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December 3, 2018

42nd Parliament, 1st Session

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Hansard Transcripts

Votes and Proceedings

Orders and Notices

Hansard Transcript 2018-Dec-03 (PDF)

L058 - Mon 3 Dec 2018 / Lun 3 déc 2018

LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF ONTARIO

ASSEMBLÉE LÉGISLATIVE DE L’ONTARIO

Monday 3 December 2018 Lundi 3 décembre 2018

Introduction of Visitors

Oral Questions

Automotive industry

Government accountability

Government accountability

Police services

Ontario Provincial Police

Environmental protection

Climate change

Gasoline prices

Environmental protection

Court facilities

Immigrant and refugee services

Public transit

Economic development

Environmental protection

Visitors

Sign-language

interpretation

Visitors

Introduction of Visitors

Members’ Statements

Waterfront for All

Les Cruickshank

GO Transit

Ford Motor Company

Services for persons with disabilities

Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario / Tribunal des droits de la personne de l’Ontario

Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent

World AIDS Day

Scarborough Health Network

Reports by Committees

Standing Committee on Estimates

Motions

House sittings

Statements by the Ministry and Responses

International Day of Persons with Disabilities / Journée internationale des personnes handicapées

Petitions

Injured workers

Animal protection

Wearing of poppies

Long-term care

Indigenous affairs

Injured workers

Climate change

Curriculum

Diagnostic services

Orders of the Day

Standing orders

The House met at 1030.

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

Prayers.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I wish to acknowledge this territory as a traditional gathering place for many Indigenous nations, most recently the Mississaugas of the New Credit.

This being the first sitting Monday of the month, I ask everyone to join in the singing of O Canada. Today, we have with us in the Speaker’s gallery the St. Joseph’s College School senior vocal class from the riding of University–Rosedale to help us sing our national anthem.

Singing of O Canada.

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

Introduction of Visitors

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I would like to draw to the attention of members that we have with us in the Speaker’s gallery today a delegation from the People’s Congress of Hebei, China, led by the executive vice-chairman of the Hebei standing committee, Mr. Fan Zhaobing. Please join me in welcoming our special guests to the Ontario Legislature today.

Applause.

Mr. Joel Harden: I want to give a huge note of thanks to our friends from the March of Dimes, the spinal cord injury association of Ontario and all the participants at the lovely breakfast this morning. Thank you for being here. Thank you for hosting us. Welcome to your House.

Hon. Monte McNaughton: I’d like to welcome, from the great riding of Lambton–Kent–Middlesex, a long-time friend and business executive, Connie Graham. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Mr. Peter Tabuns: It gives me pleasure to welcome Chloë Robert, trustee with the Conseil scolaire Viamonde. Welcome to Queen’s Park, Chloë.

Miss Kinga Surma: I would like to introduce my mom, Margaret Surma, my dad, Miroslaw Surma, and my wonderful brother, Konrad Surma, who are joining us today in the House—

Applause.

Miss Kinga Surma: —and Nick Sklar and James Langstaff. Yes, give them a round of applause.

Mr. Gilles Bisson: I would like to welcome Louis Clausi, all the way from Timmins, who is here with us today. He’s also the local president of the OECTA unit up in our area.

Mr. Vincent Ke: Sitting in the members’ gallery, I would like to introduce my good friends: Mr. Liu, Bin; and his lovely wife Yang, Jing. This is their first time visiting Queen’s Park. Welcome, and I hope you enjoy your visit.

Mr. Jeremy Roberts: At the risk of being repetitive, I must also warmly welcome Mr. and Mrs. Surma to the Legislature. While they may be the parents of the wonderful member from Etobicoke, they are residents of the wonderful riding of Ottawa West–Nepean. It’s great to have them here.

Hon. Lisa MacLeod: Not to be outdone by the member from Etobicoke or the member from Ottawa West–Nepean, I am going to introduce the Surmas because they live around the corner from me.

Oral Questions

Automotive industry

Ms. Andrea Horwath: My question is to the Acting Premier. On Friday, I had a chance to meet with workers at GM as they came on shift. They took a big hit last week, but they know that they have the skill and talent to build some of the best cars in the world, even if the government party doesn’t seem to think so, and they want to fight GM’s decision to shut down operations in Oshawa.

Their question to me was, “Why is the government so determined to throw in the towel?” Can the Deputy Premier tell us?

Hon. Christine Elliott: Minister of Finance.

Hon. Victor Fedeli: Certainly, when Premier Ford was there when this first occurred, he immediately acknowledged that it is a difficult time for workers at the General Motors Oshawa assembly plant and for the thousands of workers at hundreds of auto parts suppliers across Ontario, and their families and friends.

It is disappointing that GM failed to see the competitive advantage that Oshawa’s highly trained staff brought to the operations in Oshawa. Of course, GM says that this move is part of a global restructuring. That is why we need to make sure the world knows that after 15 years of job-killing policies, Ontario is open for business.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary.

Ms. Andrea Horwath: Speaker, there is a huge amount at stake here. GM employs thousands of people directly but there are thousands more who work in companies that supply GM.

Interjection.

Ms. Andrea Horwath: Notwithstanding the government not allowing me to get my question out, municipal and business leaders are estimating that the ripple effect could lead to 20,000 job losses in Oshawa and the Durham region. The Premier may be resigned to letting those jobs go to Mexico and China, but we think they are worth fighting for.

At a time when people in Oshawa are looking for leadership, Speaker, why is this government throwing in the towel?

Hon. Victor Fedeli: Speaker, Premier Ford immediately authorized Employment Ontario to deploy our Rapid Re-employment and Training Service program to provide impacted local workers with targeted local training and job services to help them regain employment as quickly as possible.

We’ve also asked the federal government to immediately extend employment insurance eligibility to ensure the impacted workers in the auto sector can fully access EI benefits when they need them the most, and to work with their US counterparts to remove all tariffs that are impacting auto parts suppliers so that we can remain competitive as the Oshawa assembly plant closes its doors.

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

Ms. Andrea Horwath: Speaker, what they told me is that they want good jobs and they want their government to fight for those good jobs.

Over decades, the people of Oshawa have built a world-class auto industry, a university that produces cutting-edge research and technology, and a skilled workforce that is second to none. General Motors might think that they can walk away from that, but the Premier’s job is to tell them that they are wrong, and to use every tool at his disposal to keep those jobs in Oshawa and keep work in that community. Why is the government so determined to side with GM’s plan to abandon Oshawa?

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Members, please take your seats.

Minister?

Hon. Victor Fedeli: Speaker, we’ve been working since day one to reverse 15 years of bad policies. I appreciate the leader’s comments, but the NDP continue to want the highest carbon tax in the world. They want Ontario to be a place where it’s unaffordable to make cars, unaffordable to buy cars and unaffordable to drive cars. So when the NDP come in here and say they’re fighting for the workers, we know two things:

(1) They don’t have a plan, and (2) their policies would kill the automotive sector.

I can appreciate the leader is here to make her comments, but it did take her almost a week to get to the plant, and she did refuse a briefing by Minister Smith.

Government accountability

Ms. Andrea Horwath: Speaker, my next question is also to the Acting Premier—

Interjection.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Member for King–Vaughan, come to order.

Ms. Andrea Horwath: —who really should understand—

Interjection.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Member for King–Vaughan, come to order.

Ms. Andrea Horwath: —that 70% of GM’s new investment is going to be in green cars—

Interjection.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The member for King–Vaughan is warned.

Ms. Andrea Horwath: —in electric vehicles and in autonomous vehicles. But this is a question for the Acting Premier regarding leadership and the Premier’s standards for his staff.

On Friday, Alykhan Velshi worked his last day as an executive at Ontario Power Generation. He was fired and given up to half a million dollars in severance in what he called “unusual circumstances.” Will the government finally admit that those unusual circumstances were that the Premier’s chief of staff, Dean French, called OPG to demand that he be fired after a single day on the job?

Hon. Christine Elliott: To the Minister of Energy.

Hon. Greg Rickford: Hydro One is responsible for its own staffing decisions, and they’ve made their own staffing decisions and we respect that.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary.

Ms. Andrea Horwath: Speaker, on Friday the Globe and Mail reported that, once again, the Premier’s chief of staff was intervening in the electricity sector, this time to land a job for Anthony Haines, the former CEO of Toronto Hydro, a man the Premier just happened to work closely with for many years.

Can the government tell us what the Premier’s chief of staff is up to these days?

Hon. Greg Rickford: As I said previously, Hydro One is responsible for their own hiring decisions.

Following years of outrageous Liberal scandals and $6-million salaries, the government for the people has taken measures to improve accountability and transparency. At Hydro One, this includes a legislative provision to approve a responsible and reasonable compensation package for the CEO and the board selected, which we will be proceeding with in the near future.

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

Ms. Andrea Horwath: Well, it sounds like it depends on what kind of a people you are. If you’re a friend of Doug Ford’s, you get a job; if you’re not a friend, you lose a job.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I ask the Leader of the Opposition to refer to the Premier by his ministerial title—by “Premier.”

Ms. Andrea Horwath: Speaker, the fact of the matter is that intervening in the hiring process is actually a violation of the government’s agreement with Hydro One—that is the reality—especially if he’s intervening to land a job for an associate of the Premier.

Why is the Premier’s chief of staff, Dean French, intervening in this process?

Hon. Greg Rickford: Following years of outrageous Liberal scandals and the $6-million salary of its former president and CEO, the government for the people has taken measures to improve accountability and transparency at Hydro One. This includes a legislative provision to approve a responsible and reasonable compensation package framework for the CEO and the board of directors selected, and we’re proceeding with that now.

Government accountability

Ms. Andrea Horwath: Speaker, my next question is also to the Acting Premier. But I have to say, after years of scandals, Ontarians certainly deserve much better than more of the same.

Mr. Haines had a troubling record at Toronto Hydro, pushing privatization while his salary grew 32% to $1.1 million a year, and the Premier, then a Toronto councillor, was his staunch defender.

Does the Acting Premier think it is appropriate for the Premier’s chief of staff to meddle in the hiring process to get Mr. Haines a job?

Hon. Christine Elliott: Minister of Energy.

Hon. Greg Rickford: As a private corporation, the board of Hydro One is responsible for their own hiring decisions. Following years of outrageous Liberal scandals and a $6-million salary for its CEO, the government for the people has taken measures to improve accountability and transparency at Hydro One. This includes a legislative provision to approve a responsible and reasonable compensation framework for the CEO and the board of directors selected, which we are proceeding with now as we speak.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary.

Ms. Andrea Horwath: Speaker, the people of Ontario want to know that when it comes to important positions like this one, the person who’s hired was actually the best person for the job, not the best friend of the Premier.

Why is the Premier’s chief of staff meddling in the hiring process to get Mr. Haines the job?

Hon. Greg Rickford: It was abundantly clear that a government for the people needed to take measures to improve transparency and accountability at Hydro One, and we moved forward with a legislative provision to approve a responsible and reasonable compensation package for the CEO and the board selected.

You want to talk about a political party who really wanted to get involved in the operational decisions of a company? Talk about part of their campaign platform, to cancel 7,000 jobs in the beautiful riding of Pickering–Uxbridge. That’s not a decision made available to that leader, and it wouldn’t have been, had she become Premier.

We stood up for those workers. We stood up for an asset that provides 60% of Ontario’s hydro. We’re going to do that every single day.

Police services

Mr. Randy Pettapiece: My question is for the Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services.

Mr. Speaker, Ontario’s government for the people was elected with a mandate to improve public safety across this province and to provide the brave men and women of our police services with the tools and resources they need to perform their duties safely and effectively. After 15 years of Liberal neglect, our government is making investments in the key priority of keeping communities safe. Earlier this year, our government announced a $182-million investment to replace aging OPP facilities with nine new detachments province-wide.

Could the minister please update the members of this Legislature on how these new OPP detachments will improve public safety in Ontario?

Hon. Sylvia Jones: I really appreciate the question from the member from Perth–Wellington because I know that he understands how important public safety is to our communities and to our Premier.

It was a great pleasure, on Friday, to go to Clinton and join my friends and colleagues the Minister of Education and the Minister of Infrastructure to announce Clinton’s new OPP detachment. It will ensure that our front-line officers have the resources they need to do their job, to serve their community. The infrastructure is going to make a real difference to the community of Huron, and I was pleased to be part of it on Friday.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary.

Mr. Randy Pettapiece: Thank you very much, Minister, for that answer and for your continued advocacy when it comes to ensuring the safety of our province.

Projects like the new OPP detachments are key to ensuring the safety of our province and providing the much-needed support to our brave men and women in uniform. For far too long, it seemed that wherever you would go in our province, the key government buildings and infrastructure projects would be left in a state of disrepair.

Could the minister elaborate on the role that the Minister of Infrastructure played regarding the impact that infrastructure projects like this will have for our communities like Clinton and across the province?

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

Hon. Monte McNaughton: I’d like to thank the member for Perth–Wellington for his strong leadership in these projects and others.

Mr. Speaker, infrastructure for the people means giving our police forces, including the brave men and women of the OPP, the tools they need to keep all of our communities safe. I was pleased to join the Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services and the Minister of Education in announcing a $20-million investment in a new OPP detachment in Clinton, Ontario. I would also like to thank the Bird Construction crew for working with the local workforce in building the detachment, which is strategically located next to the fire hall and EMS.

Our government was elected with a strong mandate to rebuild this province. Whether it’s the Clinton OPP detachment, new Groves Memorial Community Hospital, the expansion of Credit Valley Hospital or the rebuild of the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, we will make life better for the people of Ontario.

Ontario Provincial Police

Mr. Kevin Yarde: My question is for the Acting Premier. We’re going to continue along the same line as the question from our leader, so all I can say is, here we go again.

Late Thursday, the government announced that Ron Taverner had been chosen as the new commissioner of the Ontario Provincial Police. Among others, Chris Lewis, the former commissioner of the OPP, has serious concerns about this appointment, calling it “simply not right and not what’s best for the organization.” Like many, he has raised concerns about the new commissioner’s close relationship with the Premier.

Can the Acting Premier tell us who was on the selection committee and how they arrived at their selection?

Hon. Christine Elliott: Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services.

Hon. Sylvia Jones: Through you, Speaker: I think the only accurate part of that question was, yes, on Thursday afternoon we were proud to announce that Ron Taverner will become the new OPP commissioner in the province of Ontario.

As many of us know, the incoming commissioner has a 50-year history on the front lines of policing. All weekend I have been answering calls from front-line officers saying, “Thank you. You have done exactly what we need.”

The choice was made by an independent commissioner, and it was approved by cabinet on Thursday. I’m proud of the OPP commissioner, and I look forward to working with him in the coming years.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary.

Mr. Kevin Yarde: That was the answer I expected to get: no answer. When it comes to keeping families safe and running a police force of 9,000—

Interjections.

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

Restart the clock. The member can put his question.

Mr. Kevin Yarde: When it comes to keeping families safe and running a police force of 9,000 people, the people of Ontario need to know the best person was hired for the job. When a former OPP commissioner raises serious concerns about the hiring process, they cannot simply be dismissed.

Mr. Speaker, will the government commit to a transparent and impartial review of the hiring process for this incredibly important job?

Hon. Sylvia Jones: Clearly, the member opposite doesn’t want to take my word for it, so allow me to share some of the quotes.

Bruce Chapman, president of the Ontario police association: “I’ve known Superintendent Ron Taverner for 30-plus years. He’s a hard-working, progressive and dedicated officer. Ron is a great choice to lead” the OPP.

Mark Saunders, Chief of Police from the Toronto Police Service: “After serving Toronto Police for more than 50 years, there are few people who will leave behind a legacy so rich in community service as Ron Taverner.... I wish him every success as he begins a new

chapter with” the OPP.

I could go on and on, but the point is that this independent selection committee made an excellent choice, and we are proud to stand behind him and so are the OPP.

Interjections.

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

Interjection.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry, come to order.

Start the clock. Next question.

Environmental protection

Mr. Sheref Sabawy: My question is for the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. Ontario is blessed with magnificent forests, lakes and rivers. Those of us who call Ontario home could not ask for a better place to live, work and raise a family. The quality of life enjoyed by our people, as well as the success of our businesses, depend on having clean air to breathe, safe water to drink and well-protected lands and parks. Ontarians recognize the role we play and the responsibility we all share to protect and preserve the province we know and love.

Can the minister tell this House what role Ontario has played to ensure we all have a healthy environment to enjoy?

Hon. Rod Phillips: Mr. Speaker, through you to the member for Mississauga–Erin Mills: Thank you for that question. As the member knows, as the House knows, we introduced our Made-in-Ontario Environment Plan on Thursday. That plan will ensure that we protect and conserve our air, our water and our land; that we fight climate change; and that we reduce urban litter and waste.

But the member is quite right: Ontario has a history in terms of the environment. In fact, with regard to climate, Ontario since 2005 has reduced its emissions by 22%. This is at the same time as the rest of Canada has increased it by 3%.

The plan that we presented on Thursday is a plan that balances a healthy economy and a healthy environment. It does not impose a job-killing tax on Ontarians, but it does protect our environment and it does fight climate change.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary.

Mr. Sheref Sabawy: The minister makes some great points about the progress this province has made. Every time we filled up our tanks, we were met with increasing gas prices. Every time we turned up our heat, we knew it would cost us more. Families felt a burden they should never have to feel: deciding between putting food on their tables and heating their homes. It is time that Ontarians receive some recognition for the sacrifices they have made and the ones they continue to pay for every day.

Can the minister highlight for us how our plan focuses on striking the right balance between a healthy environment and a strong economy?

Hon. Rod Phillips: Again, thank you to the member for the question. Our made-in-Ontario plan is a great plan because it was built by Ontarians—over 8,000 Ontarians contributed, over 150 stakeholders made contributions to discussions, and we looked at the best global plans in terms of how to approach this. That’s why we will be able to say that our plan, through a straightforward and understandable common-sense approach, is going to take Ontario to the Paris targets that our nation agreed to. We will see reductions of 30% from 2005 levels by 2030.

Our plan is thoughtful. Our plan also deals with litter. Our plan also deals with waste. It deals with pollution in our rivers and lakes. It deals with our air. It deals with excess soil. It deals with a range of issues that Ontarians are concerned about—again, a plan that balances a healthy economy and a healthy environment.

Climate change

Mr. Peter Tabuns: My question is to the Minister of the Environment. Last week, the government revealed a climate change plan that forces taxpayers to give large emitters millions of public dollars. Instead of making polluters pay, Ontario’s taxpayers must now pay the polluters. How is this fair?

Hon. Rod Phillips: Our plan strikes a balance. It’s a balance that the opposition may not understand. Our plan, in a sensible, common-sense way, takes the hard work that Ontarians have put in and adds that additional 8%—18 megatonnes—of greenhouse gas reductions that will get us to the Paris targets that our national government agreed to.

For months now, the NDP have talked about a plan and targets and asked us where they are. Our plan and our targets are on the table as of Thursday. Where are theirs?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary?

Mr. Peter Tabuns: The NDP supports climate change action that is fair, effective and transparent. The Premier’s plan is not fair, because instead of making polluters pay, the Premier is forcing the people to pay polluters. The plan is not effective, because Australia already tried this and it didn’t work; greenhouse gas emissions there are going up, not down. And this plan is not transparent, because it has no details about how the Premier will decide which insiders will get these payments.

Will the minister withdraw this plan and replace it with a fair, effective and transparent plan that does not force taxpayers to give millions of dollars to big polluters?

Interjections.

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

Minister.

Hon. Rod Phillips: Our made-in-Ontario plan does take the best ideas from around the world, including the New York Green Bank, where we will get $4 of private money for every $1 of public investment.

For the first time, there will be a comprehensive impact assessment about climate change so that we can understand the impacts on communities. We will work with communities and we’ll work with individuals to deal with the impacts of climate change, unlike what the opposition suggests.

Mr. Speaker, as I said, they’ve been calling for a plan; they’ve been calling for targets. Our targets are the Paris targets. Our plan is a sensible plan that gets to those reductions. Their plan is a carbon tax. Their plan punishes families: $150 a tonne and 30-cent increases in gasoline—that’s the NDP plan.

M me Nathalie Des Rosiers: I am seeking unanimous consent to be able to ask a question on behalf of my friend from Don Valley East.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The member for Ottawa–Vanier is seeking unanimous consent of the House to ask a question on behalf of her colleague the member from Don Valley East. Agreed? Agreed.

M me Nathalie Des Rosiers: Ma question est pour la vice-première ministre. Comme plusieurs de mes collègues de différents partis, j’ai participé à la marche samedi après-midi pour les francophones.

Even though they account for 4.7% of the population, il semble que 13 000 d’entre eux partout en province se sont déplacés. Au monument des droits de la personne à Ottawa, il y avait des milliers de personnes. Des députés de l’Assemblée nationale du Québec sont venus pour exprimer leur appui, ainsi que des francophones de partout au pays. Les francophones se sont battus à plusieurs reprises pendant leur histoire pour obtenir les acquis qu’ils ont maintenant. Ils ne veulent pas les perdre.

Hon. Christine Elliott: The Attorney General.

L’hon. Caroline Mulroney: La députée a raison. Les Franco-Ontariens et Franco-Ontariennes font une

partie intégrante et importante de notre province, de notre histoire et de notre avenir. C’est pourquoi notre gouvernement s’engage à continuer à travailler pour les Franco-Ontariens, qui ont travaillé très fort pendant des générations à faire avancer leur communauté ainsi que notre province dans son ensemble.

Cette fin de semaine il y a des centaines, des milliers, de Franco-Ontariens et de francophones qui ont manifesté, et notre gouvernement a écouté. On est ici pour écouter et on est ici pour représenter les intérêts des Franco-Ontariens. On va continuer à faire ça, monsieur le Président. Les mesures que nous avons annoncées ne vont en aucune façon faire reculer les acquis des Franco-Ontariens. On va continuer à protéger les droits linguistiques et on va continuer à—

Interjection.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The member from Algoma–Manitoulin, come to order.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary.

M me Nathalie Des Rosiers: La communauté francophone est prête à aller devant les tribunaux pour revendiquer ses droits et préserver ses acquis. Il est clair, d’après la Cour d’appel de l’Ontario dans l’arrêt Lalonde, que les décisions administratives ne peuvent pas mettre en péril les acquis et les institutions de la minorité linguistique. Il faut tenir compte de l’effet sur la communauté avant de prendre des décisions administratives.

La ministre a-t-elle considéré le risque juridique de ces décisions? Pourquoi préfère-t-elle dépenser de l’argent devant les instances judiciaires plutôt que de travailler avec la communauté et de reconnaître les erreurs qui ont été faites au cours des dernières semaines?

Nous avons été élus avec un mandat pour tous les Ontariens, y compris les Franco-Ontariens. On va protéger les droits linguistiques. On va remettre l’Ontario sur la voie de la prospérité.

Gasoline prices

Mr. Norman Miller: My question is for the Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines. Our government made a very clear promise to the people of Ontario that we would reduce the price of gasoline. Early on in our mandate, we are delivering on that promise. We took immediate action by scrapping the previous government’s cap-and-trade carbon tax, which has already reduced the price that Ontario families are paying at the pump. Ending cap-and-trade took 4.3 cents a litre off of gasoline and 5 cents a litre off of diesel.

But parts of northern Ontario are not benefiting from our government’s action to reduce gas prices. Can the minister let the Legislature know what he is doing to fix this issue?

Hon. Greg Rickford: I want to thank the member from Parry Sound–Muskoka for bringing this issue to light.

Mr. Speaker, there’s no question that we’ve taken concrete action to reduce the price per litre of gasoline in the province of Ontario. Many parts of the province have seen that reflected in the price per litre when they go to the gas pumps.

I heed the concerns expressed by my colleagues across the way from northern Ontario that not all of that has translated to our price per litre in northern Ontario. In northwestern Ontario, in particular, we have not seen any of these savings. From Thunder Bay west, we saw only a drop of a third of that over the same period.

It’s clear to me that these savings are not being passed on. I’m speaking today not just on behalf of the people from the great Kenora–Rainy River district, but also up in Kiiwetinoong, where the prices are grossly distorted and unfair as they relate to other pricing that goes on in the province.

Our solution is not state intervention, as proposed. That has not proven to work for the provinces that use it or the states that have used this model. We’re going to stand up for fair pricing—

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

Supplementary?

Mr. Norman Miller: Thank you to the minister for addressing this issue that is so important in the north. I deeply appreciate having a minister with so much experience standing up for northern Ontarians’ interests.

It’s incredible that while average prices of gasoline have fallen in the rest of Ontario, northern Ontario is not benefiting from these reductions. I know the minister will continue to fight for northern communities and make sure that everyone in our province benefits from our government’s policy decisions.

Residents in the north rely on gasoline to drive long distances to work, to put food on the table. They drive their kids to hockey practice. They drive to the grocery store. There are very few alternatives to driving in northern Ontario.

I’d like to thank the minister for his hard work on this file, and ask him what next steps the government is taking to ensure northerners benefit from lower gas prices.

Hon. Greg Rickford: The member from Parry Sound–Muskoka is right to point out that in order for our children to travel for competitions in sports and other activities, it costs us considerably more money to get to those destinations where kids can be exposed to the kind of calibre that others take for granted down here in southern Ontario.

Furthermore, it’s true that we have been tracking, for the past several months, the unfairness in price per litre at the gas pumps, particularly in northwestern Ontario.

Interjection.

Hon. Greg Rickford: The state intervention proposed by the member for Timmins has proved to not work for several provinces and the few states that use that. So he can tell the leader of his party that this is not an effective way to reduce the price per litre of gasoline.

That’s why I’ve called the Competition Bureau in to launch a full investigation into the entire supply chain as it relates to the price of gas in northwestern Ontario. We hope that the Competition Bureau will take this request seriously, and we’ll get some answers.

Monsieur le Président, cette crise linguistique, cette attaque aux droits constitutionnels des Franco-Ontariens et Franco-Ontariennes, il n’y a qu’une solution : le gouvernement doit revenir complètement à l’arrière avec ses décisions. Ma question est très simple : allez-vous écouter les demandes des francophones?

Encore, selon nos propositions, le commissaire va continuer à déposer ses rapports auprès de l’Assemblée législative et conservera son indépendance du gouvernement. Il va conserver également la fonction de formuler ses recommandations visant à améliorer la prestation des services, des recommandations que notre gouvernement va écouter et que nous allons essayer de suivre une fois qu’il fera ses recommandations. On est ici pour écouter—

Le Président (L’hon. Ted Arnott): Merci.

Supplementary?

Les paroles de l’ombudsman sont très claires. Alors, pourquoi continuez-vous à appuyer l’élimination du seul bureau capable d’officier de façon indépendante pour veiller sur les droits des Ontariens et Ontariennes?

L’hon. Caroline Mulroney: Nous n’avons pas éliminé le bureau du commissaire. Nous allons intégrer le bureau du commissaire au sein du Bureau de l’ombudsman, tout en conservant son indépendance et les pouvoirs qu’il a présentement de faire des rapports et de faire des recommandations et de faire des investigations. Tout le travail que fait présentement le commissaire va être fait au sein du Bureau de l’ombudsman.

Le projet de loi que nous avons proposé, s’il est adopté, va s’assurer que les droits linguistiques sont protégés de la même manière. Alors, je demanderais au député de cesser ces faussetés. Nous avons protégé l’indépendance des droits linguistiques en Ontario—

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Members will take their seats. Stop the clock.

The Attorney General will withdraw that unparliamentary remark.

Hon. Caroline Mulroney: Withdraw.

Interjections.

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

Start the clock. Next question.

Environmental protection

Mr. Logan Kanapathi: My question is for the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. For too long, Ontario families were faced with the pressures of rising costs of living as well as skyrocketing energy costs that have hurt our economy and our competitiveness. They are understandably frustrated to see their hard-earned tax dollars being put towards policies and programs that don’t deliver results. With the passing of the cancellation of the Liberal cap-and-trade tax, families are finally able to feel some relief.

Last week, the minister brought forward his Made-in-Ontario Environment Plan. Can the minister tell the people of Ontario how our government’s new plan for the environment will also make life more affordable?

Hon. Rod Phillips: I thank the member from Markham–Thornhill for his question. Mr. Speaker, we now have a balanced plan, a plan that balances the economy and the environment.

To his question: The way that that makes life more affordable for Ontarians is that we will hit our Paris targets, we will hit the objectives our country has set, we will reduce greenhouse gases, we will protect the environment, and we will not charge Ontarians a regressive, job-killing tax. That, we know, is going to save Ontarians $264 per family. We know that the Trudeau carbon tax would be $648 by 2022 per family. That’s why we’ll fight that tax.

Mr. Speaker, our plan also calls for the increased use of ethanol for cleaner fuels in gasoline. That will reduce gasoline prices.

At every moment, we are balancing the economy and the environment. At every part of our plan, we are making sure that we protect our beautiful environment but also protect the financial health of families.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary.

Mr. Logan Kanapathi: Thank you, Minister, for that answer. I know my constituents will be happy to hear that our government has kept our promise to not place an unnecessary, regressive tax on them. They will be pleased to know that they have the ability to do their part without the burden of a carbon tax.

The effect of climate change is concerning, and I can assure you our government takes these concerns very seriously. However, this plan is so much more than just climate action. It is a plan for conservation, a plan that will protect our lakes, rivers, land and air.

Can the minister tell the members of this Legislature what other concerns this plan will tackle to better protect our environment?

Hon. Rod Phillips: Again, thank you to the member. He is quite correct: Our plan is an environment plan. It’s a plan that deals with clean air, clean water, clean land. It’s a plan that does address the vital issue of climate change.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The opposition will come to order.

Hon. Rod Phillips: It will also address vital issues like water security—

Interjection.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Member for Waterloo, come to order.

Hon. Rod Phillips: —sewage in our water, certainly something that I’m sure the NDP cares about. It talks about soil and what we do with excess soil. It talks about our parks and expanding by one million the number of Ontarians and visitors who can enjoy our parks every year. It addresses a range of issues, important environmental issues, including climate change but not exclusively climate change.

Mr. Speaker, these are the issues that Ontarians are worried about: a balanced plan balancing the environment, the economy, making sure we protect our environment and protect families’ pocketbooks.

Court facilities

Ms. Sara Singh: My question is for the Attorney General. A few weeks ago, Regional Senior Justice Peter Daley addressed the courts to bring attention to the abysmal state of Brampton court facilities. Daley stated, “The Ontario government—past and present—is either willfully blind to the erosion of trust caused by its failure to take timely steps to address the facilities crisis in Brampton, or it believes that spending on this courthouse will not result in more votes.”

Since the minister declined an invitation from Mr. Daley to hear his remarks and to tour the courthouse in Brampton, is the minister willing to visit the courthouse to learn first-hand how chronically underfunded facilities in our city are blocking access to justice?

Hon. Caroline Mulroney: I thank the member for the question and for the invitation. I am looking forward to touring the Brampton courthouse.

In February last year, construction commenced on a six-storey addition to the Brampton courthouse. We are taking a fiscally responsible approach to the Brampton addition, where the basement, first and second floors will be completed now to address immediate needs, while the remaining floors will be fit at a future date.

The previous Liberal government, as you know, Mr. Speaker, left us with a $15-billion deficit and $340 billion in debt for us to pay back. We were given a mandate from the people of Ontario to clean up the financial mess, and we are working to do so while finding ways to deliver efficient and effective services to meet the needs of Ontarians.

The ministry will continue to review and respond to the facility needs of the Brampton courthouse as we move forward, and I look forward to touring the courthouse.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary?

Ms. Sara Singh: Thank you to the minister. My colleagues and I from Brampton on both sides of this House are very proud of our fast-growing city, but we all acknowledge that our city needs the services to grow with us. I have personally heard stories about serious cases being stayed or even dismissed because courtrooms are not available or trial dates cannot be secured in a timely manner. The government has failed to address the lack of resources to the courts in Brampton, and we are witnessing significant impacts to our justice system.

What is the minister willing to do to ensure that the people of Brampton and people across the region of Peel have timely access to justice?

Hon. Caroline Mulroney: As I said, we are in the process of constructing a new courthouse in Brampton to address this issue. Access to justice for the people of Brampton and across this province is a priority for our government. While the government has left us with a fiscal mess to clean up, we’re trying to find other approaches to improve access to justice, including investing in technology and finding other ways to make sure that Ontarians can access the courts and the services they need.

Mr. Speaker, this is what we have been doing since we were elected on day one. We will continue to do that, and addressing the facilities needs in this province is part of that plan. As I said, I look forward to spending time in Brampton and touring the courthouse with the member.

Immigrant and refugee services

Mrs. Nina Tangri: My question is to the Honourable Minister of Children, Community and Social Services. Last week, the Parliamentary Budget Officer tabled his report detailing the costing of irregular migration across Canada’s southern border. The PBO estimates that the average cost for each irregular migrant will rise to an average of $16,666 next year. This amounts to a total variable cost of $340 million this year, and is projected to rise to $396 million next year. These figures only account for the costs incurred by the federal government, not the provincial government.

Can the minister please tell us when Ontario expects to be reimbursed for the federal Liberal government’s failed border policies?

Hon. Lisa MacLeod: I am so delighted that we have this question on the floor of the assembly. I only wish it had come from the opposition, who would be as diligent in their work as the member from our party.

What happened last week is, the Parliamentary Budget Officer and the Toronto street needs survey validated what this government has been saying since June 29: that because of the illegal border-crossing in Quebec, there was substantial pressure on our shelter system in the city of Toronto, which is 40%, which is what our number has been, and there’s substantial pressure on our provincial government. The Parliamentary Budget Officer validated our $200-million-and-growing costs in the province of Ontario.

We are simply asking the Minister of Immigration and the Prime Minister to make us whole, as every single Premier in every single province and territory has suggested when they stood side by side with our Premier.

What’s also troubling is the fact that the Parliamentary Budget Officer has suggested this is going to cost taxpayers $1 billion just for the federal government alone.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary.

Mrs. Nina Tangri: Minister, that wasn’t the only discouraging report released last Thursday. The city of Toronto also released findings from their Street Needs Assessment, which surveyed the city’s homelessness back in April. The findings clearly show that the city’s shelter system is struggling to meet the increased demand, and that roughly 40% of occupants identify as refugees or asylum-seekers. I imagine other municipalities across the province are facing the same predicament.

Minister, how are Ontario’s homeless shelters expected to operate under this added strain as the temperature falls?

Hon. Lisa MacLeod: That’s an important question. I recently met with both Mayor Tory and Mayor Watson, in our two largest cities, who have said that their capacity is at 40%.

I want to be perfectly clear: The federal Minister of Immigration may like to call people names when they disagree with him, but the facts don’t lie. In fact, we know, for example, that the Toronto needs survey validated our number and the Parliamentary Budget Officer validated our number.

What I’d like to see from Prime Minister Trudeau is a tweet and a pledge for the $200 million he owes us, so we can ensure that people who are homeless this holiday season get the support they need—

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Once again, I apologize to the minister for having to cut her off in mid-sentence. But when her colleagues rose, the volume of the standing ovation was such that I could not hear her. I had to cut her off.

Next question.

Public transit

Ms. Jessica Bell: This is to the Minister of Transportation. Last week, the government quietly released the terms of reference for their plan to break up Toronto’s subway system and take it away from Torontonians. While this government has been cagey about their plans for our subway, the document clearly lays out an agenda for selling off and privatizing this valuable public asset.

Then on Friday, we learned that the government is demanding that the city of Toronto tell the province how much the TTC is worth. Step 1 for selling off a public asset is to determine how much it’s worth.

Will the minister come clean and tell the public that their plan for Toronto’s subway system has been to break it up and sell it off?

Hon. Jeff Yurek: Thank you very much to the member opposite for that question.

Speaker, we have no intention of breaking up and privatizing and selling off the TTC. What we’re going to do is what should have been done long ago: to create the regional structure this province needs by getting Toronto moving, and the best way to do that is to work with the city of Toronto to look at uploading the system.

Right now, we have a special adviser, appointed at the end of August, Michael Lindsay, who has been working with stakeholders in Toronto to see which is the best way forward. He has come forward with a plan to put forward, which I addressed in my letter to the mayor, John Tory. I’ve spoken to Mayor Tory; he’s all for working together. We’re going to work together with city council.

We’re going to come together with a plan that works not only for Toronto but the GTHA as a whole. If you get that region rolling, you get the province rolling in opening up Ontario for business.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary?

Ms. Jessica Bell: Minister, Toronto built the subway, Toronto taxpayers and transit riders pay for the subway, and Torontonians govern the subway. It’s ours, not yours, to sell.

Mr. Mike Harris: I guess you weren’t listening to the answer.

Ms. Jessica Bell: I was.

Breaking up the subway and selling off parts of it will not help overcrowding or delays, nor will it make fares more affordable. On the contrary, we have seen from other privatized transit lines that fares are set for what’s good for the service provider and not what’s affordable for the rider.

What Torontonians want to see from this government is investment in transit to make their commutes shorter and fares more affordable, not a $1.4-billion cut to transit infrastructure.

Will the minister do the right thing, listen to the experts and riders, and stop this wrong-headed decision to break up Toronto’s subway?

Hon. Jeff Yurek: Thanks for that supplementary from the member opposite. Unfortunately, it was missing quite a bit of actual data that has been coming forth.

I’ll be crystal clear that the TTC will run and operate the subways. We have requested a lot of data from the TTC, the city and Metrolinx to figure out what’s the best way forward. That will be coming forward.

Mr. Speaker, after the upload is completed, we are going to do for Toronto and the regional system—we’re going to grow it. We’re going to build the relief line. We are going to build the Yonge extension. We’re going to build subways out to Etobicoke. We are going to grow the GO Transit system. We are going to get this province going from the GTHA down to downtown Toronto—

Interjections.

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

Once again, I’ll acknowledge that some of the members are very enthusiastic and want to demonstrate their agreement with a member who has the floor, perhaps a minister answering a question. But once I cannot hear the minister’s response because of the volume of the standing ovation, I have to stand up and interrupt the minister in mid-sentence.

Next question.

Economic development

Mrs. Gila Martow: I have a question to the Minister of Finance.

Our government is working hard to make sure the whole world knows that Ontario is now open for business. We are taking action so that our province can once again regain its place as the economic engine of Canada, but in order to do so, it’s important that our government foster international relationships to encourage investment in Ontario.

Last week we were happy to hear that our Minister of Finance visited New York City. Could the minister please explain the purpose of his trip and what he accomplished while he was there?

Hon. Victor Fedeli: Thank you to the member for Thornhill.

Last week, we were thrilled to let the investment community in New York City know that Ontario is open for business. We spoke with the Canadian Association of New York about fostering a culture of innovation in our province and nurturing an attractive investment climate. We also discussed our government’s plan for lower taxes, smarter spending and deficit reduction with international investors, and we made clear that for the first time in 15 years, Ontario’s government wants to work with the business community.

After our trip to New York, everyone across Ontario can be excited for the success that lies ahead, because Ontario is open for business.

Interjections.

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

Start the clock. Supplementary.

Mrs. Gila Martow: Thank you to the minister for his response.

We’re all very excited to hear about the success the minister and his team had in spreading the message that Ontario is open for business. It is only by sharing the hard work everyone in our government is doing that we will be able to attract the investment Ontario needs to get moving again. Indeed, it has been a long time since the business community saw this level of support from Ontario’s government.

Mr. Speaker, our government has taken action to open Ontario to investment, with plans to continue fostering an attractive business environment. Could the minister share the details of our open-for-business message and how the actions of our government have resonated with the investment community?

Hon. Victor Fedeli: Our open-for-business approach was warmly received by the investment community in New York. In fact, they said our message was the best they’ve heard in 15 years.

We were able to share that the cap-and-trade carbon tax is no longer punishing businesses in our province. We promoted our decision to parallel the federal changes to the accelerated capital-cost allowance, which makes business investments more attractive in Ontario, and we once again committed to cutting red tape by 25% by 2022 in order to make doing business in Ontario easier.

Speaker, we are restoring confidence in Ontario as the best place to invest and do business.

Mr. Joel Harden: Today is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, and as I pose this question I want to acknowledge some of our friends from the disability rights community in the Speaker’s gallery. Thank you for being here.

Speaker, today is a day that should be reminding us that our province is on a deadline—

Interjection: Who are you asking?

Mr. Joel Harden: My question is to the Deputy Premier. Pardon me, Speaker.

Hon. Christine Elliott: To the Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary.

Hon. Sylvia Jones: There is no doubt that everyone in Ontario deserves to fully participate in their everyday lives. That includes recreation, our workforce, our families, our schools and our justice system. But we need to do it in a reasonable and measured way. That is what my colleague is doing. That is what he is working on. We will make sure that work gets done, but we need to make sure that the stakeholders are involved and engaged in the process.

Environmental protection

Ms. Jane McKenna: My question is to the Minister of the Environment. Our government is working hard to grow our economy while protecting the environment. While the Prime Minister of Canada imposes a carbon tax on workers and families, our government is restoring hope and affordability for our people.

I’m proud of our Minister of the Environment and I’m proud of his made-in-Ontario solution. We are proud of our plan to ensure clean air and water and conservation of our natural heritage. Can our minister confirm that our plan will help reduce emissions while growing our economy?

Hon. Rod Phillips: Mr. Speaker, before I begin, let me just commend the member from Burlington for her question but also on her promotion as the PA for the Minister of Labour.

As the member referenced, importantly, in getting rid of cap-and-trade, we saved Ontarians $260. That’s money in their pockets. But in addition to that, we have now provided a plan: a plan that balances the economy and the environment, a plan that makes sure that we reduce greenhouse gases in a sensible way that takes advantage of the sacrifices Ontarians have already made to make Ontario the leading reducing province—22% since 2005—and to get us that last 8% to the international targets we’ve agreed to and make sure that we balance the health of the economy and the environment, we meet our objectives and we have a healthy environment as well.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Supplementary?

Ms. Jane McKenna: Minister, thank you for your kind words.

Our made-in-Ontario plan will ensure that polluters are held accountable with stronger enforcements—a plan that is tailored to address Ontario’s unique environmental and economic challenges and a plan that does not include a carbon tax on working families in this province. It’s time we made life affordable. It’s time government is part of the solution, not the problem.

Speaker, can the minister outline the benefits of our made-in-Ontario plan and how it will ensure that we leave the next generation better off?

Hon. Rod Phillips: Our made-in-Ontario climate plan does include a plan for climate change. It does include the Ontario Carbon Trust, which will use the best models internationally to reduce greenhouse gases. It understands the benefits of conservation in the area of natural gas.

It talks about cleaner fuels, but it also talks about other things. It talks about cleaner water. It talks about being clear and transparent, whether it’s about sewage in our water or pollution in our air. It is a broad-based plan that deals with litter and waste. It deals with the Blue Box Program and how we move from 30% diversion to a higher level of diversion. It’s a comprehensive plan. It’s a plan that balances the economy and the environment.

Visitors

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I’m advised that we have a former member visiting us in the House today. The member for Middlesex from the 36th Parliament, Mr. Bruce Smith, is here with us today. Welcome.

The member for King–Vaughan on a point of order.

Mr. Stephen Lecce: On behalf of my colleague the House leader, I’d like to recognize the family of page Kidan Singer, today’s page captain.

Sign-language

interpretation

Mr. Stephen Lecce: If you would permit me, Mr. Speaker, I would like to seek unanimous consent to move a motion without notice regarding sign-language

interpretation for statements by the ministry this afternoon.

I move that sign-language interpreters may be present on the floor—

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): First of all, you’re seeking unanimous consent of the House to allow sign-language interpreters in the House this afternoon for the ministers’ statements. Agreed? Agreed.

Mr. Stephen Lecce: Thank you, Speaker. I move that sign-language interpreters may be present on the floor of the chamber today to interpret statements by the ministry and responses.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The House has agreed to the request that you’re making, and we thank you very much for that.

Motion agreed to.

Visitors

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Point of order, the member for Oakville North–Burlington.

Ms. Effie J. Triantafilopoulos: I also wanted to recognize the family of page Rham Anpalagan, who are here with us today: Alagan and Arun Anpalagan. Thank you for joining us.

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

The House recessed from 1144 to 1300.

Introduction of Visitors

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I’ve been informed that we have a number of guests at Queen’s Park today in recognition of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Some of them were in the Speaker’s gallery this morning, and many will be coming to the Speaker’s gallery this afternoon: Tina Doyle, Mark Wafer, Peggy Chan, Emily Chan, Julia Hanigsberg, Lynn Ziraldo, Julia Dumanian, Gary Malkowski, Joe Dale, Jeannette Campbell, Kevin Collins, Ana Maria Faria, Kat Clarke, Deidre Guy, Zinnia Batliwalla, Peter Athanasopoulos and Hongsun Yoo. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Ms. Suze Morrison: I would like to warmly welcome today to the Legislature Lorin MacDonald, who is a disability rights activist, lawyer, Toronto Centre resident and, most importantly, one of my neighbours. We live in the same building in Regent Park. Welcome to the Legislature.

Hon. Bill Walker: It’s my pleasure to introduce Kevin J. Collins, president and CEO of Easter Seals. I had the delightful time to be able to meet him down in the cafeteria. He’s here, of course, doing his great work.

M me France Gélinas: They are making their way into the east gallery. It’s Jon Fredrick, Sydney Fredrick, Chad Clarke, Randy Davis, Carla Evans, Jason Maclennan, Charles Parcham and Xica Rodriguez. They are here because it is the 30th anniversary of World AIDS Day. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Members’ Statements

Waterfront for All

Mr. Chris Glover: Last week, I was at a meeting in my area for Waterfront for All. Waterfront for All is an umbrella organization that includes 30 groups—business improvement areas, neighbourhood associations. It’s an extensive group, and they cover the area of the Toronto waterfront, all of the way from Etobicoke to Scarborough.

They base their work on the David Crombie commission from a couple of decades ago. David Crombie laid out principles for the revitalization of Toronto’s waterfront. These principles included that it be clean, green, open, accessible, connected and affordable.

Last week, we had a presentation, and it was an ambitious presentation. They were talking about: How do we make Toronto’s waterfront one of the top 10 in the world? We had a presentation on the different waterfronts around the world. They talked about green space, and they gave the example of Chicago. They talked about access to water and the beaches in Rio de Janeiro. They talked about clean water and they talked about Stockholm. Apparently, in Stockholm, you can swim along the waterfront in any place because the water is clean enough. The question is: How do we create this kind of hub and this kind of waterfront in Toronto?

One of the things that is coming up really quickly is Ontario Place. Ontario Place is a crown jewel in Toronto’s waterfront. The process is going to make the outcome, so we’re asking for a public consultation to decide what will happen with Ontario Place.

Les Cruickshank

Mr. Jim McDonell: I rise today to celebrate the life of Les Cruickshank, a family man who was so giving to his community that he inspired us to do our very best.

As a businessman, he transferred his single-person grader contractor’s position into one of the biggest transportation firms in my riding of Stormont–Dundas–South Glengarry, in eastern Ontario and in Ontario as a whole. Les and his staff at Cruickshank Construction lived up to Les’s motto—“doing our level best”—over thousands of kilometres of roads.

A grader operator, Les was drawn to the riding from Paris, Ontario, in 1956, when he mortgaged his future to buy a second-hand grader and helped build the seaway. After its completion, Les stayed in Morrisburg, expanding Cruickshank Construction into earth excavation, paving, aggregate supply, bridge building and highway maintenance.

Les’s devotion to his business and community was duly recognized with awards for Canada’s best-managed company, best employer and safest employer. In 2007, he was inducted into the Ontario Road Builders’ Association hall of fame. The Ontario Ministry of Transportation tapped Cruickshank Construction as Paver of the Year in 2014.

He mirrored his company’s success by giving much back to his community. Among his pursuits were the creation of the Cruickshank mural on the side of the Morrisburg Public School; support for his church, St. James’ Anglican; and co-organizer of Old Home Week. To commemorate Cruickshank’s 50th anniversary, Les built and donated the Cruickshank Amphitheater to the Morrisburg waterfront.

On behalf of my constituents, I offer my condolences to his wife of almost 62 years, Marlene, and their children, Laurie, Steve and Lynn, and their families.

GO Transit

Mr. Wayne Gates: I rise today to talk about some new information that the Ford government released to the public last Friday afternoon at about 4 o’clock, and that is their decision to halt the delivery process of GO train stations from Grimsby to Niagara Falls.

Mr. Speaker, let me give you and the Premier a little history. The fight to bring GO trains to Niagara Falls by 2023 is a fight that united the entire Niagara community. It came from the grassroots and it united every municipality, every level of government—and, we had thought, every party. The PCs were the last ones to the game, they were the last ones to support GO trains coming to Niagara Falls, but they got there.

Now the residents see this government putting up another delay. Before we even talk about what the stations might look like, this government needs to stand up and make one thing perfectly clear. Can the residents of Niagara Falls still expect a GO train in 2023: yes or no?

For years now, we’ve been fighting to bring the train sooner, hoping to get a commitment to get there by 2021. The GO train will provide jobs, boost tourism and allow residents to live in Niagara and work in Hamilton and Toronto. It will take cars off the QEW and be great for the environment. The people of Niagara Falls deserve to know the GO train is coming sooner, not later. I’m asking the government to be clear and to commit publicly that they are honouring the wishes of the residents of Niagara and bringing the GO train directly to Niagara Falls on the same timeline.

Ford Motor Company

Mr. Rudy Cuzzetto: I rise here today to congratulate Ford Motor Co. for 65 years of business in Oakville’s plant. Since the plant first opened in 1953, it has changed the region forever, supporting our local economy and creating thousands of jobs, including my own. As many of you know, before I worked for Premier Ford, I worked for Ford Canada in Oakville for 31 years, most recently as a vehicle auditor.

In total, 4,500 Ontarians work for Ford Motor Co. in Oakville. It has established a very great economy for the manufacturing industry. For every job in Oakville, nine other jobs are a spinoff of that corporation.

I’d like to thank the Oakville

chapter of Professional Engineers Ontario for inviting me to return to the plant recently, this time as an MPP, with my colleagues from Oakville and Oakville North–Burlington. During our tour, we had the opportunity to meet many of my old friends in the plant.

I was thinking of them again a week later when we got the news from GM in Oshawa. Mr. Speaker, having worked in the automotive industry for 31 years, I know how devastating this decision is, not just for GM workers but for their families and all of Oshawa. Our Premier and our government stand with all of you however we can. I’d also like to thank other firms, including Bruce Power, for reaching out to provide new opportunities for skilled workers impacted by this closure. I know that, moving forward, our new government will work to ensure that Ontario is open for business in auto manufacturing.

Once again, congratulations to Ford Canada for 65 years in Oakville.

Services for persons with disabilities

Mrs. Lisa Gretzky: Last week, I tabled my private member’s bill, the Noah and Gregory act. The bill aims to address one of the most pressing issues that people with developmental disabilities and their families face.

Many people may not know, but when young people with developmental disabilities turn 18 they transition from youth supports to adult supports. This is not a simple transition. There are thousands of Ontarians and their families who dread their 18th birthday because, after someone is cut off youth supports, the adult support doesn’t kick in right away. Instead, you are forced to languish on a government wait-list, and it can take years.

My bill tackles this issue head-on. It would extend the delivery of government youth supports to people with developmental disabilities after they turn 18 until the point at which their government adult supports come into effect. It ensures that no one falls into this gap.

I named this bill the Noah and Gregory act after two young men from Windsor–Essex who have developmental disabilities. Both Noah Helou and Gregory Rocheleau have incredible moms who are fierce advocates for them and their needs. It’s thanks to Michelle and Mary Beth that I became so passionate about this issue. Noah, Gregory and thousands of others like them deserve to have full, healthy, happy lives, and that can only happen when their caregivers are fully supported too.

I urge every member of this Legislature to vote for this important bill, which would ensure a better quality of life for those with developmental disabilities and their families.

Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario / Tribunal des droits de la personne de l’Ontario

M me Nathalie Des Rosiers: Today is International Day of Persons with Disabilities. As we celebrate the inclusive nature of our society and note the obstacles that are still there for many people with disabilities, I want to speak about the importance of a strong human rights framework for people with disabilities and for many other people in Ontario.

Individuals with disabilities account for 15% of our population and 40% of people over the age of 65. They need a human rights framework to ensure their equitable access to services. A human rights tribunal was instrumental in ensuring that the rights that they currently enjoy were pronounced.

Le Tribunal des droits de la personne a aussi été important pour plusieurs groupes dans notre société : les femmes, les minorités religieuses et aussi les membres de la communauté juive.

Just as with francophones, “even though” Muslims account for only 4.6% of the population, they are entitled to human rights protection. I am very concerned about what I have seen in the Human Rights Tribunal’s framework, that there are some adjudicators who have lost their jobs. There are fewer and fewer adjudicators.

I urge the government: If you are going to fire human rights adjudicators, please replace them quickly. We cannot afford to have a Human Rights Tribunal that cannot respond to the needs of all Ontarians.

Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent

Mr. Rick Nicholls: I rise today to commend the excellent work being done in my riding of Chatham-Kent–Leamington by the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent.

The life of every child has value. The programs offered by the Children’s Treatment Centre work wonders in helping children from birth to age 18 actualize their value and potential. They help our communities know and realize that a child with special needs gives far more to their family and community than they take.

When a family has a child diagnosed with a disability, it can seem like there is a mountain ahead of them. Without proper information and supports, they can easily fall into despair. This problem is exacerbated when the supports that are out there do not complement each other, turning life into a long to-do list, chasing down disparate and unconnected services.

That is where the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent and similar groups step in. They ensure that all services and supports that a family with a disabled child needs are in one location, locally administered for differing local needs and emphasizing a community experience.

One of the most important things they do is working with school boards to fully integrate students with special needs, training staff and students alike in supporting the transition from earlier supports to a positive and safe learning environment, as mentioned in Bill 48.

Our government for the people champions local organizations like the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent for the work that they do in helping children with special needs integrate successfully into our schools and communities.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The Minister of Government and Consumer Services on a point of order.

Hon. Bill Walker: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to seek unanimous consent to have the interpreter come inside the legislative chamber for this period through ministerial statements and responses.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The minister is seeking unanimous consent of the House to allow a sign-language interpreter to come into the House between now and the end of ministerial statements and responses. Agreed? Agreed.

World AIDS Day

M me France Gélinas: I rise today to recognize the 30th anniversary of World AIDS Day. Thanks to antiretroviral medication, HIV/AIDS has become a chronic disease managed by medication that allows people to live healthy lives.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis, better known as PrEP, is medication that prevents HIV infection. Unfortunately for many, these medications are beyond their means. One in four Ontarians isn’t filling their prescription for medication because they can’t afford it. That’s why the NDP believes in universal pharmacare.

Regardless of their HIV status, people living with HIV still carry a troubling stigma. It’s time for us as legislators to take action against this stigma. That’s why today I’m introducing the following motion:

That, in the opinion of this House, the government should:

—involve people living with HIV in all decisions made across government that relate to the health, well-being and dignity of people living with and affected with HIV;

—encourage people living with HIV to start and stay on treatment; and

—dismantle HIV stigma on the community, clinical and personal levels by adopting the Ontario Accord and endorsing the Undetectable = Untransmittable campaign, the U = U campaign.

It’s time for this Legislature to recognize the ongoing challenges that people living with HIV are still facing today in Ontario in 2018.

Scarborough Health Network

Miss Christina Maria Mitas: Recently, the residents of Scarborough Centre and the surrounding area celebrated the future of health care in Scarborough with the official launch of the Scarborough Health Network. I was honoured to attend this launch along with our Deputy Premier.

The title of the Scarborough Health Network was chosen because it better reflects the incredible work and variety of services offered across Scarborough by the former Scarborough and Rouge Hospital. This hospital holds a very special place in my heart. I, like many Scarborough residents, have used this hospital on many occasions. Every time I step into the building, I’m flooded with memories. I grew up just minutes away from the hospital, and it is where my family has gone for care throughout my life.

Many families in our community are started at this hospital. Whether it is to mend bones, cure an illness or address fears, the incredible staff here have always made all patients feel as comfortable as possible.

Touring the network as an MPP has given me an even greater appreciation of the quality of care of the Scarborough Health Network. Not enough is being said about the recognition they have received for being a centre of excellence in orthopaedic surgery, cancer care and mental health. As an expecting mother, I’m also incredibly impressed with the advanced maternal and neonatal care being provided in their state-of-the-art birthing facilities.

Our government is focused on building a health care system that puts the needs of Ontario patients first, and I look forward to continuing to work with the Scarborough Health Network to maintain and deliver the outcomes that all Ontarians expect and deserve.

J’aimerais parler un peu des programmes que ces écoles offrent à leurs communautés et à leurs élèves, des programmes et activités sportives, comme le basketball et le volleyball, une ligue d’improvisation et d’impro clap, une chorale, un club de robotique, un comité de développement durable, un comité de politiques et beaucoup plus.

Ces écoles aident également leurs communautés de nombreuses façons, comme des collectes de dons pour les familles dans le besoin et des collectes de nourriture pour leurs banques alimentaires locales.

Je voudrais tout particulièrement remercier l’École élémentaire catholique Saint-Jean-Paul II. Avec l’aide de la banque alimentaire de Stittsville, ils adoptent une famille afin de leur remettre un panier de Noël bien garni. Ce sont ces petits actes de gentillesse qui me font réaliser à quel point je suis fière d’être bilingue et francophone.

En terminant, j’aimerais remercier toutes les écoles francophones de Carleton d’avoir fait tout leur possible pour soutenir les élèves, les familles et leur communauté.

Reports by Committees

Standing Committee on Estimates

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Standing order 63(

a) provides that “the Standing Committee on Estimates shall present one report with respect to all of the estimates and supplementary estimates considered pursuant to standing orders 60 and 62 no later than the third Thursday in November of each calendar year.”

Pursuant to standing order 61(b), the estimates 2018-19 of these ministries and offices, not having been selected for consideration, are deemed to be received and concurred in.

Report deemed received.

Motions

House sittings

Hon. Bill Walker: I move that, pursuant to standing order 6(c)(ii), the House shall meet from 6:45 p.m. to midnight on Monday, December 3, 2018, for the purpose of considering government business.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Is it the pleasure of the House that the motion is carried? I heard some noes.

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

All those opposed will please say “nay.”

In my opinion, the ayes have it.

M me France Gélinas: On division.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): On division, the motion is carried.

Motion agreed to.

Statements by the Ministry and Responses

International Day of Persons with Disabilities / Journée internationale des personnes handicapées

Hon. Raymond Sung Joon Cho: Mr. Speaker, with your permission, I’d like to introduce very important people in your gallery: Tina Doyle, University of Toronto; Mark Wafer, Megleen Treadstone; Emily Chan, Holland Bloorview, and her mother, Peggy; Julia Hanigsberg, Holland Bloorview; Lynn Ziraldo, Learning Disabilities Association of York Region; Julia N.

Dumanian, Canadian Hearing Society; Gary Malkowski, Canadian Hearing Society; Joe Dale, Ontario Disability Employment Network; Jeannette Campbell, Ontario Disability Employment Network; Kevin Collins, Easter Seals; Ana Maria Faria, Easter Seals; Kat Clarke, Canadian National Institute for the Blind; Deidre Guy, Inclusive Workplace and Supply Council of Canada; Zinnia Batliwalla, March of Dimes; Peter Athanasopoulos, Spinal Cord Injury Canada; Morgan Austin, Spinal Cord Injury Ontario; and, lastly, Ghulam Rana, IWSCC. Welcome to Queen’s Park. I’m so happy. Thank you very much.

I am honoured to rise today to mark the 26th annual United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Since 1992, countries around the world have celebrated the contributions people with disabilities have made to the world. Supporting this declaration is the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which pledges to “leave no one behind.” The agenda includes goals to ensure every person is treated equally and with dignity. The agenda calls for full and equal participation of people with a disability in all aspects of life and will require creating inclusive environments by, for and with people with disabilities.

Mr. Speaker, while we may look to the UN for guidance, we all must do our

part in Ontario to engage with people with disabilities, to listen, to learn and to act accordingly. Governments, organizations, academic institutions, businesses and the general public must come together to make change. It is a shared responsibility.

In our province, about one in seven people have a disability. That’s almost two million people. Building an inclusive province is not just the right thing to do; it is the smart thing to do.

Mr. Speaker, the facts speak for themselves: 50% of people with disabilities have a post-secondary education and 90% of people with disabilities in the workforce rate above average and better on job performance evaluations than their colleagues. It’s very good news. Yet the unemployment rate for people with disabilities is 16%—double Ontario’s broader unemployment rate—while 30% of a small to medium-sized business in our province struggle to fill job vacancies. It just doesn’t make sense.

Mr. Speaker, employment is a critical piece of someone’s engagement with the world around them. Employment gives people self-confidence and self-respect. Some of us, after all, are born with some form of disability, and others become disabled due to an accident or illness. As a minister, I am fortunate to find inspiration from individuals I meet every day: people like Emily Chan at the Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, advocate David Lepofsky, or the Honourable David Onley.

The other day, I was honoured to welcome Rick Hansen to my ministry. We know, of course, that he travelled around the world in his wheelchair, which took him two years—a long time. Rick told me that his Man in Motion World Tour originated to give those with disabilities hope and to raise funds for spinal cord research.

What I have learned from these exceptional individuals is that disability is not an obstacle to their success. They did not let their disability define them. They instead converted their disability into ability, and are changing the world around them.

To recognize the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I would like to invite all of my MPP colleagues, regardless of political stripe, to join the United Nations campaign and pledge alongside them that we will continue to ensure that no one in Ontario is left behind. We will all be better for it.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Responses?

Mr. Joel Harden: Thank you, Minister, and thank you, friends, again, who are with us in the gallery from the disability rights community. We’re here talking about this, but every single day you are fighting for people who need help. I want to salute your activism and I want to thank you very much for all that you’re doing.

I want to think back home to people who aren’t with us today: people like Sally Thomas, a Paralympian who competed for Canada in Athens and today lives on the Ontario Disability Support Program and the minimal paycheque that offers. On a meagre income, she tours schools in Ottawa, telling young children with disabilities that they have innumerable options, that they have worth. I salute Sally’s work, but to be very honest, it’s not enough. It’s not enough for me to salute the work.

It should be my role as the critic of this government for people with disabilities to encourage them to make the necessary investments so that Sally doesn’t live in poverty, having competed for this country at the highest levels. That is our national, provincial shame, that we legislate poverty in this country for people who have disabilities.

The minister mentioned that we should celebrate the UN’s commitment to make sure that our province is accessible; I agree. But I will also remind the minister and this government that this province is a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and part of our obligation as a province, as a signatory to that convention, is that we never make any decision which degrades the living conditions of people with disabilities.

I will suggest to my friends in government that when people who are living on the Ontario Disability Support Program were expecting an increase of 3% this fall and you only followed through on a 1.5% increase, that was an abrogation of our commitments to the UN convention.

We cannot at one and the same time say that we need to make sure that Ontario is more accessible, that we salute trailblazers like Sally or Rick Hansen—or Linda Niksic, who tomorrow will receive the David Onley award for leadership for people with disabilities; Linda is from Ottawa Centre. We can’t just acknowledge leadership; we have to acknowledge where we’re moving backwards. Changes that have been announced to the Ontario Disability Support Program around eligibility requirements—what experts are telling me is that that will mean fewer people will qualify for incomes that compel them to live in poverty.

We have to do better. We have to acknowledge that people with disabilities are one and a half times more likely to be targets of violence than those without disabilities, and that’s particularly true for Indigenous people with disabilities, for women with disabilities and for racialized people with disabilities. We have to acknowledge that right now in the province of Ontario, we are continuing to build infrastructure that is inaccessible.

I look forward, in this sitting of the House, to putting forward a private member’s bill which, working with the builders of this province, will ask us to make sure that anything new built in this province is built to a universal standard of design, because it’s not enough for us to say that we need to do more.

We also have the AODA committees, all of which have been frozen, all of which are staffed by our talented friends up there in the gallery, waiting to offer their advice to this government. Minister, I invite you—I plead upon you, as a man of integrity—to make sure that those committees get to work and get to work right now, because the deadline of 2025 is coming way too fast, and we need the brightest minds in our province making sure that we’re on track to a fully accessible province.

M me Nathalie Des Rosiers: It’s a great honour for me to stand today on this International Day of Persons with Disabilities. I want to salute everyone who is here today to help us celebrate, and to recognize the obstacles that are still left to conquer.

First, I want to celebrate the great advocacy that has taken place in Ontario for many decades on issues of disability. I want to acknowledge the primary role of many of the people who are here in doing this great advocacy. We are here to celebrate the accomplishments of all people with disabilities in Ontario and elsewhere, and I’m happy that we are here to take notice of the international day and be there together to continue to resolve to eliminate all barriers to participation by 2025.

I am proud to be part of a party who have made Ontario law a world leader in the legal rights for disability, but I think I know, and we all know, how much more there is left to be done so that we can cross the finish line in 2025.

Je voudrais discuter de trois enjeux : tout d’abord, de l’importance de la reconnaissance d’une vision articulée par la communauté des personnes qui vivent avec un handicap. Secondly, I want to re-emphasize the importance of the human rights framework to continue to proceed with a disability-focused agenda and, thirdly, the importance of investment in resources to assist us in reaching our goal.

Number one: The experts on how to achieve equality and inclusiveness in matters of disabled rights are the people with disabilities. I think we said it this morning: We are here and we should be here to listen. We have to move to a model where the person with a disability has choices; it’s not the government that decides how to accommodate him or her, but she has the choice to decide what is the solution that will make her life better. This movement from definition from the outside toward a definition from the perspective of the person who requires and who defines accommodation is where we need to go.

Secondly, I want to re-emphasize a little bit what I said earlier in my statement. The human rights framework has been essential for the hearing impaired, for the people who were having difficulties in transportation. David Lepofsky was one of the ones who used the human rights framework to achieve his goal. We remember that one of the first cases was a person in a wheelchair who could not watch a movie and took it to court and actually changed the way in which we accommodate people in access to movie theatres and to all other public places. So it’s important not to lose track of the human rights framework.

It’s the place where people who cannot be heard finally may have a voice. I urge the government not to undercut this very important part of our system of justice.

Finally, I think I will continue to say that in the great riding of Ottawa–Vanier, every day people who are on ODSP come to my door because they have difficulties in accessing the services that they require. Their medications sometimes are too expensive for what they can afford and they continue to struggle. I think this is a challenge for all of us.

I want to commit today to continue to work with all of us to ensure that we are indeed moving toward our goal in 2025. Our commitment must be to eradicate all barriers—employment, transportation, sports, leisure, health—and to allow choices and to allow participation in all forms of political life and public life for people with disabilities.

Nous ne pouvons pas nous permettre de laisser des talents derrière.

We cannot afford to leave any talents behind us.

Petitions

Injured workers

Mr. Faisal Hassan: I have a petition entitled “Workers’ Comp Is a Right.

“Whereas about 200,000 to 300,000 people in Ontario are injured on the job every year;

“Whereas over a century ago, workers in Ontario who were injured on the job gave up the right to sue their employers, in exchange for a system that would provide them with just compensation;

“Whereas decades of cost-cutting have pushed injured workers into poverty and onto publicly funded social assistance programs, and have gradually curtailed the rights of injured workers;

“Whereas injured workers have the right to quality and timely medical care, compensation for lost wages, and protection from discrimination;

“We, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to change the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act to accomplish the following for injured workers in Ontario:

“Eliminate the practice of ‘deeming’ or ‘determining,’ which bases compensation on phantom jobs that injured workers do not actually have;

“Ensure that the WSIB prioritizes and respects the medical opinions of the health care providers who treat the injured worker directly;

“Prevent compensation from being reduced or denied based on ‘pre-existing conditions’ that never affected the worker’s ability to function prior to the work injury.”

I fully support this petition and I’ll be affixing my signature to it and providing it to page Emily to deliver to the table.

Animal protection

Mr. Toby Barrett: I received a number of petitions last night at a demonstration concerning a dead horse and several horses in need on Cockshutt Road in Waterford. They’re entitled “Animal Protection in Ontario.”

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas all animals in Ontario deserve our protection but are largely going unprotected at this time;

“Whereas the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) is the only agency in Ontario authorized to enforce animal protection laws;

“Whereas the OSPCA has continually cut back services, including the recent decision to stop investigating incidents involving farm animals, including horses, as well as failing to fully investigate poorly run zoos, dogfighting operations, puppy and kitten mills and even documented cases of dogs being tortured in the city of Toronto;

“Whereas the OSPCA has made itself completely unaccountable to the public by eliminating annual general members meetings and board elections as well as eliminating a government representative from their board meetings;

“Whereas the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services provides an annual grant to the OSPCA of $5.75 million of the public’s dollars, for which the OSPCA is to provide province-wide coverage and other services which the OSPCA has failed to deliver;

“We, the undersigned, hereby petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to exercise its authority, through the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services under the current funding transfer payment agreement and the OSPCA Act, requiring that:

“—through the OSPCA Act the government annul the bylaws of the OSPCA;

“—a new bylaw be required that re-establishes annual general members meetings, open board elections and a government representative attending board meetings;

“—the government immediately suspend funding to the OSPCA and conduct a forensic audit of the organization’s use of public funds;

“—the government conduct a service delivery audit of the OSPCA relating to the enforcement of the OSPCA Act;

“—recognize the important job of animal protection by creating a more accountable system that ensures the immediate and long-term protection of the millions of animals who live among us.”

I support the petitions and affix my signature.

Wearing of poppies

Mr. Michael Mantha: I want to thank the township and the community members of Manitouwadge who prepared a resolution to support the petition I prepared with regard to “I Wear My Poppy with Pride and Respect.

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas the poppy is a powerful symbol of remembrance worn by millions the world over with respect and gratitude for those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect peace and freedom for all people;

“Whereas the poppy has been the principal emblem of the Royal Canadian Legion since its inception in 1925;

“Whereas the poppy is an enduring symbol of sacrifice that was initially inspired by the Canadian poet and soldier John McCrae while in the trenches in the Second Battle of Ypres, Belgium, during World War I;

“Whereas the use or reference to the universal poppy symbol for purposes other than remembrance and respect for fallen servicemen and -women and peacekeepers worldwide may be offensive and disrespectful in the minds of their family, friends and comrades;

“We, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to: educate and promote the poppy as a universal symbol of remembrance and sacrifice, and that its heritage and origin from Canadian roots be highlighted. With this positive focus and purpose in mind,

“We further petition LAO to demonstrate leadership in this endeavour by exemplifying respect and pride in the poppy symbol when referred to by members of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario and provincial political parties.”

I wholeheartedly agree with this petition and present it to page Alex to bring down to the Clerks’ table.

Long-term care

Mr. Percy Hatfield: I have a petition signed by John Tofflemire from Leamington and hundreds of others right across Windsor and Essex county.

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas quality care for the 78,000 residents of (LTC) homes is a priority for many Ontario families; and

“Whereas the provincial government does not provide adequate funding to ensure care and staffing levels in LTC homes to keep pace with residents’ increasing acuity and the growing number of residents with complex behaviours; and

“Whereas several Ontario coroner’s inquests into LTC homes deaths have recommended an increase in direct hands-on care for residents and staffing levels and the most reputable studies on this topic recommends 4.1 hours of direct care per day;

“We, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to:

“Amend the LTC Homes Act (2007) for a legislated minimum care standard of four hours per resident per day adjusted for acuity level and case mix.”

I fully agree, Speaker. I’m going to put my name on this and give it to Isabel to bring up to the table.

M me France Gélinas: J’aimerais remercier M me Lyse Lamothe, la présidente de l’ACFO, ainsi que tous ceux qui ont participé au « rally » en fin de semaine à Sudbury.

« À l’Assemblée législative de l’Ontario :

Ils demandent à l’Assemblée législative de l’Ontario qu’il soit résolu :

J’appuie cette pétition, je vais la signer et je vais demander à Zoe de l’amener à la table des greffiers.

Indigenous affairs

Ms. Suze Morrison: I would like to enter a petition. It reads:

“Stop the Cuts to Indigenous Reconciliation.

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas Ontario is situated on the traditional territory of Indigenous peoples, many of whom have been on this land since time immemorial;

“Whereas reconciliation must be at the centre of all government decision-making;

“We, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to:

“—continue reconciliation work in Ontario by implementing the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission;

“—reinstate the Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation;

“—work with First Nations leaders to sign co-operative, government-to-government accords;

“—support TRC education and community development...;

“—support Indigenous communities across the province (e.g. cleaning up Grassy Narrows).”

I fully support this petition. I’ll be affixing my signature to it and providing it to page Shlok to deliver to the Clerks.

Injured workers

Mr. Kevin Yarde: This petition is to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario and is entitled, “Workers’ Comp Is a Right.

“Whereas about 200,000 to 300,000 people in Ontario are injured on the job every year;

“Whereas over a century ago, workers in Ontario who were injured on the job gave up the right to sue their employers, in exchange for a system that would provide them with just compensation;

“Whereas decades of cost-cutting have pushed injured workers into poverty and onto publicly funded social assistance programs, and have gradually curtailed the rights of injured workers;

“Whereas injured workers have the right to quality and timely medical care, compensation for lost wages, and protection from discrimination;

“We, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to change the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act to accomplish the following for injured workers in Ontario:

“Eliminate the practice of ‘deeming’ or ‘determining,’ which bases compensation on phantom jobs that injured workers do not actually have;

“Ensure that the WSIB prioritizes and respects the medical opinions of the health care providers who treat the injured worker directly;

“Prevent compensation from being reduced or denied based on ‘pre-existing conditions’ that never affected the worker’s ability to function prior to the work injury.”

I fully endorse this petition, Madam Speaker, and I will give it to page Aditya.

Climate change

M me Nathalie Des Rosiers: I want to thank Lyn Adamson from ClimateFast for this petition.

“A petition to the Ontario Legislative Assembly to allow the people of Ontario the right to be consulted on dismantling the cap-and-trade program, as is our right under Ontario’s Environmental Bill of Rights:

“Whereas on July 6, 2018, the government of Ontario submitted an application … to dismantle Ontario’s cap-and-trade program without consulting the people of Ontario;

“Whereas a quarter of a century ago, in 1993, Ontario’s Environmental Bill of Rights was passed by the Legislature of Ontario. Under our Environmental Bill of Rights, Ontarians have the right to comment on environmentally significant government proposals;

“Whereas the loss of the cap-and-trade program will take millions from much-needed environmental programs, including cancelling $52 million in funding for TransformTO and $100 million in funding for energy-saving retrofits in schools;

“We, the undersigned, call upon the government of Ontario to open up to consultation the proposed dismantling of Ontario’s cap-and-trade program and all related climate legislation, as is our right under our Environmental Bill of Rights.”

I agree with this petition. I’ll sign it and I’ll give it to page Jack.

Curriculum

Ms. Teresa J. Armstrong: I would like to thank Martha Cowie of London for bringing this petition forward to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.

“Protecting Children: Forward, Not Backward, on Sex Ed.

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas the health and physical education curriculum empowers young people to make informed decisions about relationships and their bodies;

“Whereas gender-based violence, gender inequality, unintended pregnancies, ‘sexting,’ and HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) pose serious risks to the safety and well-being of young people;

“Whereas one in three women and one in six men experience sexual violence in Canada, and a lack of age-appropriate education about sexual health and healthy relationships leaves children and youth vulnerable to exploitation;

“Whereas one in five parents reported their own child being a victim of cyberbullying; and

“Whereas Doug Ford and the Conservative government is dragging Ontario backward, requiring students to learn an outdated sex ed curriculum that excludes information about consent, sexual orientation, gender identity, sexting, cyberbullying and safe and healthy relationships;

“We, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to direct the Ministry of Education to continue the use of the 2015 health and physical education curriculum in schools and move Ontario forward, not backward.”

I fully support this petition, sign it, and give it to page Kidan to deliver.

Diagnostic services

M me France Gélinas: I would like to thank Shelley Young from Coniston in my riding for collecting this petition. It reads as follows:

“Save the Breast Screening and Assessment Service.

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas Premier Doug Ford promised that there would not be cuts to nurses’ positions; and

“Whereas in Sudbury we have already lost 70 nurses” at Health Sciences North, and they are planning to close “part of the Breast Screening and Assessment Service; and

“Whereas cuts to the Sudbury Breast Screening and Assessment Service will result in longer wait times, which is very stressful for women diagnosed with breast cancer; and

“Whereas cuts to the Sudbury Breast Screening and Assessment Service will only take us backwards;”

They petition the Legislative Assembly as follows:

“Provide adequate funding to Health Sciences North to ensure northerners have equitable access to life-saving programs such as the Breast Screening and Assessment Service.”

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

Orders of the Day

Standing orders

The Acting Speaker (Mrs. Lisa Gretzky): Minister of Government and Consumer Services.

Hon. Bill Walker: I move that the definition of “recognized party” in standing order 2 is deleted and the following substituted:

“‘recognized party’” means a party that has a recognized” number “of at least 10 per cent of the total number of seats in the assembly. For the purpose of this standing order, if the party’s percentage of the total number of seats is not a whole number, it shall be rounded to,

“i. the next lowest whole number, in the case of a percentage that ends in less than .5; or

“ii. the next highest whole number, in the case of a percentage that ends in .5 or more.”

Madam Speaker, I would like to correct my record. I said: “‘recognized party’” means a party that has a recognized number.” I should have said: “has a recognized membership of at least 10 per cent of the total number of seats in the assembly.”

The Acting Speaker (Mrs. Lisa Gretzky): Mr. Walker has moved government motion number 25.

Hon. Bill Walker: Speaker, I’ll be sharing this time this afternoon with the members for Etobicoke Centre, Mississauga East–Cooksville and Mississauga–Erin Mills.

I would like to just point out, however, that this will allow us to not have to come in and make standing order changes every time there’s a government change. At the end of the day, the three largest Legislatures in the country—Quebec, the federal government and Ontario—will now have the same standard: 12 seats, 12 seats, 12 seats, and will give certainty to the electorate.

The Acting Speaker (Mrs. Lisa Gretzky): I recognize the member for Etobicoke Centre.

Miss Kinga Surma: Thank you, Madam Speaker. I would like to use my time allocation to do my maiden speech, if that’s all right.

Madam Speaker, thank you for your indulgence. I know that most, if not all, of the members in the House already presented their inaugural speeches, but I chose to wait because I wanted to wait to have my family and my friends, my campaign and my supporters here with me today. I would like to thank all of you for coming. For the team members who couldn’t be here today: Trust me; there will be plenty of opportunities.

I would like to start by saying that I live in the best riding in the province of Ontario.

Interjections.

Miss Kinga Surma: I think I started something here.

I have the honour and the privilege of representing the best people. I have a diverse riding with folks from every part of the world. It is home to the hardest-working, family-oriented and engaged residents in the province. I can prove that to be true, Madam Speaker, because everywhere I canvassed, I would meet folks who grew up in Etobicoke, left to go to school or to work and would often choose to return to start their families right there in Etobicoke, or they refused to even consider living elsewhere.

During the campaign, I had a little fun competition with my residents to find the longest resident of Etobicoke, and I think I did. I met a lovely couple who had lived in Etobicoke in the same house for 65 years. I’m sure I will get a call tomorrow from a resident who will argue that they in fact lived longer, but the point is, Etobicoke is a wonderful place to live, and I hope to be that resident one day.

The greatest time of my life took place from April to June 7, 2018. You may wonder why a 2018 campaign period, with all the chaos of an election, was my greatest time—because I had the best team. I’ve been involved in the Etobicoke community for many years, ever since I moved to Toronto and worked for councillors representing different parts of Etobicoke. But since I won my nomination in November 2016, I spent every single free moment canvassing—close to two years before the election. I was bound and determined to meet and speak to every single resident at least once, if not twice.

It was clear when I was doing all of this that change was upon us. Everywhere I went, I spoke to people about their daily struggles. I could feel that something was wrong. People were telling me they were working harder but they had less and less for their families, and I could sense that people were starting to realize that they were much too forgiving of Kathleen Wynne and the Liberals. They were ready for a new beginning. I knew then that we needed to get back to the basics.

But this was part of a greater movement—a movement that has been in the works for years; a general feeling from the public that in many different places, not just here in Ontario, politicians weren’t serving their people; they weren’t respecting tax dollars; they were more concerned about PR than doing what was right and what was in the best interests of their citizens; and politicians failed to protect good jobs at home, the very foundation of our economy and society.

Madam Speaker, we are not afraid to do what’s right.

During this physically gruelling time of canvassing every day after work, I met the most sincere, hard-working, professional and engaged people. It took me about two years to build a team: a strong riding association, recruit lots of volunteers, encourage donations, create a great youth group and form a wonderful campaign team. I and my growing team engaged hundreds of people who were never involved in politics before. I can say this proudly: We were ready, well before the writ dropped, to fight for the residents of Etobicoke Centre.

I cannot go on without mentioning my core team, who were responsible for putting me in this chair: my campaign managers, Dan Jacobs and Richard Longtin; my CFO, Ennio Longo; my volunteer chair, Adam Cotter; and my office manager and sign chair, Nick Sklar, who’s here with us. These five very special people not only ran the best campaign—and it is in fact true, because Dan Jacobs was nominated at our PC convention just a couple of weeks ago for best campaign manager—but they made sure we had so much fun along the way.

I want to thank all of our wonderful volunteers, all the people who came through the doors to help in the campaign, whether it was to make calls, put up signs, make a donation or even bring a little treat for our team. We could not have done it without you. Our campaign office became our home, not just for the team, but for members of the community—a safe, warm place with great food, cots and even our own ice cream truck. No one could question how hard we worked or how organized we were—but we were so much more than that.

Of course, my family—my mom, Margaret Surma; my dad, Miroslaw Surma; my brother, Konrad and my sister, Carolina—were all a part of that. Like the Premier always praises his family for being a tight-knit group, so are we.

My family has gone through so much, and we always stuck together through all the challenges we faced—from escaping Communism and my parents coming here with three little ones and only $1,500 in their pockets; from not speaking the language; to finding any available work to provide for their family; and the three of us siblings trying to accustom to life in Canada, taking care of one another when we were on our own, whether in school or in the neighbourhood. We were unbreakable, and we stuck together.

If there is one photo that portrays our family for what we are—my favourite photo in our family album—it’s a photo of a completely empty room in a tiny little apartment, our first home, with my little sister who is just over a year old, smiling, standing in a baby crib, with the rest of us around. We came here with nothing, but of course the first and only piece of furniture that we had for weeks was my little sister’s baby crib. Looking at our faces, you’d never notice we didn’t have anything, because we had the most important thing: a loving family.

To my family: I love you so much.

When I started engaging myself in politics, around the time I worked at city hall, when Rob Ford was mayor, about eight years ago, people would often ask me why I wanted to get into the dirty blood sport of politics, oftentimes trying to direct me to a different career path. My father, too, was guilty of this. He wasn’t quite sure why his daughter was obsessed with a career choice that is often thankless, not stable and would face so much scrutiny. My response was always, “If good people don’t do it and they’re discouraged, who will?”

I always believed that the legislative process was the best way to bring forward change. In order to do that, one must be elected and have a voice either at Parliament Hill, Queen’s Park or city hall.

It was at city hall where I first became motivated to run. It wasn’t until I experienced the wasteful spending first-hand that I thought to myself, “We can do better.” And if it was that bad there, I thought, “Wow, what would it be like at the province?” There, I was part of a great team, under the leadership of the great mayor Rob Ford. There were very few of us conservatives in that building, but we were close and we were never afraid to fight for the taxpayer, because Rob Ford never gave up, no matter how harsh the scrutiny.

I always told myself that if I could represent my constituents to one tenth of the degree that Mayor Rob Ford did, I would be okay. He is irreplaceable, and no one will ever be capable of providing the customer service he did to the residents of Toronto. I can tell that you he is my standard, and often when I’m not sure what to do, I ask myself, “What would Rob Ford do?” In my political life, he is my guiding star.

With everything I learned at city hall, the many lessons that my parents taught me throughout my life and my humble beginnings, I truly felt that I understood the day-to-day challenges of the people of Ontario. So I kept going, undeterred—some would say stubborn—to bring forward a strong Conservative government.

Eight years later, that day came. On June 7, under the leadership of Doug Ford and the PC Party of Ontario, we formed a strong majority government.

Today I get to be part of another great team, whose focus is restoring prosperity in Ontario. Today my team and I—Eva Hara, Natasha Kruk, Amanda Ross, and, of course, with all the folks in the Ministry of Transportation—

Interruption.

Miss Kinga Surma: I can’t believe that happened.

Not only are we able to provide the best customer service to make life more affordable for the residents of Etobicoke Centre, but we’re also doing everything we can to improve public transit, something that I am very passionate about.

Do you know what the best

part is? I am 100% confident that our team—my colleagues, our cabinet, our Premier and all of the wonderful staff who are part of this government—will get it done.

I cannot express to you all how exciting it was to sit in this chair for the very first time. I can admit, sometimes when you wait for something for so long and it finally comes, you almost don’t know what to do.

Now, after five or so months learning the process here in the House, bonding with my wonderful seatmates and fighting for the taxpayer, it is truly amazing. Our team is fighting every day, right here from this room.

Together, in the last five months, we’ve accomplished the following:

—we removed the CEO of Hydro One and brought in an entirely new board;

—we created a new consultation process to review all of the curriculum, and so far we’ve had thousands of participants;

—we cancelled the cap-and-trade carbon tax, reducing costs for Ontario families by $1.9 billion;

—we allocated $25 million to help law enforcement to address gang violence in the city;

—we cancelled the basic income research project, saving Ontarians $17 billion; and,

—one of my favourites: We moved the Better Local Government Act to reduce the size and cost of Toronto’s municipal government, fixing council dysfunction that crippled Toronto city hall;

—we reduced the cost of gas by five cents a litre;

—we cancelled the Green Energy Act that led to the disastrous feed-in tariff program and skyrocketing electricity rates for Ontario families;

—we cancelled the outdated and unnecessary Drive Clean program;

—we revisited Bill 148 to reduce red tape and regulations, the job-killing bill; and

—we fought for Ontarians during trade negotiations.

I could go on for a while, but let me say this: We have had an exciting five months.

Our government for the people has set a new standard of governance. Everywhere I go, people are talking about how hard we are working, how we’re keeping all of our promises and whether the Premier will actually give us some time off during the holidays.

What’s next for us? I will repeat what I said on Friday during my annual Christmas party: We are going to keep going at the same rate for the next four years. We are bound and determined to bring prosperity back to Ontario. The people know this, and they have faith in us. The volume of people who are emerging and coming forward to share their ideas with us is immense. People—whether residents, stakeholders, business owners, doctors—are saying that, unlike the previous government, we are listening.

But we have a huge challenge ahead of us. We are not only faced with a $14.5-billion deficit that we promised we would reduce, but with a media that is not on our side and that does not want to see us succeed in resolving many of the problems created by the previous administration. They want to see us fail.

But I stand here today to tell all of you, to tell my family, my friends, my colleagues, my supporters and members opposite that we will not fail. The reason that is is because the people are behind us. They know we have tough choices ahead of us, but they chose us to make those choices.

To end my remarks, I would like to once again thank all of my friends, family and supporters for coming. I would also like to recognize Ted Opitz, who is the Conservative federal candidate in the upcoming election. I would like to thank Premier Doug Ford and his entire family for being so supportive; my riding association for continuing their good work; all of my colleagues for your constant support and encouragement; and last but certainly not least, my wonderful residents for giving me the opportunity to sit in this chair and fight for them every day. I will not disappoint you.

I look forward to spending more time in the riding during the holidays. I want to take this opportunity to wish everyone a merry Christmas, happy holidays and a wonderful new year.

The Acting Speaker (Mrs. Lisa Gretzky): I recognize the member for Mississauga East–Cooksville.

Mr. Kaleed Rasheed: By the way, MPP from Etobicoke Centre: That was an amazing intro speech. Great job. I am really, really proud of you for being part of our team and a colleague.

Madam Speaker, today I stand in the House to speak on the amendments that our government is putting forward to help Ontarians save their hard-earned money, which is motion 25:

“That the definition of ‘recognized party’ in standing order 2 is deleted and the following substituted:

“‘recognized party’ means a party that has a recognized membership of at least 10 per cent”—or 12—“of the total number of seats in the assembly.”

Through this amendment, we are putting Ontarians’ money back where it belongs: in their pockets. Our government for the people is acting to improve both political and legislative accountability in Ontario. Our plan for the people states, in accordance of the amendments we are putting forth, that the reason for these amendments is: “To reduce unnecessary cost while preserving critical functions, the government is proposing amendments to statutes governing the officers of the Legislative Assembly.”

Amendments our government is putting forward will work for the people. We will set a threshold percentage for the number of seats required to achieve recognized party status. Our government has stated that a recognized party will include any party that obtains at least 10% of the seats in the Legislative Assembly.

Let it be noted that official party status should not be confused with being a registered party. A political party can exist even if it has no seats in the House. They may register with Elections Canada or a provincial Chief Electoral Officer as a party. In Ontario, members of unrecognized parties do not get taxpayer funding for staff to help research policies or duties beyond the basics. Being a recognized party in terms of Queen’s Park means that these members are entitled to speaking time during debates and having guaranteed opportunities to ask questions during question period. Recognized parties are given public money to establish their caucus offices.

It was made clear in the past election that Ontarians do not want to subsidize a party that has put us in a deficit. Recognized party status in the Legislative Assembly Act determines what salary members get for performing certain roles, such as House leader, caucus chair or party whip.

Members write the standing orders, and they can rewrite them if necessary. The threshold for party status used to be 12 for members of the provincial Parliament in Ontario before 1999. Under Premier Mike Harris, the threshold was lowered to eight after the 1999 election. That was because the number of members at Queen’s Park shrank from 130 to 103. This was the year the NDP had only nine seats. Our government changed the minimum. We made it so that they would still be a recognized party in the House. Remember, we were the ones who helped the official opposition of today remain an official recognized party, not the Liberals.

I believe the taxpaying constituents of my riding, Mississauga East–Cooksville, should not see their hard-earned tax dollars spent on ineffective politicians, especially when they cannot meet the basic test of a recognized party. Our government believes that tax dollars are best left in the hands of taxpayers, not political parties. This Legislature is to be non-partisan in nature. Not having party status will not prevent you from doing your job—which, I remind you, is to work for the people of Ontario.

Madam Speaker, parties are not created by the House. Instead, they present themselves to the House as parties. Our membership in our respective parties is a matter between ourselves, our fellow caucus colleagues and our voters. We can leave our parties or be asked to leave. We can create new parties, merge parties or change the name of our party. Regardless, not having party status should not prevent you from doing your job.

The tradition in this Legislature has been for the Speakers to accept the party affiliation that the parties and members have reported to them. This amendment put forth is not a jab at any particular person or party; it’s just something that needs to be done. If we look at the number of seats our House has now, then it is reasonable to say that 10%, or 12 seats in this case, should be the minimum for a party to be recognized.

Let me take you back in time, Madam Speaker. In his ruling of September 30, 1963, Speaker Macnaughton pointed out that the status of a party in the House was for the House itself to decide, and the appropriate will to determine the recognition of a political party in the H