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August 30, 2022

43rd Parliament, 1st Session

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Hansard Transcripts

Votes and Proceedings

Orders and Notices

Hansard Transcript 2022-Aug-30 (PDF)

L012 - Tue 30 Aug 2022 / Mar 30 aoû 2022

LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF ONTARIO

ASSEMBLÉE LÉGISLATIVE DE L’ONTARIO

Tuesday 30 August 2022 Mardi 30 août 2022

Orders of the Day

Members’ expenditures

Julia Munro

Members’ Statements

Yosef Mokir Shabbos

Events in Oshawa

Scarborough Shooting Stars

Mental health and addiction services

College funding

Mental health and addiction services

Sports and recreation funding

Mental health and addiction services

Ukrainian Independence Day

Ontario Regiment

Introduction of Visitors

Legislative pages

Question Period

Long-term-care

Nurses

Northern health services

GO Transit

Emergency services

Community safety / Sécurité communautaire

Employment standards

Long-term care

Manufacturing jobs

Social assistance

Mental health and addiction services

Education

Social assistance

Ring of Fire

Long-term care / Home care

Deferred Votes

Plan to Build Act (Budget Measures), 2022 / Loi de 2022 pour favoriser le développement (mesures budgétaires)

More Beds, Better Care Act, 2022 / Loi de 2022 pour plus de lits et de meilleurs soins

Throne speech debate

Correction of record

Introduction of Visitors

Introduction of Bills

No Time to Waste Act (Plan for Climate Action and Jobs), 2022 / Loi de 2022 sur la nécessité de ne pas gaspiller de temps (plan en matière d’action pour le climat et l’emploi)

Fairness for Road Users Act (Contraventions Causing Death or Serious Bodily Harm), 2022 / Loi de 2022 sur l’équité envers les usagers de la route (contraventions ayant causé un décès ou des blessures corporelles graves)

Racial Equity in the Education System Act, 2022 / Loi de 2022 sur l’équité raciale dans le système d’éducation

Abuse Prevention Week Act, 2022 / Loi de 2022 sur la Semaine de la prévention des mauvais traitements

Petitions

Services de santé dans le Nord

Injured workers

Organ donation

Social assistance

Front-line workers

Multiple sclerosis

Highway safety

Anti-vaping initiatives for youth

Retirement homes

Emergency services

Orders of the Day

More Beds, Better Care Act, 2022 / Loi de 2022 pour plus de lits et de meilleurs soins

The House met at 0900.

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

Prayers.

Orders of the Day

Members’ expenditures

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I beg to inform the House that I have laid upon the table the individual members’ expenditures for the fiscal year 2021-22.

Julia Munro

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I recognize the government House leader.

Hon. Paul Calandra: Mr. Speaker, if you seek it, you will find unanimous consent to allow members to make statements in remembrance for the late Mrs. Julia Munro, with five minutes allotted to Her Majesty’s loyal opposition, five minutes allotted to the independent members as a group and five minutes allotted to Her Majesty’s government.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Mr. Calandra is seeking the unanimous consent of the House to allow members to make statements in remembrance of the late Mrs. Julia Munro, with five minutes allotted to Her Majesty’s loyal opposition, five minutes allotted to the independent members as a group and five minutes allotted to Her Majesty’s government. Agreed? Agreed.

Today we are honoured to remember and pay tribute to a former member of our provincial Legislature, the late Mrs. Julia Munro, who was the MPP for Durham–York during the 36th Parliament; York North during the 37th and 38th Parliaments; and York–Simcoe during the 39th, 40th and 41st Parliaments.

Joining us in the Speaker’s gallery is Mr. David Warner, who was Speaker during the 35th Parliament. We are also joined by Jane McKenna, who was the member for Burlington in the 42nd and 40th provincial Parliaments.

Mrs. Munro’s family is watching the tribute from home this morning.

I’ll begin by recognizing the member for Oshawa.

Ms. Jennifer K. French: It is always an honour to stand in this proud Legislature, and today it is my honour to stand to share on behalf of Ontario New Democrats and to pay tribute to Julia Munro.

I am pleased to acknowledge Julia’s family and friends today on behalf of the Legislature. Julia is survived by her husband of 54 years, John; her daughter, Genevieve, and her son-in-law, Andrew Hay; and her sister, Cynthia Puente. I know that Julia’s cherished friends, family and special animal family will be watching today.

When we pay tribute to former MPPs, it is a chance to remember them, to recognize their work and celebrate their lasting impact. It is my honour to share a few words on behalf of the official opposition.

Julia Ann Louise Campbell started her journey on June 30, 1942, in Hamilton, Ontario, and was raised in Toronto. Her passion for animals began at age 14 when she started competing show dogs, something that would last a lifetime.

Julia taught high school history for 24 years and loved it, and her students remember the impact that she had had on them. One of her former students, Tyler Stewart, shared this tribute: “Mrs. Munro was one of my favourite teachers ever. She always seemed to respect my intellect and encourage deeper examinations of the topics she covered in history class. Great teachers are so essential to developing minds, and Julia was one of the greatest.”

Another former student, Kerry Wilson, shared: Julia was “the best teacher I ever had. My mental image of Julia Munro won’t be standing in the provincial Legislature, but sitting on a student desk and challenging us to think critically about the material being studied.”

Julia was also committed to democracy and public engagement. She first ran for office in 1995 and remarked that she was tired of sitting around the kitchen table complaining about politics and decided to get involved. She was elected to the Harris government of 82 MPPs and was one of only 11 women. During her career, Munro served as parliamentary assistant to the Premier, Deputy Speaker and as a legislative committee chair. She served in government and opposition and held a number of critic portfolios.

Julia Munro served six terms as the PC MPP for the Durham–York, then the York North and finally the York–Simcoe ridings. She was the longest-serving female politician in Ontario’s Legislature after nearly 22 years of service.

Julia introduced six pieces of private members’ legislation, and, as an animal lover, she was proud to bring forward a bill to fight puppy and kitten mills and to levy significant fines on animal abusers.

Another signature piece of legislation was Julia’s Magna Carta Day Act, 2015. In her own words, “As parliamentarians we have a duty to uphold the traditional values that Magna Carta laid out 800 years ago. Although the Magna Carta placed specific limits on the power of the monarch, we must remember that, although elected by the citizens, we, as lawmakers, are also not above the law. When members of the government forget this—that all laws apply to us as well—voters become disengaged, skeptical, cynical and, indeed, apathetic.”

Julia explained, “The bill is one sentence long. It costs no money. It won’t affect anyone’s agenda. But democracy demands attention and I’m as passionate about this as the day I walked in here.”

Julia’s commitment to service and democracy never wavered during her 22 years in this House. As she shared with many of us in this House not too long ago:

“I’m pleased to say that I can walk in here 21 years later and still feel that tremendous aura of what this building represents.”

“I have never lost my enthusiasm for public service; however, in any career, there comes a time to retire.”

“Nobody can do this job alone. I am forever grateful to my family, staff, volunteers and constituents for their faith and trust in me over the years.”

Julia worked to ensure future generations grow up in the kind of society we value. She said, “You have to know what it is you are voting for and we, as people who recognize the value of the democratic system, need to be better and more prepared to extend that understanding, to realize what is anathema to democracy, and to remind everyone that what we have is unique and precious....

“The people who sent you are the most important thing to remember. There are always difficult decisions in government. You can name your top 10, but it’s the people you represent and what matters most to them that should always be first and foremost.”

And for Julia, that was always true.

Julia Munro passed away on June 12, 2019.

Many of us in this House were here when Julia’s Magna Carta Day Act was brought forward by former colleagues and was finally made law during the last session of this Legislature, and now every June 15 is recognized as Magna Carta Day in Ontario, which Julia had hoped would serve to remind us every year in this Legislature “that we are the keepers of democracy, that our actions do have consequences and that our words have weight.”

Julia’s daughter, Genevieve, remembered that, “She had a great impact on many lives—as a teacher, as a dog enthusiast, and later as a politician. One of the lessons I learned from my mother was to be true to myself.”

Another lesson that Julia Munro wanted all of us to learn was written on the frame around her licence plate. It said, “Democracy: Don’t waste it.” I know we will do our best to bear that in mind as we begin a new session of the Legislature. Julia once described this political system as “a wild garden that needs tending.” During her time here, and in service to her community, Julia Munro planted and nurtured many seeds that she is remembered for: seeds of kindness, warmth, grace and an unyielding commitment to democratic ideals.

Speaker, that we should all be so remembered.

Thank you to Julia’s loved ones for sharing her with this province, and thank you, Julia, for so many dedicated years of service.

Applause.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The member for Beaches–East York.

Ms. Mary-Margaret McMahon: On this beautiful day, I too would like to take time to honour the legacy of Julia Munro, or Lady Munro, as she was so affectionately known around the Legislature. With 23 years of service as MPP of Durham–York, York North and, finally, York–Simcoe, she is remembered as the longest-serving woman MPP and an inspiration for women in politics in this province and beyond.

After working as a history teacher in Markham and Newmarket for 24 years, Lady Munro made the bold choice to run for office in 1995, when she won with an impressive margin. Among her many roles, Lady Munro worked as a parliamentary assistant to Premier Mike Harris, deputy opposition House leader, and deputy House Speaker. The work she did during her time as an MPP was pivotal, and she went on to introduce six bills in the Legislature before her retirement from politics in 2018.

Each year, on June 15, we continue to honour Lady Munro on Magna Carta Day, as was mentioned before, through the Magna Carta Day Act (In Memory of Julia Munro, MPP), which remembers the document King John affixed in 1215 that introduced key principles that hold true in democratic societies today, including equal justice for everyone, freedom from unlawful detention, the right to a trial by jury, and rights for women.

Lady Munro was known for her passion for animals in her personal and professional life. As an animal lover myself, I’m grateful for the important work Lady Munro did to protect the well-being of our furry friends. Her bill, the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment Act, 2001, helped to ban puppy and kitten mills and prevent the inhumane treatment of animals. Our pets become a part of our family, and Lady Munro’s work has helped to protect them, as they so deserve.

Lady Munro was truly a trailblazer for women politicians in this province. At a time when it wasn’t a given for us to have a seat at the table, she got involved. As a mother and wife myself, I know first-hand how difficult it can be to step up and pursue a path in politics. She sacrificed time with her family to advocate for her community and make meaningful change, which we can still see the effects of to this day.

Women and girls in this province can look to Lady Munro as an inspiration and to see that, yes, you can and you should have a voice in politics. Across party lines, having women in the Legislature is crucial to creating an equitable and equal political landscape in this province, and Lady Munro was a shining example of this.

I’d like to leave you with the quote that was mentioned before—I can’t believe she had this on her licence plate; I think it’s amazing: “Democracy: Don’t waste it.”

Ontarians are lucky to have had her serve as a representative.

I am proud to continue her legacy as a woman in this Legislature, and I so strongly respect the work she did during her long service as an MPP.

May she continue to rest in peace.

Applause.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The member for Guelph.

Mr. Mike Schreiner: I’m honoured today to rise to pay tribute to the late MPP Julia Munro, known affectionately as Lady Munro. As a respected educator and exemplary MPP from 1995 to 2018—an incredible 23 years; the longest-serving woman MPP in Ontario’s history. She was a trailblazer and a fierce advocate for her constituents and her students.

Mrs. Munro was known for having friends on both sides of the aisle. It wasn’t until yesterday, when I was going through Hansard, that I stumbled upon a tribute she actually paid to me, for the role I played in advocating for the Waste-Free Ontario Act in 2016. But that’s the type of person Julia was—somebody willing to work across party lines and share the spotlight with others to put people first.

I first met Julia in the early 2000s, when I was working with the Holland Marsh Growers’ Association to promote local food and farmers, and I can tell you, she was a fierce advocate to support and nurture local food sources and the farmers that grow that food. As a hobby farmer and gardener, Lady Munro knew the value and the importance of nurturing those local food sources.

As a staunch supporter of democracy, rural communities, small businesses and especially animals, Ms. Munro was an exemplary political model for so many people, including myself.

Speaker, I want to leave us with her commitment to democracy. Now, more than ever, that legacy of her commitment to democracy is needed in our world, and we will be forever grateful for the work that she did in this House for our province.

And so to her family who’s watching, I want to thank you for sharing Lady Munro with us. May she rest in peace.

Applause.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The member for York–Simcoe, Minister of Transportation and Minister of Francophone Affairs.

Hon. Caroline Mulroney: It is a privilege to rise in this House today to pay tribute to the late Julia Munro. As the longest-serving female MPP in Ontario’s history, Julia truly was a trailblazer for so many of us sitting in this Legislature today, but she was also a friend and a mentor.

Beloved in her community of York–Simcoe and adored by her husband, John, and daughter, Genevieve, Julia’s dedication to public service touched so many, and she continues today to be nothing short of an inspiration for men and women alike.

Julia entered the political arena at a time when it wasn’t always easy for women to do so. And as a new politician, I can tell you that she encouraged me as a female politician in so many ways.

Julia was always herself. She was fierce, but she was always elegant and poised, and that’s why she was referred to as Lady Munro here at Queen’s Park but also across York–Simcoe.

Julia battled cancer, but she kept working. She was elected six times and represented the various iterations of York–Simcoe for 23 years.

There is little doubt that Julia’s work and advocacy has made a lasting impact for generations. The Bradford Bypass, which is a project that our government is moving forward with, was championed by Julia for 23 years. She recognized the need for this connecting link because of the growth in our communities, and she was right. It was her work that got the first environmental assessment done in 2002. That is a significant milestone for this project. And to this day, people across our riding are supportive of this project. Our government will get it done, and I know that Julia would be pleased and her family should be proud.

Before entering politics, Julia was a teacher for more than two decades, and in this role she had a lasting impact on the lives of so many residents of York–Simcoe. It was always so lovely when I got the chance to see her interact with one of her former students, which happened quite often as we travelled around the riding together. They would hug her, they would share a memory with her, and they would always thank her for being a wonderful and inspiring teacher to them. They never forgot her. They looked up to her, and how could they not? As a teacher, Julia understood the importance of protecting the interests of the next generation.

I’m so pleased that former MPP from Burlington Jane McKenna is here today, because it was under Jane’s leadership that we reintroduced Julia’s PMB, and our government was so proud that we were able to make that a reality and that this PMB was passed unanimously in 2020.

It’s not just in the Legislature that Julia promoted democratic values, it was everywhere she went, including on the road. Her licence plate frame proudly displayed the motto, “Democracy: Don’t wear it out,” and as Minister of Transportation, I have a great appreciation for this. In fact, I even asked her if I could take over that licence plate cover, and she said I’d have to earn it.

Through her unapologetic stance on key issues, Julia went on to introduce six bills in the Legislature and managed to garner respect across party lines. She was a fierce advocate for her constituents at Queen’s Park, and she never took that privilege for granted. Her commitment to her core values and beliefs helped create a legacy that will continue to shine brightly for generations.

Thank you to John and Genevieve for sharing her with us for so many years and for supporting her and encouraging her. I can tell you that Julia is deeply missed in her former riding, but her legacy is long-lasting and will live on. As the MPP for York–Simcoe, I am humbled to be continuing much of the important work that Julia started many years ago.

Applause.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I want to thank the members for those eloquent tributes as, together, we give thanks for the life and public service of Julia Munro.

Orders of the day? I recognize the government House leader.

Hon. Paul Calandra: No further business.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): There being no further business at this time, this House stands in recess until 10:15.

The House recessed from 0921 to 1015.

Members’ Statements

Yosef Mokir Shabbos

Ms. Laura Smith: My riding of Thornhill is filled with hard-working, innovative self-starters. I talked about them a bit in my maiden speech yesterday. And on the topic of hard work, I want to pay special tribute to the many hard-working people with small businesses within Thornhill who came here with very little and created something from nothing.

With that being said, I would like to show praise to a local business in our riding known as Yosef Mokir Shabbos, owned by a man named Moshe Wolfson, whose journey originates in Israel. He came to Canada not so long ago in hopes of a better life for himself and his family. This new takeout business offers a huge selection of fish and prepared food, with more than 40 types of salads, dips and meals that will help our busy families put food on the table. And I forgot to mention, Mr. Speaker: The food is completely kosher—very delicious.

The name of his storefront, Yosef Mokir Shabbos, comes from Jewish folklore. The story presents itself with a poor man who buys a fish, only to discover a diamond within that fish. He uses this to feed his family and provide for a future. This is exactly what Moshe did, a newcomer in 2017 with little to nothing. Then he opened a takeout restaurant amid the pandemic, employed individuals and serviced our community, leading him to open a second store just a few weeks ago.

He continues to be an inspiration not only for myself, but the rest of the innovative and hard-working community that resides in Thornhill—just one Thornhill success story depicting solid determination and starting from something that was nothing, and then growing into something more and then something more.

I will continue to work hard for the people of my community, Mr. Speaker, cutting red tape for businesses and building for a stronger Thornhill and Ontario.

Events in Oshawa

Ms. Jennifer K. French: Oshawa has a very rich and awesome history when it comes to automotive. Since Sam McLaughlin dreamed of innovation in a vibrant motor city, Oshawa has been connected to the story of cars and innovation. We have stood in this Legislature and talked about the future of electric vehicles and the next

chapter in Ontario’s automotive future.

Speaker, summer is auto season where I live. When the weather gets good, the parking lots fill up with classic cars and show-and-shine events. Today, I want to talk about the awesome classic cars and trucks and vehicles that celebrated together in Oshawa this past weekend. Oshawa was host to classic cars from far and wide. Friday was Kars on King downtown, and then, on Saturday and Sunday, it was our famous Autofest.

I would like to congratulate and appreciate the city of Oshawa and organizers of Kars on King, which was a roaring success. Neighbours and car fans lined the streets, filled patios and were almost as glad to see each other as the classic cars.

I would also like to applaud the Motor City Car Club for a successful weekend of Autofest. There were more than 1,000 cars, I estimate, that I counted down by the lake. It was a beautiful weekend to share, admire, reminisce and appreciate a great event, with more vehicle entries than we’ve seen in recent memories. Autofest has been happening in Oshawa since 1994, and, Speaker, if you or anyone else here missed it, everyone is invited next year.

Scarborough Shooting Stars

Mr. Vijay Thanigasalam: I am honoured to recognize the successful inaugural season of our local Scarborough Shooting Stars, the eighth franchise within the Canadian Elite Basketball League. The Shooting Stars completed their debut season this summer, playing their home game at the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre right here in my riding of Scarborough–Rouge Park. I’m so proud that they made it to a nail-biting championship this year. They fought hard to the end, coming just short to the Hamilton Honey Badgers. We were proud to have celebrities such as Drake and J. Cole rooting on our team alongside residents across Scarborough.

The Shooting Stars are uniting residents across Scarborough to catch a game and to root on our local team. They are also inspiring youth across my riding to get involved in sport, focusing on the amazing values of leadership, teamwork and discipline. This is having a real contribution within our community and is certainly bringing positive energy into Scarborough.

I’m looking forward to watching this team and their fan base behind it grow as we prepare for many seasons to come. I am sure this championship for Shooting Stars is right around the corner.

Mental health and addiction services

Mr. Jamie West: What can you do with an empty lot? A lot of people think nothing. But in Sudbury, the Five Cent City believes in making connections through community. So once a year, they take over a 40-by-80 parking lot and they bring the community together.

From the outside, it looks like a basketball event, because they have free-throw contests, they have three-on-three contests, they have slam-dunk contests. But in between, they talk about mental health. They talk about addictions. They talk about struggle and support. They talk about lived experience. They provide free haircuts. They have pizza and snacks, music and fun. And that’s what they can do with nothing. Can you imagine what we could do if mental health and addictions were properly funded across the province?

Tomorrow is International Overdose Awareness Day. Northern Ontario remains the hardest-hit. Thunder Bay district has the highest rate of overdose deaths in the province, more than four times the provincial average. Sudbury district has the second-highest opioid death rate, and northern Ontario’s mortality rate has more than doubled and we do not have enough help.

Tomorrow is international overdose day, and I’ve heard the Minister of Health is going to be in Sudbury. I am hopeful she is there to announce funding for Sudbury’s supervised consumption site, and I’m hopeful that she continues to announce funding across the province, particularly in northern Ontario. Because in the Five Cent City, we’re tired of saying, “Thanks for nothing.”

College funding

Mr. Robert Bailey: It’s an honour rise in the Legislature today to share the great news of another important investment in Sarnia–Lambton by this government of Ontario.

Sarnia–Lambton’s Lambton College has developed an international reputation as one of the best applied research post-secondary institutions anywhere in Canada. Last Friday, on behalf of the Ministry of Colleges and Universities, I had the honour of announcing that the government of Ontario will be supporting another important research project at Lambton College by investing nearly $600,000 in the Lambton Water Centre research project at the college.

Water is such a vital resource for everything we do in Ontario. As a province, we are blessed with access to an abundance of fresh water. And because of that, the Lambton Water Centre at Lambton College has been leading research into how companies of all sizes can develop, improve, optimize and enhance our water-related technologies. This large investment by the government of Ontario in Lambton College will be used to support research operations, including equipping college facilities with the latest technology, and supporting researchers to attract and retain the top research talent.

This is great news from the government of Ontario. By supporting groundbreaking research at Lambton College, our government is helping to advance new discoveries and innovation, and foster new business and career opportunities in Lambton county.

I might also add, I had the opportunity and the privilege Sunday last to introduce the Solicitor General, Michael Kerzner, to the Lambton College Fire School, another renowned facility in Lambton county as well.

Thank you again, Mr. Speaker, for the time.

Mental health and addiction services

MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam: This is my first member’s statement in the House, and I want to recognize that August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day.

People use drugs, and this has been true throughout all of human history. But drug use should never be a death sentence. I’m worried that this government hasn’t acted because those who use drugs are oftentimes, and largely disproportionately, Black, Indigenous, racialized, trans, sex workers and people living with mental illness and/or disabilities.

Speaker, drug users’ lives do matter. Overdoses don’t exclusively happen to other people’s families. If stigma has not already taken the life of someone you know, mark my word, it will soon.

We know the solutions to preventing overdose deaths include decriminalizing drugs; making drug supply available freely and a guarantee of free supply with available testing; and funding affordable and supportive housing and supportive beds for those seeking treatment.

As I close my remarks, I especially want to acknowledge the workers and organizations leading change on the front lines, especially those in Toronto Centre and beyond. There are too many to name in the time I have. But to those on the front line, you have all been to too many funerals. And when things finally change—and they will—it will be because of the difficult and life-transforming work you are doing today.

Sports and recreation funding

Mr. Will Bouma: This past Saturday, I met with members of the Brant Curling Club to celebrate two grants from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, totalling just under $549,000, at their first annual fundraising golf tournament dinner. These grants were used to install new refrigeration equipment and insulate and clad the exterior of the ice shed. This will not only extend the life of the facility but also save thousands of dollars in energy costs annually and also help them remain viable and recover during the pandemic.

Pre-Confederation Scottish newcomers wanted to help alleviate the long Ontario winters with some kind of sporting activity and wondered if curling might be the way to do so. Well, they were right.

The Brant Curling Club is used by a variety of community organizations for meetings, celebrations, team-building events and fundraisers.

At one level, there appears to be little in common between the curling that came to Upper Canada in 1759 and today’s game. Then it was irons; now it’s granites. Then it was outdoors on natural ice; now it is indoors on artificial ice. But one thing that remains is the warmth and camaraderie that still exists, embodied in the Brant Curling Club’s tag line, “Where Friends Meet.”

I would like to give a big thanks to the Ontario Trillium Foundation. These grants will allow the Brant Curling Club to purchase state-of-the-art ice-making equipment, improve the appearance of the building, accommodate gatherings and serve our community better while maintaining their viability during the pandemic.

Mental health and addiction services

Ms. Mary-Margaret McMahon: Good morning, Mr. Speaker. I am always proud to rise in this beautiful chamber to speak about Beaches–East York.

I recently attended a picnic organized by Pegasus Community Project. After a two-year hiatus, it was a great chance to reconnect. For those who don’t know this organization, Pegasus is a grassroots group founded in 1994 by Marie Perrotta, along with a small group of women, to help adults with developmental disabilities who were finishing school and had few options for continuing to learn and to adopt adult roles in their community.

Along with its daily programs, Pegasus boasts its annual inspirational film festival, a yearly fashion show and the Pegasus Shoppe, a social enterprise community thrift shop with proceeds that directly support the Pegasus project and employ present Pegasus participants. Mr. Speaker, it’s an incredible space.

Pegasus is evolving to meet the needs of aging participants experiencing difficult challenges. Opportunities to expand programming depend on funding from every level of government as well as private sponsorship. Unfortunately, two of the organization’s beloved members passed away earlier this year, and a memorial fund for Gavin Moore Burns has been set up specifically to fund programs for aging participants.

We’ve seen critical cuts to health care, a decline in autism services, mental health supports diminish, and support for important organizations like Pegasus become a rare find. We have an obligation to make sure that they and others are able to survive and thrive.

Ukrainian Independence Day

Mr. Rudy Cuzzetto: Last week, on the 31st Independence Day of Ukraine, I was honoured to join the Premier, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, and the Ukrainian ambassador, Yuliya Kovaliv, at the Lighthouse Artspace in Toronto for a special preview of the incredible new exhibit titled Ukraine: Land of the Brave, which will soon open as part of the Bloor West Village Ukrainian Festival, from September 15 to 18. I want to encourage all members to visit. Proceeds will support the purchase of medical and evacuation vehicles in Ukraine.

I want to thank the Mississauga companies, like Musket Transport and Cyclone Manufacturing, that have worked together to send humanitarian aid to Ukraine.

I also want to thank Ontarians, including many in my own community, who have welcomed Ukrainian refugees into their homes and into their communities—over 25,000 in the last six months. While I can’t name all of them here, I do want to thank the Sheridan Park Family Church for helping to collect donations of food, clothing and other supplies for refugee families now staying in local hotels.

They will join a vibrant Ukrainian Canadian community in Mississauga that has an incredible, positive impact on Ontario—from athletes, like the Toronto Maple Leafs legend Johnny Bower to entrepreneurs like Igor Antonoff, a long-time resident of Port Credit. Ontarians will always welcome refugees, and our government will always ensure they have access to the resources and services they need.

Once again, happy independence day. Slava Ukraini.

Ontario Regiment

Mr. Todd J. McCarthy: It gives me great pleasure to recognize a significant anniversary coming up in two weeks for one of Canada’s oldest and storied regiments in the Canadian Armed Forces. Durham region’s own Ontario Regiment will celebrate its 156th anniversary on September 14, 2022, making Oshawa’s regiment among the oldest continuously serving reserve militia units in Canada and one of the most senior armoured regiments in the Royal Canadian Armoured Corps.

Having first originated in 1866 in Whitby, Ontario, as the 34th Ontario Battalion of Infantry then redesigned as the Ontario Regiment in 1900, the Ont Rs or “black cats” have heroically served Canadians and citizens of the world through various military campaigns.

The unit fought with distinction in several theatres during World War II, beginning with the Allied Invasion of Sicily in July 1943 through to the Italian campaign of the war, seeing action in the fierce Liri Valley and on to Ortona. Most notably, in 1945 the unit entered the northwest European theatre, where it fought with distinction in the Dutch campaign, winning honours at Arnhem.

Along with many battle honours, a significant number of the regiment’s soldiers have volunteered for active duty with NATO in Germany, United Nations missions in Cyprus and Bosnia, the Golan Heights, Cambodia, the former Yugoslavia and, most recently, the NATO-led engagement in Afghanistan.

I’m proud to offer congratulations to the unit’s Honorary Colonel Robert Chapman; Honorary Lieutenant Colonel Nancy Shaw; incoming Commanding Officer of the Ont Rs, Lieutenant Colonel Christian Caron; the officers and soldiers.

Faithful and Prepared—Fidelis et Paratus.

Introduction of Visitors

Ms. Christine Hogarth: Good morning to everybody. I would like to welcome Sapan Jot, owner of Code Ninjas on the Queensway, and her family: Amay Garg, Ishav Garg and Trisha Kaura. Welcome to the Legislature. I hope you have a wonderful tour.

Mr. Joel Harden: The spirit of Uganda is in this House today, I’m excited to tell you, Speaker. The Kamengo Cultural Troupe arrived just moments ago. They are Chris Mutebi, Brian Muluuta, Pauline Nakamanya, Sharif Ssenkumba, Deo Kakande and their incredible manager, Jimmy Sebulime. In honour of Emancipation Month, they’re going to be performing in rooms 228 and 230 after question period. I invite all members to come.

Speaker, I want to thank you personally for your help and the help of the assembly protocol for helping our friends get here.

Happy Emancipation Month, everybody.

Hon. Kaleed Rasheed: I would like to welcome the parents of page Daniyal Elahi: Dr. Mehboob Elahi and his wife, Saadia Elahi. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Mr. Chris Glover: I’d like to welcome to the House Herbert Maguire and Leslie Thurston, who are Ontarians on disability; Rita DeBiasi, who worked 34 years as a PSW and now is on disability; and Meike Pfeffer, who is a social worker with Seeds of Hope, an organization which helps people experiencing homelessness in the city of Toronto. Welcome to the House.

Mr. Sam Oosterhoff: I’d like to welcome someone who is here today: a friend to many in the House, the remarkable, the talented Brian Patterson.

Mr. Ric Bresee: I’d like to introduce Christopher Dopking. He’s the principal of Emmanuel Christian school in Madoc, Ontario, from my riding. Welcome.

Ms. Laura Smith: I would very much like to welcome Sophie Shengyue Zhang, a new page here at the Legislature, from my riding of Thornhill. She is a student at Glen Shields Public School. Welcome, Sophie.

Mr. Mike Schreiner: I’d like to introduce my good friend Matt Richter from Parry Sound–Muskoka, who is in the members’ gallery. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Legislative pages

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I am now going to ask our legislative pages to assemble.

It is my pleasure and honour to introduce this group of legislative pages: from the riding of Wellington–Halton Hills, Prassan Aggarwal; from Toronto Centre, Ying Ying Chen; from Vaughan–Woodbridge, Liliana Commisso; from Don Valley West, Daniyal Elahi; from Hamilton Centre, Juliet Finley; from Etobicoke North, Malcolm Greene; from Mississauga–Malton, Zara Hameed; from Markham–Unionville, Evan Hu; from Beaches–East York, Sunder Looman; from Scarborough–Guildwood, Sharmin Nanabawa; from Spadina–Fort York, Arushi Nath; from Etobicoke–Lakeshore, Apollo Noronha; from Pickering–Uxbridge, Autumn Roberts; from Parkdale–High Park, Quaid Saitua-Rippell; from Don Valley North, Norah Symington; from Davenport, Lucas Yin; and from the riding of Thornhill, Sophie Shengyue Zhang.

Please join me in welcoming this group of legislative pages.

Applause.

Question Period

Long-term-care

Mr. Peter Tabuns: To the Premier: Yesterday, the government confirmed that they would be saying no to the front-line workers and families who say Bill 7 will be devastating for them.

Forcing seniors to pay steep fees and move hundreds of kilometres away from loved ones is not a solution to our health care crisis.

Will the government do the right thing, pull Bill 7, and start listening to the front-line workers and families who can give us the real solutions to the health care crisis?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Minister of Long-Term Care.

Hon. Paul Calandra: Mr. Speaker, the only ones saying no, really, are the opposition. We are saying yes to improving the health care system. We’ve been doing that since day one.

It’s about building an integrated system. That’s why we started with Ontario health teams. We’ve grown the system. We’ve added new nurses. We’ve added 58,000 new and upgraded long-term-care beds, 27,000 additional health care workers in long-term care alone. We’re adding new medical schools in Toronto. We’re expanding in Brampton and, of course, in Durham, Speaker.

But ultimately, what Bill 7 is about, and what the opposition refuses to acknowledge, is that when somebody is being discharged from a hospital, somebody who is already on the long-term-care wait-list—these are people who want to be in a long-term-care home—experts, doctors and medical professionals all will agree that the best place for somebody to get that care is in a long-term-care home. I’m going to continue, as all of us will on this side and Conservatives on that side of the House, to fight for those seniors who want to be in long-term care and who want better care.

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

Mr. Peter Tabuns: Again to the Premier: Later today, the Premier will be meeting with the Prime Minister. At a time when our health care crisis desperately needs an Ontario Premier to fight for health care, this Premier has been leading the charge for more privatization. That’s not a solution.

Will the Premier continue pushing his private health care agenda in his meeting with the Prime Minister?

Hon. Paul Calandra: Since day one, since we were elected in 2018, we have put a focus on rebuilding the health care system that was so badly neglected by 15 years of Liberals and, for many of those years, by the NDP. We’ve put incredible resources. We are building out the health care system like no government has before: a new hospital in Brampton, new hospitals in Niagara and long-term-care homes in every part of the province, because we know that long-term care can be part of the solution to the acute care problems that we have.

We are hiring additional health care workers. We’re building new medical schools in the province of Ontario. I think the Minister of Colleges and Universities talked about the first new medical school in over 100 years—the largest investment of health care in the history of Mississauga. The only consistent that there has been is that the NDP have voted against every single initiative, Mr. Speaker. We’ll keep rebuilding the health care system because it’s important to the people of Ontario.

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

Mr. Peter Tabuns: Again to the Premier: Ontario needs to defend a national vision for health care. Instead, the Premier’s vision is more private profit and less care. The Ford government fought a national pharmacare plan and has provided no leadership for a national long-term-care plan. Instead, the Premier is pushing privatization and threatening seniors and their families to help private long-term-care chains.

Will the Premier show some leadership today, scrap Bill 7, scrap his privatization agenda and work on a national plan to expand public health care and address the crisis in our hospitals?

Hon. Paul Calandra: Mr. Speaker, what we won’t do is allow the status quo to continue on in the province of Ontario. We’ve been very, very clear about that. It is completely unacceptable that, in a province like Ontario, there should be people waiting for hours in an emergency room because the beds aren’t available, especially when we have a system that has created and is building 58,000 new and upgraded long-term-care beds in every part of the province, in ridings of the opposition. These are the same members who came to me day after day after day: “Please approve a long-term-care home in my riding. It is so important.” And we did that, Mr. Speaker.

Despite the fact that we did that, they then voted against that funding. They voted against the 27,000 additional health care workers for long-term care. They voted against the four hours of care, Mr. Speaker.

We will work closely with patients in hospital who want to become residents of long-term care because we know that is better for them. It’s not me saying that; it’s health care professionals who are saying that. It’s even people who are in those homes.

Nurses

Mr. Jamie West: Nurses and health care staff have been underpaid and undervalued by the Conservative government. Tara is a local community nurse in Sudbury with three decades of experience. You simply can’t replicate the experience and knowledge of lifelong nurses like Tara. She brings this invaluable experience to her workplace, to her patients and to her colleagues, but Tara is quitting, and so are many other senior nurses she knows. I asked Tara why, and she said, “Our out-of-pocket expenses always increase, but our mileage and wages” don’t “keep pace.”

Right now in Sudbury, there are more than 150 job postings for nurses. With that many vacancies, clearly the Premier’s plan to retain nurses is not working.

To the Premier: When will the Premier admit that lifelong nurses like Tara are leaving the profession because they have not been sufficiently supported and valued by this government?

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

Hon. Sylvia Jones: To the nurses like Tara: Thank you. Thank you for your commitment. Thank you for being there when the people of Ontario needed you, through the pandemic.

It’s so important that we acknowledge the excellent work that nurses have done, which is, frankly, one of the reasons why we brought forward the $5,000 nurse retention. The second Toronto course is coming forward in the weeks ahead, in the first couple of weeks in September.

We’re also expanding the supply and opportunities for people who wish to train as nurses in the province of Ontario, because we understand that there are so many opportunities with additional long-term-care beds being built, with 50 new hospital expansions in the works. We need more health human resources, and it is why we’ve invested $35 million to increase enrolment in nursing education programs in colleges and universities. The new spaces will introduce over 1,100 practical nurses and 870 registered nurses into Ontario’s health care system.

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

Mr. Jamie West: Back to the Premier: I just want to remind the minister that thanks don’t pay bills.

Nurses and health care staff have been underpaid and undervalued by the Conservative government.

Jan works in a local long-term-care home and is concerned about the recent increase in staffing agency contract nurses. Jan told me that contract nurses can make up to $150 an hour more than she does. As a result, nursing home budgets are being obliterated by these costs, and this ends up forcing even more cuts to front-line staff. What’s more, most of these temp agencies require their nurses to sign a contract that prevents them from being hired as full-time workers in the agencies where they provide these services.

To the Premier: With little to no oversight, staffing agencies are slowly draining the nursing pool and money intended for patient care. What is the Premier doing to stop these agencies from taking advantage and profiteering from the COVID pandemic and our current health care crisis?

Hon. Sylvia Jones: We have invested so much in our health human resources in the province of Ontario. One of those investments, of course, is $100 million to add an additional 2,000 nurses by 2024-25, by supporting the training of thousands of personal support workers and nurses who want to advance their careers in long-term care. We’re investing $342 million to add over 5,000 new and upskilled nurses over the next five years.

We will continue to work with the College of Nurses of Ontario. We will continue to work to make sure that internationally educated health care workers who want to practise in the province of Ontario get their licence quickly through those colleges. And that work can be ongoing, because I think you and I can both agree that we want more people working in our health care system in Ontario.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Final supplementary? The member for Mushkegowuk–James Bay.

Mr. Guy Bourgouin: Ma question est pour le premier ministre.

On Thursday, August 25, Kashechewan First Nation, a population of 1,900, published a news release about a severe shortage of primary care nurses at their nursing station. This is a critical situation, as only three nurses are available—now down to two—when usually they are staffed at nine. The health director, Jonathan Solomon, is worried about the well-being of the nursing staff as well. This has been the case for the past four weeks, leaving a skeleton crew giving “emergency only” services. The health and well-being of the community is at risk. Primary care for their residents is not being met, and they have no other medical facilities. This nursing station is their lifeline.

Will the government work with the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch of Indigenous Services Canada to put together a better recruitment plan for nurses so that the community of Kashechewan never has to address another health care crisis for lack of nurses?

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

Hon. Sylvia Jones: I am very well aware of the issue in Kashechewan. Of course, I appreciate the member opposite discussing it with me last week and yesterday. It is precisely why we have made investments like the Learn and Stay program, where up to 2,500 eligible post-secondary students who enrol in priority programs such as nursing and work in under-serviced communities in the region where they studied, after graduation, will be able to continue to serve those communities.

We will do this work to make sure that communities like Kashechewan and others in remote and rural communities across Ontario—we’ve already got 400 new, practising doctors in rural and remote communities. We will do more, and we will work with the federal government—because, as the member opposite knows, of course, that nursing station is a federal nursing station.

Northern health services

Ms. Lise Vaugeois: To the Premier: At the recent Association of Municipalities of Ontario meeting, I heard the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association delegation raise concerns about the proposal to cut Ontario’s health units from 35 to 10 and paramedic services from 55 to 10. The plan is to merge the Kenora, Rainy River and Thunder Bay districts under one health unit covering at least 220,000 square kilometres, and over 500,000 square kilometres if Kiiwetinoong is included.

In the Ontario northwest, we already face enormous geographical challenges to access health care. The proposed mega health unit would serve an absurdly large geographical area with distinctly different communities and distinctly different needs that no single health or paramedic unit could possibly manage without putting people’s lives at risk.

Why is this government looking to make our health care challenges in the north greater by reducing available services?

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

Hon. Sylvia Jones: At the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, I was very pleased to be able to announce an expansion of the paramedic programs that have been incredibly successful in some of our communities. Not all Ontario communities have access to that, and we are making sure that that continues.

Now, when a paramedic today has the only option of taking their patient to an emergency department, it is a strain on the system. When we have—with the patient’s consent—the ability to take that patient to a mental health facility, to a long-term-care facility, to a palliative home, there are opportunities that, together working with the patient, make for stronger and better outcomes. That’s what we’re doing. That’s what we’re talking about when we say the status quo is not an option in the province of Ontario.

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

Ms. Lise Vaugeois: Cam, a resident of Thunder Bay–Superior North, contacted our office, alarmed, when he read of the proposed changes reported in the Chronicle Journal, such as reducing health care units from 35 to 10; cutting paramedic services from 55 to 10; and what has already taken place, eliminating the mobile health units that were visiting communities on a monthly basis—something, up until recently, seniors in outlying communities could depend on. Now, if I am hearing the minister correctly, perhaps the intention is not to make these cuts and reduce these units.

So my question is: Will this government listen to community members, health professionals and local mayors, stop the amalgamation of health units, return the monthly mobile health units, and strengthen rather than weaken access to health care in northern Ontario?

Hon. Sylvia Jones: Can I reassure the member opposite that there has been no underlying decrease in health funding in the province of Ontario? The investments that we have made, both in terms of hospitals—allowing hospitals to have more surgeries so that that backlog that occurred, as we knew it would during the pandemic, was able to be dealt with faster.

Having access so that more people could have vaccinations in a multitude of ways, whether that was through their public health unit, their primary care physician, their pharmacy, travelling GO-VAXX buses—we did everything we could to protect the people of Ontario and we should be proud of those investments, because they paid off by having Ontario and Canada only second in the world in protecting our citizens during a pandemic that has impacted everyone across the world.

GO Transit

Mr. Sam Oosterhoff: The people of the Niagara region deserve better when it comes to transit services in our peninsula. For years and years, the previous Liberal government would make promise after promise about the delivery of the long-awaited GO service to Niagara, but they always failed to deliver. When they were asked about the status of their commitment, we would hear Liberal members claim that it’s a “very, very big priority” or that they “could see it coming in the next year.”

But my constituents have waited long enough. Delivering GO rail service to Niagara is an essential piece of ensuring that we’re building up Ontario’s economy and strengthening Niagara’s tourism sector. Could the Minister of Transportation please update the Legislature on the important expansion of GO service to Niagara our government announced last week?

Hon. Caroline Mulroney: I want to thank the member from Niagara West for the question and for being such a dedicated and effective advocate for his constituents every day.

Speaker, delivering more rail service to Niagara is a priority for our government. Last week I was pleased to join the Premier, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport and the member from Niagara West to announce that we are reinstating GO train service to Niagara 365 days a year, with year-round weekend service from Toronto’s Union Station to Niagara Falls. With two round trips each day on weekends, our government is giving a major boost to the region and unlocking access to the world-class tourist destination that is Niagara Falls. The Niagara region is an economic driver for our province.

This increase in service will not only build our economy but will also strengthen the region’s $1.8-billion tourism industry. But the job doesn’t stop there, Speaker. We will continue to work with our rail partners at CN to deliver even more service to Niagara region.

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

Mr. Sam Oosterhoff: Expanding the GO train service is vital for my region’s economic future. We know that expanding transit infrastructure can help ease housing affordability issues in major cities and help to grow businesses and economic opportunities for constituents in Niagara. More GO trains means fewer cars on the QEW, which is less traffic and less gridlock on a major highway. The people of Niagara deserve to spend more time at home with their families and less time waiting in traffic congestion.

It’s vital that transit expansion becomes a reality across the GTHA, including in Niagara. Speaker, can the Minister of Transportation explain what our government is doing to expand GO services in Niagara and to get the job done for the people of Niagara West?

Hon. Caroline Mulroney: Thank you to the member for the question. The population of Ontario could increase by as much as six million over the next two decades. Without strong, decisive action right now, the greater Golden Horseshoe’s transportation network will not keep pace with the needs of Ontarians. It’s no secret that the previous Liberal government ignored the need to build critical infrastructure, leaving Ontario ill-prepared for the future.

But, Speaker, rest assured our government is filling the massive infrastructure and transit gap that was left behind by the Liberals. I’m so proud that our PC government, led by our Premier, is stepping up to the plate and getting the job done for Ontarians. GO expansion is a key part of our government’s plan to fight gridlock and to better connect residents and commuters to the reliable transit services that they need. Bringing year-round weekend GO rail service between Toronto’s Union Station and Niagara Falls is a major step forward as our government delivers on the largest transit mandate in Ontario’s history.

We are working quickly to bring more frequent GO service to the entire network, including Niagara, while moving full—

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

Emergency services

Mr. Michael Mantha: My question is to the Premier. Earlier this month, Ken and Lorena Dillon from Chapleau were biking at Shoals Provincial Park when they suffered an accident. They tried to call 911 but the call wouldn’t go through because there was no cell coverage.

No one in Ontario should have to wait for hours on the side of a highway in an emergency because there is no cell service. Is the Premier going to ensure that everyone in Ontario can call 911 when they are in an emergency?

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

Hon. Sylvia Jones: The member opposite is absolutely right, which is why, working across government in a number of different ministries, we are investing and moving forward on our next-generation 911. It will mean such a difference for the communities and the people who are in those very small parts of the province that don’t currently have 911. We want to make sure that that access is available, because we understand—the vast majority of people understand that when they need help, when they’re in an emergency, 911 is the call that they need to make.

Visitors to Ontario, to different parts and communities, don’t always know that, which is why we as a government have invested, and will continue to invest, in next-generation 911.

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

Mr. Michael Mantha: Again to the Premier: Ken and Lorena were able to find help after Ken rode back into town and flagged down an ambulance.

For some in northern Ontario, the situation is even worse. They have to find a 10-digit number to call during an emergency. The services are there, but 911 is not.

The patchwork system of cell coverage and emergency numbers in the north is putting lives on the line. Will the Premier commit to ensuring that 911 can be contacted in every part of the province where there is an emergency?

Hon. Sylvia Jones: Yes. The Ministry of the Solicitor General, the Ministry of Infrastructure, the Ministry of Health: All of us understand the value and importance of next-generation 911, which is why we are making those investments. We are working with the dispatch to make sure that everyone across Ontario has access to 911, when and where they need it.

I completely agree with the member opposite. We are doing that work. It is in process.

Community safety / Sécurité communautaire

Mr. Dave Smith: Speaker, people in my riding are concerned about an increase in crime in our community. Peterborough has always been a peaceful town, and now we’re seeing an increase in gun crime that would have been unheard of not that long ago. We’ve had five shootings in the last five months, with the most recent one being just this past Saturday. People in Peterborough are concerned about an increase in violence that appears to be fuelled by the drug trade.

The media often focus on stories of crimes in larger cities, but I want to know, what’s the Solicitor General doing for communities like Peterborough that are concerned about public safety? How is the Solicitor General going to tackle crime in communities like mine?

Hon. Michael S. Kerzner: I want to thank the member from Peterborough–Kawartha for the question.

Everyone has a right to feel safe in their own home and in their own communities. Our government has established the guns-and-gangs joint-forces operation that is being led by the Ontario Provincial Police. This is a province-wide tool to help ongoing battles against guns, gangs and violence throughout our province.

The guns-and-gangs joint-forces operation is made possible through a $75-million investment by our government and will increase both intelligence sharing and enforcement action. We will be working with all law enforcement agencies across the province, such as Peterborough, to keep Ontario safe.

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

Mr. Dave Smith: I want to thank the minister for that answer. I would also like to congratulate the Kawartha Lakes OPP and the Dufferin OPP on their successful operations just south of my riding, in Nestleton. Kawartha Lakes OPP and Dufferin OPP have concluded their investigation with the seizure of approximately $340,000 worth of property, including stolen cars, drugs and guns. And although it’s in Nestleton, it’s close enough that it affects my community as well. It takes those guns off the streets of Peterborough.

It’s great to hear how joint operations can be so effective. Peterborough is a small police service, and their resources are spread thin. Our community looks to the province for support in achieving our provincial goals.

Mr. Speaker, could the minister share more about the investments our government is specifically providing to the people of Peterborough–Kawartha?

Hon. Michael S. Kerzner: I want to thank our member from Peterborough–Kawartha for his follow-up question.

Community safety is a top priority, not just for those who work in and support the justice system but for all Ontario families. And as I said before, everyone has a right to feel safe in their own homes and their own communities.

With this in mind, I would like to point out that since the member from Peterborough–Kawartha has been elected, our government has provided more than $11 million in direct grants for policing. For example, starting this year, the province will be investing locally $3 million through the Community Safety and Policing Grant Program.

I want to say, Mr. Speaker, that keeping our community safe is our highest priority.

Monsieur le Président, la sûreté et la sécurité de notre province seront toujours notre priorité absolue.

Employment standards

Ms. Chandra Pasma: Nursing shortages continue to plague Ottawa hospitals. The Queensway Carleton Hospital in my riding of Ottawa West–Nepean has had to close ICU beds due to lack of nurses.

Nurses without specialized experience are being assigned to work serious cases in the ICU or trauma cases in the ER. In at least one case, a nurse with only a few months’ experience was put in charge of an entire unit overnight, by herself. Speaker, this is unsustainable and risky. Why is the Premier refusing to repeal Bill 124 and address nursing shortages?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): And to reply, Minister of Colleges and Universities.

Hon. Jill Dunlop: Thank you to the member for the question.

As we work to create a strong health care system, we are relying on strong health human resources as well. That’s why we are taking strong measures, specifically in my ministry, to ensure that we are training more doctors and nurses.

For example, the Learn and Stay program will pay for all educational components of a nurse’s education—in order to qualify, and to commit to two years in an underserved area. This will be starting in 2023. This will allow up to 3,000 nurses as part of this program, so it’s a great opportunity for young people to serve in some of those underserved, rural, northern areas.

As well, we’ve now allowed colleges across Ontario to offer stand-alone programs in nursing. Fourteen colleges now offer this program in areas like my own—in Georgian College, Lambton College, Loyalist—great opportunities for young people to be entering into rewarding careers, where we know we need more nurses.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary?

Ms. Chandra Pasma: All the education programs in the world won’t do any good if nurses are leaving as soon as they start due to lack of support.

Recently, I met with the nurses of ONA Local 84 who work at the Queensway Carleton Hospital. They are burnt-out and frequently left in tears over assignments that they do not feel qualified to take on.

There are nurses who are quitting and working minimum wage jobs in retail because at least it doesn’t have the stress of nursing.

Will the Premier finally listen to nurses, address working conditions, and repeal Bill 124?

Hon. Jill Dunlop: Thank you again to the member for that question.

As I mentioned, we have so many opportunities for young people to join the nursing profession. We are offering opportunities for students as well as opportunities for bridging in some of the work that I’ve been doing with the Minister of Long-Term Care, where we’ve invested over $100 million to support students who are moving from being a PSW to a registered practical nurse to a registered nurse, all while working in these careers while we need them in the workforce.

We’re offering opportunities for young people in their own communities—as I mentioned, the opportunity for students to learn in a college and to complete their four-year degree there, close to home. These are opportunities—I know in my own area, where students were at one time leaving to go to a university to finish their two-year degree, usually in a city, and not coming back to our rural communities. So there are great opportunities for colleges across Ontario to accept students, to be able to offer the nursing degree programs.

Long-term care

Mr. Adil Shamji: Mr. Speaker, Bill 7 is flawed at its core because it violates patient rights. True patient consent must pass three tests:

(1) The patient must be capable; (2) they must be fully informed; and (3) they must give their consent voluntarily and freely.

When it comes to transmitting confidential health information and authorizing admission to a long-term-care home, Bill 7 doesn’t even pretend to ask for patient consent. It’s not required. And after all that, if a patient is given space in a faraway, culturally inappropriate long-term-care home, although patients don’t have to say yes, there’s a steep cost to saying no.

To quote the Minister of Long-Term Care on August 24, “Are there instances where the hospital will be charging? Absolutely, if someone refuses to move into a home.”

Will the Minister of Long-Term Care explain why he is choosing to entirely circumvent informed patient consent and instead violate patient autonomy?

Hon. Paul Calandra: I’m surprised to hear that the member for Don Valley East is not aware of the fact that since 1979 hospitals have actually been able to charge for alternate-level-of-care patients. I guess that’s perhaps part of the problem.

At the same time, Mr. Speaker, what we are doing is, we are using—when a patient in a hospital acute care setting has been seen by a doctor, and that doctor has said that their time in an acute care facility should come to an end because they would be better serviced in the community or in a long-term-care home, we are facilitating that for them. That is what we’re doing. We’re listening to medical professionals across the province of Ontario, who all agree.

And I think the member opposite—in some of his statements—agrees as well that when you are ready to be discharged from a hospital, when you are on the long-term-care waiting list, the best place for you is in a long-term-care home. We are going to make that happen.

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

Mr. Adil Shamji: Mr. Speaker, the legislation that the minister refers to only allowed the charging of copay, not full hospital rates up to $1,500 or $1,800.

Additionally, while I agree that patients need and deserve to be in long-term-care homes, it should be under their own terms and under their own circumstances, not by violating their rights in the process.

You know, this bill is actually so bad, so unethical and so immoral that it actually apologizes for itself. It says, “Despite subsection 3(2), this

section ... shall not be interpreted or construed as being inconsistent with the residents’ bill of rights,” even though it does. It fails to pass the three tests of patient consent, it fails to protect patients’ confidential health information and it fails to respect patients’ express wishes.

So I ask again: Will the minister withdraw his bill and instead focus on the root causes of our ALC crisis, such as the mass exodus of health care workers created by Bill 124 in the last four years?

Interjection.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Order.

Minister of Long-Term Care.

Hon. Paul Calandra: First and foremost, let me just say this: The problem in acute care in the province of Ontario has been a problem for many, many, many years; a problem that was not addressed by the previous Liberal government, and that was, of course, before Bill 124, Mr. Speaker.

But having said that, we have made significant investments into long-term care—significant investments into long-term care. I will let this medical professional explain to the people who have been discharged from a hospital, who are on the waiting list for a long-term-care home, why, all of a sudden now that he has a seat in this Legislature, their needs are better met in an acute care setting as opposed to a long-term-care setting.

Because he will be alone on that, because medical professionals we have talked to and who have been advising us—even patients themselves have said that they want to be in a long-term-care home after they have been discharged from hospital. We are going to make that happen, and we can make that happen because of the investments we’ve made in long-term care and in nursing and in health care across the province.

Manufacturing jobs

Ms. Patrice Barnes: Under the previous Liberal government, people and jobs in my region were abandoned; the east was neglected. Like many areas of this province, manufacturing is a major industry. We are no strangers to the negative impacts of 300,000 manufacturing jobs lost under their watch because of reckless policies.

What is the Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade doing to ensure that the residents in my riding and others in Ontario will have good, secure, well-paying jobs for themselves and for their children for years to come?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade.

Hon. Victor Fedeli: Yes, the Liberals and the NDP did in fact lose 300,000 manufacturing jobs in Ontario because of their outdated policies, their red tape and their high taxes. In 2018, we promised families that our government would do things differently, and we did. We listened to the businesses, like those in Ajax, and developed plans to support their unique challenges. We introduced a $40-million advanced manufacturing and innovation competitiveness program.

This AMIC program supports manufacturing businesses to invest, grow and remain competitive on a global scale and will continue to support Ajax’s manufacturing supply chain through the attraction of billions of dollars in investments, just like we’ve done in the last four years.

Speaker, 500,000 jobs have returned to Ontario, and we will continue to bring back even more jobs—those jobs that the Liberals sent running from this province.

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

Ms. Patrice Barnes: Speaker, it’s great to hear that the government is focusing on investments in my riding and supporting the manufacturing sector and prominent job creators. While these large businesses employ thousands of people in my region, what about small companies? What about the start-ups?

Entrepreneurs and those with small business ambitions need support, too. Small businesses and start-ups bring dreams to reality. I know many residents in my riding provide food for their families through their small businesses. Speaker, what is the minister doing to help entrepreneurs in my riding start and grow their businesses?

Hon. Victor Fedeli: For 15 years, the Liberals and the NDP left our entrepreneurs behind; they put up obstacles to get businesses up and running. To our government, small businesses and entrepreneurs are critical to Ontario’s prosperity, and that’s why we continue to support them. We saw the problems that the Liberals and the NDP created, and we changed all that by lowering taxes, cutting red tape and fixing their hydro mess.

Ajax entrepreneurs now have all the tools they need to grow their businesses. We’re providing $732,000 to the Durham-Oshawa Small Business Enterprise Centre and another $187,000 to support Durham’s Summer Company and Starter Company Plus programs. Those help students and young entrepreneurs get their businesses off the ground. All of that is proof positive that Ontario is open for business.

Social assistance

Mr. Chris Glover: This is to the Premier. The Centre for Social Justice estimates that almost half of the 16,000 Ontarians experiencing homelessness have a disability or mental illness. When this government was elected in 2018, 94 people experiencing homelessness died on the streets of Toronto. Last year, in 2021, the number was 216 Ontarians who died on the streets of Toronto experiencing homelessness. People cannot afford housing, and the government’s promise to raise the ODSP housing allowance to $522 a month does not provide rent for a room anywhere in this province.

So my question is, will this government double ODSP rates so that Ontarians with disabilities have a place to live, or will the number of people dying on the streets of Toronto and across this province experiencing homelessness continue to rise under this government’s watch?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Minister of Children, Community and Social Services.

Hon. Merrilee Fullerton: Thank you for the question. Our government is continuously working across ministries to make sure that vulnerable people can get the supports that they need. And our government has invested more in social assistance than any provincial government in history, and I refuse to accept the no-noes across the way.

Our government has made a historic investment in ODSP. We are aligning that with inflation—and that’s not the only thing. We’re working with the federal government to create the Canadian disability benefit. We are urging them to do that on an urgent basis. It’s also across ministries, like I said. It’s the micro-credentialing strategy. It’s the Roadmap to Wellness. It’s the LIFT tax credit. It’s the CARE tax credit. It’s the child care spaces and education.

These are multi-billion-dollar investments, and we’re going to continue to do this important work, despite that the members opposite will continue to say no.

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

Mr. Chris Glover: To the Premier: Your government continues to boast about raising ODSP rates by 5% to the highest level in history. But during your term of office, inflation has been 12%. And you increased the rates by 1.5% before, so it’s 6.5%. You’re implementing an inflationary cut of 5.5% on ODSP rates.

Today, we’re joined by some Ontarians with disabilities. One of them, Leslie, requires a special diet. She says, “The broccoli that used to cost 99 cents is now $5.99.” She says, “It’s obvious that this government doesn’t care.” She says, “I might as well eat garbage and die because no one seems to care.”

My question is to the government. Stop the spin. Stop the rhetoric. People with disabilities in Ontario are dying under your watch. Will you double the ODSP rates so Ontarians with disabilities can live a decent life?

Hon. Merrilee Fullerton: I don’t know how the member opposite missed all the mentions of all the programs. This is across ministries. It’s across government. We are working with the federal government on the Canadian disability benefit. The previous government had 15 years to create the programs and the supports that were needed. This didn’t happen overnight. And, lo and behold, right before the election that they were planning to lose, in 2018, is when they finally bumped up the rates.

I will not take any lessons from the opposition or from the previous government. We are working on behalf of the most vulnerable people in our society.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Opposition, come to order.

Hon. Merrilee Fullerton: We will continue to do that because we know how important it is for people that we serve, unlike the previous government and the opposition that supported them and did nothing.

Mental health and addiction services

Mr. Mike Schreiner: My question is for the Premier. The housing, mental health and addictions crisis is putting huge pressure on our health care system. On June 17, Ontario’s Big City Mayors called for an emergency meeting with the Premier to discuss solutions for homelessness, mental health, safety and addictions. The Canadian Mental Health Association, Ontario business improvement associations, chiefs of police, AMO and many others have called for urgent action. Yet we’ve seen little response from this government.

One quick way to help solve this urgent problem would be to immediately increase funding for new and current permanent supportive housing projects. Speaker, will the Premier commit today to new ongoing operational funding for mental health workers and other supports in supportive housing projects to improve people’s lives and reduce stress on our health care system?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions.

Hon. Michael A. Tibollo: Thank you for the question. As you know, and as I’ve said on numerous occasions, our government respects mental health, and we have done and made incredible investments. The meeting with respect to the mayors of the large cities in the province—we have met with many of the mayors one on one. We’ve had many discussions, and our investments in the province have been unprecedented when it comes to investments. We understand the need to build a system and the fact that, for building a system, you also need to make investments, and those investments are being made to the tune of $525 million annually.

In addition to that, we also understand that, as a result of COVID, money needed to be invested—additional funds—into addictions recovery, and so we built a fund of $90 million that’s invested across the province of Ontario to ensure that people that need help are able to get it when and where they need it. That’s what we need to do, is ensure—

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

Mr. Mike Schreiner: Speaker, I believe the associate minister understands the seriousness of this crisis, but I do not believe the government understands the urgency needed, the scale and scope of the crisis, the funding that is necessary. Ontario’s Big City Mayors called for a meeting—an emergency meeting—this summer because they’re saying that cities and communities across this province are being overwhelmed with a crisis of homelessness, mental health, safety and addictions. Every $10 invested in permanent supportive housing saves government $21.72 in other costs.

The government has pulled out all the stops to push seniors out of our hospitals. Why won’t they pull out all the stops to make the investments in our communities the Ontario big city mayors are calling for? I ask the Premier: Will the Premier at least meet with the mayors to discuss how to respond to this emergency?

Hon. Michael A. Tibollo: Once again, I want to reiterate, there isn’t a mayor anywhere in the province of Ontario that has requested a meeting and not gotten one with myself. I make a point of meeting with different mayors and understanding the issues because, in a recovery-oriented model, we need to build the resources in each of the different communities, and our fund, under the leadership of the Premier, has done exactly that and is doing that and will continue to do that.

The investments that are being made are being made in the areas of harm reduction, in withdrawal management, in treatment, and of course in housing, because we understand that one of the social determinants of health, to ensure that a person doesn’t continue to cycle through the system, is to provide the resources necessary to give that individual the best chance of succeeding. This is what our government is doing, Mr. Speaker. This is what we’re going to continue to do because you cannot have health without mental health, and those investments are and will continue to be made.

Education

Ms. Laura Smith: This question is to the Minister of Education. Mr. Speaker, families in Thornhill and across this province are anxious yet excited for the return to class. We know, as parents, that nothing else matters more. Many kids are gearing up, families buying school supplies and new routines are being created. This is happening in my own household right now.

When our kids go back, many will be behind. We see it as parents, teachers see it and I know this minister gets it. In short, what is the minister doing to help these kids, to ensure they get back on track as they return this September, right until June?

Hon. Stephen Lecce: I do want to thank the member from Thornhill for this question. I think many parents of this province have perhaps never been more excited for these kids to get back to class, as are the children of this province. It’s been two difficult years. I think the number one thing we can do as a Parliament is to ensure the kids get to school in September and they stay in school without disruption right to June. That requires all of us to work together to ensure the kids have a plan in place to catch up, to get back to basics on the fundamentals of learning, reading, writing and math.

That’s why, Speaker, we’ve unveiled a plan that puts a greater emphasis—that restores the full learning experience: the clubs and sports, the extracurriculars, music and arts, the elements that create well-rounded leaders in this province.

We’ve also unveiled a nation-leading tutoring expansion plan, $175 million—the largest in this country—designed to help kids have the support they need, and a mental health investment building on the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions’ response. We have a 420% net increase, all this designed to ensure kids get back to a normal and stable, more enjoyable—

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

The supplementary.

Ms. Laura Smith: Thank you to the minister for his positive response. Students and families in my riding of Thornhill will benefit from these supports this school year.

In addition to catching up in class, many families have safety and health in school top of mind. Speaker, the benefits of in-person learning are so clear to all of us, and yet with the backdrop of union escalation, it raises a concern with so many parents. The Premier and the Minister of Education have strongly advocated for a disruption-free return to school with the full school experience, one that includes extracurricular activities.

Will the minister outline his vision for September right till June? Tell us more about these protocols and supports in place for Ontario students and their families.

Hon. Stephen Lecce: I think families in this province will be elated to hear that kids will be returning to a more normal, a much more enjoyable and a stable September right to June. That is what children deserve, and it requires all of us to have the political fortitude to stand up for stability against the backdrop of a pandemic or never-ending union negotiations.

We deserve that. Our parents and our children deserve that, Speaker. It’s why, when we look at September, we’re really restoring the same experience they had in June. We’ll continue to provide rapid tests. We’ll continue to have 100,000 HEPA filters in schools, the largest ventilation improvement in the nation. We’re also ensuring that screening takes place, enhanced cleaning of our schools and buses. And likewise, we have another $300 million provided by the Premier specifically to hire literally over 2,000 additional custodians and EAs and educators to make a difference in our schools.

Mr. Speaker, we’re excited for September. We’re going to stay focused on keeping kids in school right to June.

Social assistance

Mr. Joel Harden: My question is for the Premier. Good morning, Premier.

Marilyn Matheson, the executive director of the Caldwell Family Centre, runs a community kitchen and food bank in the west end of our community. The centre has benefited from COVID-19 disaster funding relief, and it’s used that to feed people in need.

It’s a success story for our province. It feeds up to 600 meals a day right now for people who are suffering from the prices of high rent and high food. But last week, Marilyn said they may have to shut their doors if that funding doesn’t continue, which will end early September, and that will disadvantage, as she was saying at the time to the media, 340 families and almost 1,000 individuals that she was serving in that particular week.

Speaker, this is a success story to deal with poverty. I’m wondering if the Premier today can commit to us that these sorts of community food agencies will have consistent, stable funding going forward.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The Minister of Children, Community and Social Services.

Hon. Merrilee Fullerton: Again, thank you for mentioning the social services relief fund, $1 billion that was helping groups and organizations throughout COVID-19, but it’s much more than that.

The food stability, the food security issue is related to a whole poverty-reduction strategy. That involves the micro-credentials strategy, the mental health strategy, the Roadmap to Wellness, the new child care spaces, the Ontario Child Benefit, the dental care for eligible seniors, the LIFT tax credit, the CARE tax credit, the Feed Ontario programs, the student nutrition programs, the Ontario Trillium fund, Resilient Communities Fund, the Ontario Jobs Training Tax Credit, the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit, the minimum wage enhancement.

This is a vision that we have working with municipalities, because we understand how important it is to help give people the support that they need when they need it, and to help those who can work get back into the labour market, and working with the—

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

Mr. Joel Harden: While I appreciate that answer from the minister on behalf of the Premier, I want to point out that this social services relief fund has been doing incredible work in our community and I think it’s something we should be celebrating. However, if the funding is about to run out, it’s not going to continue that legacy of success.

I want to talk about Erica Braunovan, who runs the Ottawa Community Food Partnership. It’s a local initiative that brings together 20 food businesses and 30 social service agencies that has been helping people by producing 4,000 meals a week. This is another one of the organizations that will have their funding run out soon. But this is a situation where businesses are getting jobs—newcomers to our country, in many cases—and people in need who are hungry and who will starve without these programs get instant relief.

Again, Speaker, my question to the government once more: This social services relief funding is about to run out: Will you let Ottawa, will you let the rest of Ontario continue the success story by making this funding permanent? Yes or no, please?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

Hon. Steve Clark: Speaker, through you to the honourable member: The minister was correct in the first answer. The social services relief fund has helped Ontarians during the pandemic in a very meaningful way. We made a decision when we first announced the program that we wanted to make it flexible. So, many service managers targeted the issues that Minister Fullerton spoke about: food insecurity and ensuring that those who were less fortunate had that opportunity.

Some of the tranches of this funding—I think we’re now up to five times that we’ve distributed these dollars—was not cost-shared by the federal government. We have a situation where, based on our core housing need, based on our need in the province of Ontario—that is far, far greater than any other province or territory in Canada—the federal government has shortchanged us some $490 million. We need that member and his party to support our call to the federal government for our fair share.

Ring of Fire

Mr. Will Bouma: Many of the people in Brantford–Brant have raised concerns to me about the status of the Ring of Fire development. Their doubt is not without merit, as the previous Liberal government failed to develop a strong direction on the project. Our government has made significant advancements on this file, but concerns remain over delays in negotiations due to COVID-19 and that we are still waiting for federal funding.

We know that obtaining money from the federal government is essential for building infrastructure and roads in the region. Can the Minister of Mines address these concerns and update the chamber on this development?

Hon. George Pirie: Thank you for the question from the member for Brantford–Brant.

Immediately after I was appointed Minister of Mines I joined our great Minister of Energy at the Canadian Energy and Mine Ministers’ Conference in St. John’s. At the conference, I was excited that Minister Wilkinson shared my sense of urgency for developing critical minerals that we know are necessary for a low-carbon economy. We can’t go green without mining and we know the critical minerals in the Ring of Fire represent a nationally, if not globally, significant opportunity.

Our government committed almost $1 billion for infrastructure and community supports, but we need the federal government to come to the table with the funding. Based on my early discussions with the federal government and Minister Wilkinson, I believe they are a willing partner and will come to the table as a full partner.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary?

Mr. Will Bouma: Thank you for that answer, Minister. We know the Ring of Fire development will impact First Nations in the Far North. Proper consultation with First Nations communities is essential in advancing this critical project, while respecting Indigenous treaty rights.

In the past, the provincial government’s approach to this file fuelled disagreements and deadlock that resulted in further delays. Can the Minister of Mines explain to the Legislature what our government is doing differently? How are we avoiding the mistakes made by the previous Liberal government and moving this project forward in partnership with First Nations communities?

Hon. George Pirie: Thank you, again, for the question. It’s no secret that the Liberal government’s approach to the Ring of Fire achieved nothing. The only people who benefited from the Liberal government’s regional framework were insiders, lawyers and consultants.

Our government ended the regional framework in favour of bilateral agreements with First Nations to understand their unique priorities and perspectives. Our government signed historic agreements with Webequie and Marten Falls First Nations, who are proponents for their community projects on the Northern Road Link.

Speaker, the results have been fantastic. First Nations-led environmental assessments are now under way for two road projects in the Ring of Fire. By working in partnership with First Nations, we are building momentum on this project and charting a plan forward to economic reconciliation.

Long-term care / Home care

Ms. Jill Andrew: To the Premier: Bill 7 is a give-consent-or-go-broke government bill. It is poised to strip ALC patients and families of their dignity by allowing seniors and patients with disabilities, among others, to be forced into long-term-care homes some hundreds of kilometres away without consent. Through Bill 7, patients could be forced into for-profit long-term-care homes, which we know are more likely to be understaffed and underfunded. During the pandemic alone, for-profit private homes have accounted for thousands of patient deaths, far outnumbering those of publicly funded and operated homes.

My question is to the Premier. Does this government think their plan to strong-arm seniors, patients, away from family and community-based services is best for their physical and mental health? Is this what the doctor ordered?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The Minister of Long-Term Care.

Hon. Paul Calandra: In fact, it’s only the opposition who are suggesting that our seniors should be strong-armed. In fact, we’re doing just the opposite. We’re providing different opportunities and solutions for those people who are being discharged from hospital and who are on the waiting list for long-term care.

Now we’re going even a step further, Mr. Speaker: In addition to the four hours of care that we’re already moving towards, through this legislation we are providing additional resources for dementia care and over $60 million in resources for Behavioural Supports Ontario on an ongoing basis. We’re providing kidney dialysis, for example, in homes. Only the opposition would suggest that we should bring somebody from a hospital to a home and back and forth.

We think our long-term-care homes can do better. That’s why we’re providing those additional resources to do that. It is about working with patients in hospital who want to be residents of a home, working side by side with their family, because we know how important family is to the well-being of their loved ones in long-term care, and that’s—

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

The supplementary question.

Ms. Jill Andrew: Back to the Premier: St. Paul’s residents, including board members such as Rabbi Shalom Schachter, among others, from the Toronto Area Interfaith Council, have shared their concerns about Bill 7 with me, since this government refused to consult with anyone—not patients, front-line health care workers, families or stakeholders—on Bill 7. To quote TAIC, “Unfortunately, while this bill will increase the number of hospital beds for persons needing acute care, it will not result in better care for the persons who will be pressured to move from those beds and warehoused into a LTC home not of their choice.”

My question—Speaker, through you—is back to the Premier: Why does this bill not make any reference to home care, the number one choice of seniors and advocates like TAIC, SPRINT Senior Care, Seniors for Social Action (Ontario), the OVCO seniors’ working group, the Reena Foundation, Community Living Toronto—I could go on and on—folks who want seniors to receive care while aging in place in their homes and communities for as long as possible? Why does a bill saying that it’s going to do better care not include home care? Why is home care absent?

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

Hon. Doug Ford: Thank you for the question. I don’t even know where to begin, there are so many items there, but let’s start off with consulting. We consulted with numerous CEOs across the province, and there isn’t one CEO of a hospital who doesn’t say there’s a massive problem with 6,000 people taking up hospital beds.

Number two, who in this chamber, including the member across the hallway, would stick their loved ones in a hospital bed, instead of giving them a home where they’re going to be able to leave the room and maybe see some entertainment? Or are they going to be stuck in a hospital bed, listening to bells go off and risking their health by being in there when they’re discharged from a doctor? We’re clogging up the system because there’s 6,000 people who shouldn’t be in there. They should be getting proper care in home care.

As for the Reena Foundation, I’ve been a supporter of the Reena Foundation for years. They’re big advocates of this government, because we’ve supported them, building new buildings, so maybe you should do your little bit of homework before you start accusing people.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): That concludes our question period for this morning.

Deferred Votes

Plan to Build Act (Budget Measures), 2022 / Loi de 2022 pour favoriser le développement (mesures budgétaires)

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

Bill 2,

An Act to implement Budget measures and to enact and amend various statutes / Projet de loi 2, Loi visant à mettre en oeuvre les mesures budgétaires et à édicter et à modifier diverses lois.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): We have a deferred vote on the motion for second reading of Bill 2,

An Act to implement Budget measures and to enact and amend various statutes.

Call in the members. This is a five-minute bell.

The division bells rang from 1140 to 1145.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I’ll ask the members to please take their seats.

On August 11, 2022, Mr. Bethlenfalvy moved second reading of Bill 2,

An Act to implement budget measures and to enact and amend various statutes.

All those in favour of the motion will please rise one at a time and be recognized by the Clerk.

Ayes

Anand, Deepak

Babikian, Aris

Bailey, Robert

Barnes, Patrice

Bethlenfalvy, Peter

Bouma, Will

Bresee, Ric

Byers, Rick

Calandra, Paul

Cho, Raymond Sung Joon

Cho, Stan

Clark, Steve

Coe, Lorne

Crawford, Stephen

Cuzzetto, Rudy

Dixon, Jess

Dowie, Andrew

Dunlop, Jill

Fedeli, Victor

Flack, Rob

Ford, Doug

Ford, Michael D.

Fullerton, Merrilee

Gallagher Murphy, Dawn

Ghamari, Goldie

Grewal, Hardeep Singh

Hardeman, Ernie

Harris, Mike

Hogarth, Christine

Jones, Sylvia

Jones, Trevor

Jordan, John

Kanapathi, Logan

Ke, Vincent

Kerzner, Michael S.

Khanjin, Andrea

Kusendova-Bashta, Natalia

Leardi, Anthony

Lecce, Stephen

Lumsden, Neil

Martin, Robin

McCarthy, Todd J.

McGregor, Graham

McNaughton, Monte

Mulroney, Caroline

Oosterhoff, Sam

Pang, Billy

Parsa, Michael

Pierre, Natalie

Pirie, George

Quinn, Nolan

Rasheed, Kaleed

Riddell, Brian

Romano, Ross

Sabawy, Sheref

Sandhu, Amarjot

Sarkaria, Prabmeet Singh

Sarrazin, Stéphane

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

Williams, Charmaine A.

Yakabuski, John

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): All those opposed to the motion will please rise one at a time and be recognized by the Clerk.

Nays

Andrew, Jill

Armstrong, Teresa J.

Begum, Doly

Bell, Jessica

Blais, Stephen

Bourgouin, Guy

Bowman, Stephanie

Burch, Jeff

Fraser, John

French, Jennifer K.

Gates, Wayne

Glover, Chris

Gretzky, Lisa

Harden, Joel

Hsu, Ted

Hunter, Mitzie

Kernaghan, Terence

Mamakwa, Sol

Mantha, Michael

McMahon, Mary-Margaret

Pasma, Chandra

Sattler, Peggy

Schreiner, Mike

Shamji, Adil

Shaw, Sandy

Stevens, Jennifer (Jennie)

Tabuns, Peter

Taylor, Monique

Vanthof, John

Vaugeois, Lise

West, Jamie

Wong-Tam, Kristyn

The Clerk of the Assembly (Mr. Todd Decker): The ayes are 74; the nays are 32.

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

Second reading agreed to.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Pursuant to the order of the House dated August 29, 2022, the bill is ordered for third reading.

More Beds, Better Care Act, 2022 / Loi de 2022 pour plus de lits et de meilleurs soins

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

Bill 7,

An Act to amend the Fixing Long-Term Care Act, 2021 with respect to patients requiring an alternate level of care and other matters and to make a consequential amendment to the Health Care Consent Act, 1996 / Projet de loi 7, Loi modifiant la Loi de 2021 sur le redressement des soins de longue durée en ce qui concerne les patients ayant besoin d’un niveau de soins différent et d’autres questions et apportant une modification corrélative à la Loi de 1996 sur le consentement aux soins de santé.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Call in the members. This will be another five-minute bell.

The division bells rang from 1149 to 1150.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): On August 23, 2022, Mr. Calandra moved second reading of Bill 7,

An Act to amend the Fixing Long-Term Care Act, 2021 with respect to patients requiring an alternate level of care and other matters and to make a consequential amendment to the Health Care Consent Act, 1996.

All those in favour of the motion will please rise one at a time and be counted by the Clerk.

Ayes

Anand, Deepak

Babikian, Aris

Bailey, Robert

Barnes, Patrice

Bethlenfalvy, Peter

Bouma, Will

Bresee, Ric

Byers, Rick

Calandra, Paul

Cho, Raymond Sung Joon

Cho, Stan

Clark, Steve

Coe, Lorne

Crawford, Stephen

Cuzzetto, Rudy

Dixon, Jess

Dowie, Andrew

Dunlop, Jill

Fedeli, Victor

Flack, Rob

Ford, Doug

Ford, Michael D.

Fullerton, Merrilee

Gallagher Murphy, Dawn

Ghamari, Goldie

Grewal, Hardeep Singh

Hardeman, Ernie

Harris, Mike

Hogarth, Christine

Jones, Sylvia

Jones, Trevor

Jordan, John

Kanapathi, Logan

Ke, Vincent

Kerzner, Michael S.

Khanjin, Andrea

Kusendova-Bashta, Natalia

Leardi, Anthony

Lecce, Stephen

Lumsden, Neil

Martin, Robin

McCarthy, Todd J.

McGregor, Graham

McNaughton, Monte

Mulroney, Caroline

Oosterhoff, Sam

Pang, Billy

Parsa, Michael

Pierre, Natalie

Pirie, George

Quinn, Nolan

Rasheed, Kaleed

Riddell, Brian

Romano, Ross

Sabawy, Sheref

Sandhu, Amarjot

Sarkaria, Prabmeet Singh

Sarrazin, Stéphane

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

Williams, Charmaine A.

Yakabuski, John

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): All those opposed to the motion will please rise one at a time and be recognized by the Clerk.

Nays

Andrew, Jill

Armstrong, Teresa J.

Begum, Doly

Bell, Jessica

Blais, Stephen

Bourgouin, Guy

Bowman, Stephanie

Burch, Jeff

Fraser, John

French, Jennifer K.

Gates, Wayne

Glover, Chris

Gretzky, Lisa

Harden, Joel

Hsu, Ted

Hunter, Mitzie

Kernaghan, Terence

Mamakwa, Sol

Mantha, Michael

McMahon, Mary-Margaret

Pasma, Chandra

Sattler, Peggy

Schreiner, Mike

Shamji, Adil

Shaw, Sandy

Stevens, Jennifer (Jennie)

Tabuns, Peter

Taylor, Monique

Vanthof, John

Vaugeois, Lise

West, Jamie

Wong-Tam, Kristyn

The Clerk of the Assembly (Mr. Todd Decker): The ayes are 74; the nays are 32.

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

Second reading agreed to.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Pursuant to the order of the House dated August 29, 2022, the bill is ordered for third reading.

Throne speech debate

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Next, we have a deferred vote on the motion for an address in reply to the speech from the throne.

Call in the members. This is another five-minute bell.

The division bells rang from 1154 to 1155.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): On August 10, 2022, Mr. McCarthy moved, seconded by Ms. Barnes, that an humble address be presented to Her Honour the Lieutenant Governor as follows:

“To the Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario:

“We, Her Majesty’s most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Legislative Assembly of the province of Ontario, now assembled, beg leave to thank Your Honour for the gracious speech Your Honour has been pleased to address to us at the opening of the present session.”

All those in favour of the motion will please rise one at a time and be recognized by the Clerk.

Ayes

Anand, Deepak

Babikian, Aris

Bailey, Robert

Barnes, Patrice

Bethlenfalvy, Peter

Bouma, Will

Bresee, Ric

Byers, Rick

Calandra, Paul

Cho, Raymond Sung Joon

Cho, Stan

Clark, Steve

Coe, Lorne

Crawford, Stephen

Cuzzetto, Rudy

Dixon, Jess

Dowie, Andrew

Dunlop, Jill

Fedeli, Victor

Flack, Rob

Ford, Doug

Ford, Michael D.

Fullerton, Merrilee

Gallagher Murphy, Dawn

Ghamari, Goldie

Grewal, Hardeep Singh

Hardeman, Ernie

Harris, Mike

Hogarth, Christine

Jones, Sylvia

Jones, Trevor

Jordan, John

Kanapathi, Logan

Ke, Vincent

Kerzner, Michael S.

Khanjin, Andrea

Kusendova-Bashta, Natalia

Leardi, Anthony

Lecce, Stephen

Lumsden, Neil

Martin, Robin

McCarthy, Todd J.

McGregor, Graham

McNaughton, Monte

Mulroney, Caroline

Oosterhoff, Sam

Pang, Billy

Parsa, Michael

Pierre, Natalie

Pirie, George

Quinn, Nolan

Rasheed, Kaleed

Riddell, Brian

Romano, Ross

Sabawy, Sheref

Sandhu, Amarjot

Sarkaria, Prabmeet Singh

Sarrazin, Stéphane

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

Williams, Charmaine A.

Yakabuski, John

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): All those opposed to the motion will please rise one at a time and be recognized by the Clerk.

Nays

Andrew, Jill

Armstrong, Teresa J.

Begum, Doly

Bell, Jessica

Blais, Stephen

Bourgouin, Guy

Bowman, Stephanie

Burch, Jeff

Fraser, John

French, Jennifer K.

Gates, Wayne

Glover, Chris

Gretzky, Lisa

Harden, Joel

Hsu, Ted

Hunter, Mitzie

Kernaghan, Terence

Mamakwa, Sol

Mantha, Michael

McMahon, Mary-Margaret

Pasma, Chandra

Sattler, Peggy

Schreiner, Mike

Shamji, Adil

Shaw, Sandy

Stevens, Jennifer (Jennie)

Tabuns, Peter

Taylor, Monique

Vanthof, John

Vaugeois, Lise

West, Jamie

Wong-Tam, Kristyn

The Clerk of the Assembly (Mr. Todd Decker): The ayes are 74; the nays are 32.

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

Motion agreed to.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott):

Be it resolved that an humble address be presented to Her Honour the Lieutenant Governor as follows:

“To the Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario:

“We, Her Majesty’s most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Legislative Assembly of the province of Ontario, now assembled, beg leave to thank Your Honour for the gracious speech Your Honour has been pleased to address to us at the opening of the present session.”

Correction of record

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The member for Ottawa Centre has informed me he’s got a point of order.

Mr. Joel Harden: Just briefly, Speaker, to correct my record on a point of order: Earlier I thanked you for your help in bringing our friends from the Kamengo Cultural Troupe, who will be performing right after we leave here in room 228.

I also wanted to specifically thank Mr. Eric Rennie from assembly protocol, who has been a huge help to our friends who are here from Uganda, who are excited to meet you all after.

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

There being no further business at this time, this House stands in recess until 3 p.m.

The House recessed from 1159 to 1500.

Introduction of Visitors

Mr. Todd J. McCarthy: Mr. Dennis Ong is in the assembly. He is a member of the Aviva Trial Lawyers’ team and a deputy judge of the Small Claims Court.

Introduction of Bills

No Time to Waste Act (Plan for Climate Action and Jobs), 2022 / Loi de 2022 sur la nécessité de ne pas gaspiller de temps (plan en matière d’action pour le climat et l’emploi)

Mr. Tabuns moved first reading of the following bill:

Bill 14,

An Act to enact the Climate Crisis Health Action Plan Act, 2022 the Ontario Climate Crisis Strategy for the Public Sector Act, 2022 and the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis Act, 2022 / Projet de loi 14, Loi édictant la Loi de 2022 sur le Plan d’action sur la crise climatique et la santé, la Loi de 2022 sur la Stratégie du secteur public de l’Ontario relative à la crise climatique et la Loi de 2022 sur le Comité spécial de l’action relative à la crise climatique.

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 would like to invite the Leader of the Opposition to give a brief explanation of his bill by reading the explanatory note.

Mr. Peter Tabuns: There are three parts to this bill. The first is to develop and publish a strategic action plan that aims to ensure that Ontario’s public health care system is actually prepared to deal with the climate crisis.

The second

part is to set up a climate crisis strategy for the public sector to maximize the impact of the public sector on preparations for the climate crisis and to mitigate the effects of increased emissions.

Lastly, it’s to set up a select committee of this Legislature to put together a plan for Ontario as a whole to take on this issue.

Fairness for Road Users Act (Contraventions Causing Death or Serious Bodily Harm), 2022 / Loi de 2022 sur l’équité envers les usagers de la route (contraventions ayant causé un décès ou des blessures corporelles graves)

Ms. French moved first reading of the following bill:

Bill 15,

An Act to amend the Highway Traffic Act to create an offence of contravention causing death or serious bodily harm / Projet de loi 15, Loi modifiant le Code de la route pour ériger en infraction le fait d’avoir causé un décès ou des blessures corporelles graves pendant la commission d’une contravention.

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 Oshawa care to give a brief explanation of her bill.

Ms. Jennifer K. French: This is a reintroduction of my bill from the previous session, and it amends the Highway Traffic Act. If a person causes or contributes to causing an accident which causes death or serious bodily harm and, at the time, the person was contravening the Highway Traffic Act or its regulations, then the person is guilty of an offence.

The court may sentence the person to a fine of up to $50,000 or to imprisonment of up to two years or both. The court may also suspend the person’s driver’s licence or permit.

We all know that bad things can happen on the roads when people violate the Highway Traffic Act. However, as it stands now, in the event that someone dies or is significantly injured as a result, there is not a significant penalty that can be given upon sentencing.

This bill would increase penalties if someone on the road breaks a driving law and hurts or kills someone. This bill would give the court options during sentencing so that families might no longer suffer insult after suffering injury.

Racial Equity in the Education System Act, 2022 / Loi de 2022 sur l’équité raciale dans le système d’éducation

Ms. Vaugeois moved first reading of the following bill:

Bill 16,

An Act to amend various Acts with respect to racial equity / Projet de loi 16, Loi modifiant diverses lois en ce qui concerne l’équité raciale.

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 would invite the member for Thunder Bay–Superior North to briefly explain her bill.

Ms. Lise Vaugeois: It is my honour to be a co-sponsor of this bill, along with my outstanding colleagues from Kitchener Centre and Toronto–St. Paul’s.

This bill,

An Act to amend various Acts with respect to racial equity, looks to amend various acts with respect to racial equity in the education system.

A number of amendments are made to acts including the Education Act, the Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario Act, the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Act, the Ontario College of Teachers Act and the Ontario Colleges of Applied Arts and Technology Act.

Abuse Prevention Week Act, 2022 / Loi de 2022 sur la Semaine de la prévention des mauvais traitements

Mr. Mantha moved first reading of the following bill:

Bill 17,

An Act to proclaim Abuse Prevention Week and to establish an Abuse Prevention Framework Advisory Committee / Projet de loi 17, Loi proclamant la Semaine de la prévention des mauvais traitements et constituant un comité consultatif du cadre de prévention des mauvais traitements.

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 Algoma–Manitoulin care to briefly explain his bill.

Mr. Michael Mantha: The bill enacts the Abuse Prevention Week Act, 2022.

The act proclaims the week beginning on the first Sunday in October in each year as Abuse Prevention Week. The act establishes an Abuse Prevention Framework Advisory Committee to provide recommendations to the Minister of Education, and requires the Minister of Education to issue curriculum guidelines respecting abuse prevention in accordance with the committee’s recommendation. The curriculum is required to be taught during Abuse Prevention Week.

Petitions

Services de santé dans le Nord

M me France Gélinas: J’aimerais remercier M me Simone Mathieu de Gogama dans mon comté pour ces pétitions.

« Centre de soins infirmiers de Gogama....

« Alors que Gogama est une communauté isolée au nord de l’Ontario avec de nombreux aîné(e)s et résident(e)s qui ont besoin d’accès à des soins primaires;

« Alors que le Centre de soins infirmiers de Gogama a donné accès à des soins primaires de qualité pendant des décennies, mais que le service est inconsistant et irrégulier depuis le début de 2018;

« Alors que les résident(e)s des communautés isolées du nord de l’Ontario méritent un accès équitable aux soins de santé; »

Ils pétitionnent « l’Assemblée législative de l’Ontario de s’assurer que le Centre de soins infirmiers de Gogama soit financé, doté en personnel et pleinement opérationnel pour fournir des soins primaires de qualité », et ce, « de façon constante. »

J’appuie cette pétition, monsieur le Président. Je vais la signer et je la donne à Liliana pour l’amener à la table des greffiers.

Injured workers

Mr. Michael Mantha: This petition is titled, “Petition for an Official Statement of Apology on Behalf of the” Government “of Ontario to the McIntyre Powder Project Miners.

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas over 25,000 Ontario mine workers were subjected by their employers to mandatory, non-consensual inhalation of finely ground aluminum dust known as ‘McIntyre Powder’ between 1943 and 1979, as a scientifically unproven industrial medical treatment for the lung disease silicosis; and

“Whereas the government of Ontario supported and sanctioned the McIntyre Powder aluminum prophylaxis program despite the availability of safe and proven alternatives to effective silicosis prevention measures such as improved dust control and ventilation, and also despite expert evidence from the international scientific and medical community as early as 1946 that recommended against the use of McIntyre Powder treatments; and

“Whereas the miners who were forced to inhale McIntyre Powder experienced distress, immediate and long-term health effects from their experiences and exposures associated with aluminum inhalation treatments, as documented through their participation in the McIntyre Powder Project;

“We, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to provide an official statement of apology to the McIntyre Powder Project miners.”

I completely agree with this petition. I affix my name and present it to page Juliet to bring it down to the Clerks’ table.

Organ donation

M me France Gélinas: I would like to thank Colette Pilon, from Capreol in my riding, for these petitions.

“Saving Organs to Save Lives....

“Whereas Ontario has one of the best organ transplant programs in the world;

“Whereas there are currently 1,600”—actually, 3,600—“people waiting for a life-saving organ transplant in Ontario;

“Whereas every three days someone in Ontario dies because they can’t get a transplant in time;

“Whereas donating organs and tissues can save up to eight lives and improve the lives of up to 75 people;

“Whereas 90% of Ontarians support organ donation, but only 36% are registered;

“Whereas Nova Scotia has seen increases in organs and tissue for transplant after implementing a presumed consent legislation in January 2020;”

They “petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario as follows:

“Change the legislation to allow a donor system based on presumed consent....”

I fully support this petition, Speaker. I will affix my name to it and send it to the table with page Prassan.

Social assistance

Mr. Michael Mantha: This petition is entitled, “To Raise Social Assistance Rates.”

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas Ontario’s social assistance rates are well below Canada’s official Market Basket Measure poverty line and woefully inadequate to cover the basic costs of food and rent;

“Whereas individuals on the Ontario Works program receive just $733 per month and individuals on the Ontario Disability Support Program receive just $1,169 per month, only 41% and 65% of the poverty line;

“Whereas the Ontario government has not increased social assistance rates since 2018, and Canada’s inflation rate in January 2022 was 5.1%, the highest rate in 30 years;

“We, the undersigned citizens of Ontario, petition the Legislative Assembly to increase social assistance rates to a base of $2,000 per month for those on Ontario Works, and to increase other programs accordingly.”

I agree with this petition, will affix my name and present it to, again, page Juliet to bring it down to the Clerks’ table.

Front-line workers

M me France Gélinas: I would like to thank Claude Arsenault, from Val Caron in my riding, for these petitions.

“Make PSW a Career....

“Whereas there has been a shortage of personal support workers (PSWs) in long-term care ... in Ontario for many years;

“Whereas Ontario’s personal support workers are overworked, underpaid and underappreciated, leading to many of them leaving the profession;

“Whereas the lack of PSWs has created a crisis in LTC, a broken home care system, and poor-quality” life “for LTC home residents and home care clients;”

They “petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario as follows:

“Tell Premier Ford to act now to make PSW jobs a career, with” permanent “full-time employment, good wages, paid sick days, benefits, a pension plan and a manageable workload in order to respect the important work of PSWs and improve patient care.”

I fully support this petition, Speaker, will affix my name to it, and ask Liliana to bring it to the Clerk.

Multiple sclerosis

M me France Gélinas: I would like to thank Wayne Fogal from Whitefish in my riding for this petition, called, “MS Specialized Clinic in Sudbury....

“Whereas northeastern Ontario has one of the highest rates of multiple sclerosis (MS) in Ontario;

“Whereas specialized MS clinics provide essential health care services to those living with multiple sclerosis, their caregiver and their family;

“Whereas the city of Greater Sudbury is recognized as a hub for health care in northeastern Ontario;”

They “petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario as follows:

“Immediately set up a specialized MS clinic in the Sudbury area that is staffed by a neurologist who specializes in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, a physiotherapist and a social worker at a minimum.”

I fully support this petition, will affix my name to it, and ask my good page Liliana to bring it to the Clerk.

Highway safety

M me France Gélinas: I would like to thank Mr. Maximus Gagnon from Hanmer in my riding for this petition:

“Make Highway 144 at Marina Road Safe....

“Whereas residents of Levack, Onaping and Cartier, as well as individuals who travel Highway 144, are concerned about the safety of a stretch of Highway 144 in the vicinity of Marina Road and woul