinces like Ontario where the main heat source is natural gas, which is cleaner than heating oil; and

“Whereas carbon tax on natural gas is adding to the cost of living for Ontario families, businesses and farm operations;

“We, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to follow Saskatchewan’s lead, and remove the carbon tax from natural gas, propane and electric heat for the next three years.”

I fully support this petition and will send it to the table with Pharoah.

Tuition

Mr. Terence Kernaghan: It’s my honour to present the following petition on behalf of the thousands of students who have signed this for the Canadian Federation of Students–Ontario. It’s entitled, “Fight the Fees.” It reads:

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas since 1980, whilst accounting for inflation, the average domestic undergraduate tuition has increased by 215%, and the average domestic graduate tuition by 247%; and

“Whereas upon graduation, 50% of students will have a median debt of around $17,500, which takes an average of 9.5 years to repay; and

“Whereas the average undergraduate tuition for international students has increased by 192% between 2011 and 2021, and in colleges, they pay an average of $14,306 annually compared to the average domestic fee of $3,228; and

“Whereas the government of Ontario made changes to OSAP and student financial assistance in 2018-19, resulting in over a $1-billion cut in assistance to students; and

“Whereas the so-called Student Choice Initiative was defeated in the courts, and students need legislation to protect their right to organize and funding for students’ groups;

“Therefore we, the undersigned, support the Canadian Federation of Students–Ontario’s call and petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to commit to (1) free and accessible education for all, (2) grants, not loans, and (3) legislate students’ right to organize.”

I fully support this petition, will affix my signature and deliver it with page Sarah to the clerks.

Mr. Ted Hsu: I have a petition from Kingston and the Islands from Julie Mallette.

“Whereas the shortage and unaffordability of accessible apartments (elevator and barrier-free entrance) in Ontario has resulted in an excess of applicants to housing assistance programs. The only priority group for subsidized rent programs and portable housing benefit programs are those fleeing domestic abuse and sex trafficking, therefore physically disabled residents, living in inaccessible buildings must remain on the same lengthy wait-list as able-bodied individuals.

Furthermore, as offers for housing are based on the date of application approval, able-bodied individuals are being offered units in accessible buildings and/or funding before those not physically able to safely access their home. The resulting physical and mental deterioration translates to increased health care costs and social services costs. Secondly, disabled residents wait-listed for subsidized modified apartment units, who accept the portable housing benefit to, at minimum, live with in a building with an elevator, become ineligible for a modified subsidized apartment, and remain unsafe;

“We, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario as follows:

“

(1) Make physically disabled residents currently residing in inaccessible buildings a priority group for housing assistance programs;

“

(2) Allow those who accept the portable housing benefit to move to an accessible entry building, but require a modified apartment, to remain eligible for subsidized rent programs for the modified unit;

“

(3) Increase funding to the portable housing benefit program so that low-income, physically disabled residents can have choice in where they live, and reduce the years of wait time;” and finally,

“

(4) Increase the number of modified units being built for the physically disabled.”

Tuition

Mrs. Jennifer (Jennie) Stevens: I’m honoured to rise to present this petition on behalf of thousands of students from the Canadian Federation of Students–Ontario. I also would like to thank Sydney Black from University of Guelph.

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas since 1980, whilst accounting for inflation, the average domestic undergraduate tuition has increased by 215%, and the average domestic graduate tuition by 247%; and

“Whereas upon graduation, 50% of students will have a median debt of around $17,500, which takes an average of 9.5 years to repay; and

“Whereas the average undergraduate tuition for international students has increased by 192% between 2011 and 2021, and in colleges, they pay an average of $14,306 annually compared to the average domestic fee of $3,228; and

“Whereas the government of Ontario made changes to OSAP and student financial assistance in 2018-19, resulting in over a $1-billion cut in assistance to students; and

“Whereas the so-called Student Choice Initiative was defeated in the courts, students need legislation to protect their right to organize and funding for students’ groups;

“Therefore we, the undersigned, support the Canadian Federation of Students–Ontario’s call and petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to commit to (1) free and accessible education for all, (2) grants, not loans, and (3) legislate students’ right to organize.”

I’m going to affix my name to this and full-heartedly support the 1,000 students that are on these petitions, and I’m going to hand it to page Skye.

Social assistance

Mr. Ted Hsu: This is a petition from Sally Palmer and others.

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas Ontario’s social assistance rates are well below Canada’s official Market Basket Measure poverty line and far from adequate to cover the rising costs of food and rent: $733 for individuals on OW and $1,308 for ODSP;

“Whereas an open letter to the Premier and two cabinet ministers, signed by over 230 organizations, recommends that social assistance rates be doubled for both Ontario Works (OW) and the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP);

“Whereas small increases to ODSP have still left these citizens below the poverty line. Both they and those receiving the frozen OW rates are struggling to survive at this time of alarming inflation;

“We, the undersigned citizens of Ontario, petition the Legislative Assembly to double social assistance rates for OW and ODSP.”

Tuition

Ms. Catherine Fife: I want to thank the amazing students from Wilfrid Laurier University for collecting these signatures. This is entitled “Fight the Fees.”

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas since 1980, whilst accounting for inflation, the average domestic undergraduate tuition has increased by 215%, and the average domestic graduate tuition by 247%; and

“Whereas upon graduation, 50% of students will have a median debt of around $17,500, which takes an average of 9.5 years to repay; and

“Whereas the average undergraduate tuition for international students has increased by 192% between 2011 and 2021, and in colleges, they pay an average of $14,306 annually compared to the average domestic fee of $3,228; and

“Whereas the government of Ontario made changes to OSAP and student financial assistance in 2018-19, resulting in over a $1-billion cut in assistance to students; and

“Whereas the so-called Student Choice Initiative was defeated in the courts, students need legislation to protect their right to organize and funding for students’ groups;

“Therefore we, the undersigned, support the Canadian Federation of Students–Ontario’s call and petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to commit to (1) free and accessible education for all, (2) grants, not loans, and (3) legislate students’ right to organize.”

It’s my pleasure to affix my signature, and I will be giving this to page Charles.

Land use planning

Ms. Bobbi Ann Brady: I have a petition in front of me:

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas Haldimand county has requested a minister’s zoning order (MZO) to accelerate the development of a proposed city of 40,000 people on industrially zoned buffer land in the Nanticoke industrial park; and

“Whereas the housing development will grow the population of the Port Dover-Nanticoke area from approximately 7,000 to 47,000 people; and

“Whereas this development will have a significant impact on infrastructure such as roadways; and

“Whereas 40,000 people living in the Nanticoke industrial park buffer zone is a threat to area jobs in steelmaking, oil refining and the related trades;

“We, the undersigned, ask the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to not grant the Haldimand county request for an MZO.”

I fully support this petition, will affix my signature and send it to the table with page Sarah.

Tuition

Ms. Jennifer K. French: I’m pleased to present a petition from the Canadian Federation of Students–Ontario. Thousands of students have put their name on this petition to the government and it is:

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas since 1980, whilst accounting for inflation, the average domestic undergraduate tuition has increased by 215%, and the average domestic graduate tuition by 247%; and

“Whereas upon graduation, 50% of students will have a median debt of around $17,500, which takes an average of 9.5 years to repay; and

“Whereas the average undergraduate tuition for international students has increased by 192% between 2011 and 2021, and in colleges, they pay an average of $14,306 annually compared to the average domestic fee of $3,228; and

“Whereas the government of Ontario made changes to OSAP and student financial assistance in 2018-19, resulting in over a $1-billion cut in assistance to students; and

“Whereas the so-called Student Choice Initiative was defeated in the courts. Students need legislation to protect their right to organize and funding for students’ groups;

“Therefore we, the undersigned, support the Canadian Federation of Students–Ontario’s call and petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to commit to (1) free and accessible education for all, (2) grants, not loans, and (3) legislate students’ right to organize.”

I stand alongside thousands of students and will affix my signature to this and send it to the table with page Charles.

Energy policies

MPP Jamie West: I want to thank Elizabeth Carswell for collecting these signatures for this petition. It is titled “Transform Ontario’s Energy Sector.

“Whereas residents are struggling with energy bill increases and need relief; and

“Whereas natural gas is no longer the cheapest way to heat homes because electric heat pumps are now much more efficient, can provide all heating needs even in cold climates, and result in far lower energy bills compared to gas heating; and

“Whereas natural gas is methane gas, which is a fossil fuel that causes approximately one third of Ontario’s GHG emissions and must be phased out because it is inconsistent with all climate targets, while heat pumps result in the lowest GHG emissions and are consistent with a zero-carbon future; and

“Whereas the natural gas expansion program provides subsidies to bring natural gas to communities across Ontario but currently cannot be redirected by municipalities toward the best option for their residents—heat pumps; and

“Whereas far more residents could achieve far lower energy bills if municipalities were allowed to redirect those subsidies toward heat pumps for their residents, which would also benefit existing natural gas customers by reducing the financial risks they bear in relation to the gas expansion projects; and

“Whereas the government of Ontario is considering requests from Enbridge Gas Inc. to reduce oversight by the Ontario Energy Board over gas expansion and other pipeline projects at a time when the Ontario Energy Board’s technical and financial expertise is critical as the energy transition takes place;

“We, the undersigned, call upon the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to:

“

(1) Amend the natural gas expansion program to allow municipalities to redirect funds toward heat pumps, including for ongoing phase 2 projects; and

“

(2) Ask the Ontario Energy Board to determine in gas expansion leave-to-construct applications which option would result in the lowest energy bills—directing the subsidy to gas expansion or to heat pump subsidies.”

I support this petition, I’ll affix my signature and provide it to page Mesapé.

Orders of the Day

Keeping Energy Costs Down Act, 2024 / Loi de 2024 visant à maintenir la facture énergétique à un niveau abordable

Mr. Todd Smith moved second reading of the following bill:

Bill 165,

An Act to amend the Ontario Energy Board Act, 1998 respecting certain Board proceedings and related matters / Projet de loi 165, Loi modifiant la Loi de 1998 sur la Commission de l’énergie de l’Ontario en ce qui concerne certaines instances dont la Commission est saisie et des questions connexes.

The Acting Speaker (Ms. Bhutila Karpoche): I turn it back to the minister.

Hon. Todd Smith: Good afternoon to all my colleagues in the Legislature here today. It’s been a while since I have spoken for an hour in the Legislature. So sit back, relax and enjoy the show for the next 60 minutes.

Second reading of Bill 165, the Keeping Energy Costs Down Act, 2024: If you get one thing today, Madam Speaker, I think it will be how critical this bill is to keeping housing and energy costs down for families. At a time where global and countrywide pressures like inflation and increasing building costs are forcing housing prices up, I think this bill should be a no-brainer for all of the parties in the Legislature who are looking to provide some relief to their constituents.

This new legislation is going to build housing faster, it’s going to save money and it’s going to protect customer choice, something that we are focused on doing here in the PC government. The way that we’re going to protect customer choice is by providing the government with time-limited authority to reverse this OEB decision on natural gas connection costs that would have significantly increased the price of new homes and businesses across our province.

We’re introducing new requirements as well for the Ontario Energy Board to engage broadly with stakeholders on major energy decisions that impact our constituents, and modernizing the Ontario Energy Board’s leave-to-construct process for the first time in more than 20 years.

Each of these changes would cut red tape and ensure new homebuyers and businesses continue to have access to reliable and affordable energy from the source of their choice, and removing red tape, as I mentioned earlier.

Back when I was the red tape minister, we were focused on ensuring that we were cutting red tape across the province by 25% and therefore making it a more efficient jurisdiction to do business in. As a result of the work that was done by me back in 2018-19, by my predecessor, Minister Fedeli, and by Minister Gill, we have reduced a significant amount of red tape—about $9 billion each and every year on the cost of doing business in Ontario.

The proposals in Bill 165 also represent this government’s ongoing commitment to creating an energy system that meets Ontario’s growing demand while driving innovation and moving our economy forward. While cutting that red tape, getting our electricity prices under control and creating a jurisdiction for investment, we are seeing energy demand grow. Since day one, we have worked to prioritize the ratepayer, keep those costs down, make the policy environment around energy predictable and the system stable, and give consumers more choice in how they track and control their energy use and their costs.

While that may like seem a common-sense approach to doing business, I can tell you that common sense hasn’t always prevailed in Ontario’s energy planning space. In fact, it’s really easy to remember when the previous Liberal government presided over the fastest-rising hydro prices in North America, when the hydro average bill tripled—tripled, Madam Speaker—between 2003 and 2018, and families saw their bills increase by more than a thousand dollars per year. I can tell you, at my home in Quinte West, my average bill went from $220 a month to $660 a month when the Liberals were in charge of our electricity system.

And there are some members who were over there on the NDP bench right now—none of the Liberals are there because they were all voted out; they have been voted out since. But there are some members of the NDP caucus who were here during that time, and they know how inundated our constituency offices were from people who were absolutely fearful about the costs of electricity in their homes. That’s not the case anymore. Those sky-high electricity costs that we were experiencing in Ontario chased 300,000 manufacturing jobs out of our province.

This legislation that has been introduced is just another way that we’re delivering on all the work that we’ve been doing since day one to make energy and housing in this province affordable again. Just think: We have cut the gas tax, again, through June of this year. We’re saving families $312 a year through the Ontario Electricity Rebate. We’re investing an additional $50 million in the Ontario Electricity Support Program, which is delivered by the Ontario Energy Board, to help those who need it most. We have launched the Clean Home Heating Initiative, with incentives of up to $4,500 per household to roll out electric air-source heat pumps paired with an existing natural gas furnace.

We’ve scrapped the previous Liberal government’s cap-and-trade carbon tax that punished people and businesses. And unlike the current crop of Liberals, the ones that are still here, and their new leader, Bonnie Crombie—who has refused for the past week to come out against the tax, even though we all know that she supports a carbon tax—we have introduced legislation to protect the people of Ontario from any future carbon tax.

We’ve heard the same old song and dance from the few Liberals who are here. The member from Kanata–Carleton, who is a new member to the Legislature, stood up in this House just before Christmas saying that the people of Ontario were better off because of the crippling federal Liberal carbon tax. Now, she’s a former federal Liberal MP, so I guess you can understand why she would say that. But is she bringing that same kind of thinking here to the Ontario Legislature again?

The Liberal energy critic from Kingston, who is here with us today, wants us to go back to the failed Liberal energy policies of the Green Energy Act. He posted in a tweet about three weeks ago that if we had not cancelled all of those Green Energy Act contracts—those 800 contracts that would have driven up the cost of electricity in our province by a billion dollars on top of what we’re already experiencing—we’d be better off.

So I think we know what this current crop of Liberals and their brand new leader are thinking when it comes to a carbon tax and the kind of chaos that they would bring to energy costs in the province of Ontario. Again, we can’t go back there, Madam Speaker. We have to move forward with prices that are reliable and affordable, and have a system that’s clean and safe.

All of the work that we have done since 2018 has paved the way for us to move boldly forward as a leader in economic growth and reliable, affordable and clean energy. For example, Ontario is quickly becoming a leader in electric vehicles and battery development, with historic investments at Stellantis down in Windsor, to Volkswagen in the St. Thomas-London area, and in eastern Ontario at the brand new Umicore plant, which is going to be opening in Loyalist township.

We’re also seeing major investments in green steelmaking in two communities: Sault Ste. Marie in the north and also Hamilton. And while the traditional steelmaking process of using coal and coke is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the province, we’re working with the federal government and the steel industry to end the use of coal and electrify their operations to support the production of green steel that’s going to fuel our growing automotive sector that we are seeing here in the province.

Imagine, Madam Speaker, just what a difference those electric arc furnaces are going to make. I want you to picture driving from Burlington over that Skyway bridge into Hamilton and looking off to the right at the Hamilton waterfront and seeing those massive piles of coal that are sitting there on the waterfront. Once these electric arc furnaces are up and running, there won’t be any piles of coal there, and we can look forward to developing a brand new waterfront that has lots of restaurants and bars and economic development and good things happening there.

Interjections.

Hon. Todd Smith: Yes. We’re exploring innovative new solutions in our world-class nuclear sector as well, with cutting-edge advancements in medical life-saving isotopes and small modular reactors, or SMRs. In fact, we’re making progress on developing the country’s first grid-scale SMR at the Darlington new nuclear site. This isn’t only a first for Canada, but it’s a first for the Western world and G7 countries. As a result, we’re attracting major interest from around the world, helping us open new export opportunities for our province in countries like Poland and Estonia and the Czech Republic, and the list goes on and on.

This incredible economic growth, alongside a population that’s forecast to increase by millions of people by the end of this decade, means that we need a lot more energy. One of the biggest drivers of that demand is our government’s plan to build one and a half million new homes for Ontario’s growing population by 2031. Bill 165, if passed, would make the legislative changes needed to help ensure that these homes get built faster and that the families who buy them have affordable choices for home heating.

But before we get too far into that discussion, I think we really need to set the playing field and consider where we are today. If you look broadly at our province’s entire energy demand, natural gas currently meets 39% while electricity only meets 21%. If you look at home heating, natural gas plays an even bigger role. It’s the primary heating source for approximately 70% of the people in this province, or about 3.8 million homes. While our government is supporting new options through the Clean Home Heating Initiative that I mentioned earlier, we still need to ensure that we have broad access to all forms of heating, and that includes natural gas.

That’s why I was extremely disappointed in an Ontario Energy Board decision that was made just before Christmas in late December that would effectively increase the cost of new homes. In an unusual two-to-one split decision, and this is very unusual at the OEB, the Ontario Energy Board reduced the revenue horizon—that’s the period of time that natural gas utilities use to calculate the upfront costs of new gas connections—for new residential and small commercial gas connections from 40 years, which has been in existence for almost 30 years—amortizing the cost from 40 years down to zero years by January 1 of next year.

What this means is that natural gas connection costs, which are normally paid over those five years, would be owed in full upfront, and that would lead to thousands of dollars added to the cost of building new homes. To be frank, the OEB simply strayed out of its jurisdiction, out of its lane when making this decision. It’s not only a huge departure from the realities of our energy system, but it’s also a huge departure from the historical practice which, as I say, has been in place for nearly 30 years—since 1998.

In fact, according to the OEB’s own decision, the cost of a new home would increase by about $4,400 on average across the province. Yes, that’s bad enough, adding $4,400 to the cost of a new home. But it would cost significantly more, in the tens of thousands of dollars, for farms and residences in rural and northern Ontario that have access to these natural gas pipelines. Think what happens when a residence in rural or northern Ontario can’t connect to natural gas.

I’m sure there are some members of the NDP and maybe a few in the Liberals who would just tell them to go buy an electric heat pump and hope for the best. As a matter of fact, we just heard the member from Sudbury supporting a petition in the Legislature telling them to do exactly that. But in Ontario, especially in the harsh winters that you can experience here in Canada, in northern Ontario in particular, that may not be a realistic option.

Madam Speaker, I installed a heat pump at my house a number of years ago. I really like it. I don’t have access to natural gas where I live because I live out in the boonies in Quinte West. But even during a southern Ontario winter, even during a winter like this one that’s been pretty mild compared to other winter seasons, my furnace—my electric furnace—still kicks on on the coldest days of the year to keep my house warm, meaning that the electric open air heat pump can’t always heat my home.

So what do you do, Madam Speaker, if the NDP or the Liberals or the Greens had their way? They would have everybody on open air heat pumps, and there would be times during the year where people actually would be freezing in their home because they can’t keep their house warm. If folks in northern and rural Ontario don’t have access to natural gas like those in the big cities do, they’re often forced to rely on home heating oil or propane, which are more emitting than natural gas is and they’re also more expensive.

Now, one argument I’ve already heard from the opposition is that this additional cost of connecting to natural gas is carried by the developer and it’s not—

Ms. Catherine Fife: And passed on to the homeowner.

Hon. Todd Smith: —carried by the homebuyer.

So now you are saying it’s passed on to the homebuyer, okay. Because previously, you weren’t saying that. But then again, we just had the critic responsible for energy in question period actually concerned about the cost of natural gas for people in Ontario and the critic for labour from northern Ontario just saying that everybody should basically rip out their natural gas and go with an electric heat pump. So they’ve been spinning over there, and they don’t know exactly what their position is.

Speaker, I think it’s important that we take a moment before we get into the broader debate to be clear about how ridiculous the argument is that the home builder or the developer is going to carry the upfront cost of this and it’s not going to be passed on to the consumer. Let me give you just a few real-world examples of much it could cost to connect a new home, business or development to the natural gas system if you had to pay up front.

In the GTA, connecting a new recreation and wellness centre could see an upfront connection charge of about $128,000. On a new 39-home subdivision—actually in your riding, the Minister of Labour’s riding, in Campbellford—it would cost about $357,000 up front. That’s more than $9,000 a home. A recent restaurant project in southwestern Ontario would see an upfront charge of about $18,000. There’s even one other example here that I’ve got: A recent three-building condominium here in the GTA would see an upfront connection charge of approximately $1,065,000.

This bill, Bill 165, would keep costs down by allowing those costs to be paid off over 40 years, amortized over 40 years, instead of all up front. That’s a big win for the taxpayer. It’s a big win for the business owner. And, more importantly, it’s a real win for the homebuyer—that new homebuyer that’s trying to enter the market.

There’s only one party in the Legislature that actually cares about keeping the cost of new homes down and that’s the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario.

Because at a time when Ontario, like the rest of Canada, is already grappling with high interest rates and inflationary pressures along with the impact of terrible federal policies like the carbon tax, we can’t in good conscience take any action that would raise prices on the backs of those first-time homebuyers and moms and dads, like me, who want to get their kids out of the house and into their own home and start building their own equity, or those younger moms and dads, unlike me, who are looking for more space for their growing families.

Speaker, we definitely can’t let it stand in the way when we had well over 200 requests from Ontario municipalities to expand access to natural gas in their communities.

Now, I go to the ROMA, the Rural Ontario Municipal Association, conference every year, and AMO, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, every year. And my very, very capable parliamentary assistant here, Mr. Sarrazin, from eastern Ontario, sits and listens to municipal delegations where they’re begging us for natural gas expansion projects in their communities because they want to have this low-cost, reliable, affordable energy in their communities for their constituents and for new homeowners.

As a government elected with a mandate to rebuild Ontario’s economy and keep costs down for people and businesses and build the homes our growing province needs, we simply can’t stand for that cost being borne by those new homeowners. That’s why Bill 165 will allow us to reverse the specific part of the OEB decision, protect future homebuyers and keep shovels in the ground at a time where we’ve got a goal to build 1.5 million homes by 2031.

Speaker, reversing the decision alone isn’t enough if we don’t address the issues that got us to this place. While the Ontario Energy Board makes hundreds of decisions every year—the OEB is making all kinds of decisions on rate applications every day and, to their credit, almost all of them have been without issue. This one particular issue, though, did raise some concerns about public engagement in the decision-making process.

In fact, in the decision itself, one of the commissioners—the dissenting commissioner—noted that the decision on natural gas connection costs was reached without input from key stakeholders, like the people that build homes, like construction companies, like the contractors, like the farmers that were going to be able to access natural gas in their communities, the people and the businesses who actually build the homes, the farmers in this province.

The same commissioner—Commissioner Duff is her name—also noted that this decision, which could have significant impacts on electricity demand, was reached without any input at all from the Independent Electricity System Operator, the IESO. To quote from that dissenting commissioner, “Is the scenario of no-new-gas-connections, replaced by construction of all-electric developments, feasible? For example, would electricity generators, transmitters, distributors and the IESO be able to meet Ontario’s energy demands in 2025?” She answers her own question. “I don’t know,” she says. The commissioner said, “I don’t know,” Madam Speaker.

Let me tell you, as Ontario’s Minister of Energy, that was quite a concerning quote t