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October 21, 2013

40th Parliament, 2nd Session

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Hansard Transcripts

Votes and Proceedings

Orders and Notices

Hansard Transcripts 2013-Oct-21 (PDF)

L073 - Mon 21 Oct 2013 / Lun 21 oct 2013

LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF ONTARIO

ASSEMBLÉE LÉGISLATIVE DE L’ONTARIO

Monday 21 October 2013 Lundi 21 octobre 2013

INTRODUCTION OF VISITORS

ORAL QUESTIONS

JOB CREATION

ONTARIO ECONOMY

POWER PLANTS

POWER PLANTS

RENEWABLE ENERGY

ONTARIO LOTTERY

AND GAMING CORP.

PUBLIC TRANSIT

COLLECTIVE BARGAINING

COLLECTIVE BARGAINING

IMMIGRANTS

ONTARIO COLLEGE OF TRADES

HORSE RACING INDUSTRY

ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

HORSE RACING INDUSTRY

CANCER TREATMENT

SMALL BUSINESS

INTRODUCTION OF VISITORS

MEMBERS’ STATEMENTS

BUTTER TART CONTEST

AGRI-FOOD INDUSTRY

JEAN AUGUSTINE

GIRLS’ LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

ALICE MUNRO

HENRY MERLING

FIONA COWLES

CITY OF BURLINGTON

SENIORS’ AWARDS

NEIL ORFORD

VISITOR

JOHN CLEARY

PETITIONS

MARKDALE HOSPITAL

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

DENTAL CARE

HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT

SENIORS’ DINING PROGRAM

HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT

CHILDREN’S PSYCHIATRIC MEDICATION

POWER PLANTS

AIR-RAIL LINK

ONTARIO COLLEGE OF TRADES

LONG-TERM CARE

HEALTH CARE FUNDING

DOG OWNERSHIP

ROYAL ASSENT /

SANCTION ROYALE

ORDERS OF THE DAY

SUPPORTING SMALL

BUSINESSES ACT, 2013 /

LOI DE 2013 VISANT À SOUTENIR

LES PETITES ENTREPRISES

The House met at 1030.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Good morning. Please join me in prayer.

Prayers.

INTRODUCTION OF VISITORS

Hon. Ted McMeekin: I’m delighted to introduce two former members—cabinet ministers and honourable sirs: the honourable John Snobelen and the honourable Elmer Buchanan. Welcome.

Hon. Brad Duguid: I’m absolutely honoured this morning to introduce to the Legislature Emma Hill. She’s here with her parents, Christine and Mark.

Emma is an ambassador for the Holland Bloorview hospital. She’s an absolute inspiration, an amazing speaker. I have no doubt that she’ll find a seat down here one day if she keeps on the track she’s been on. Mr. Speaker, it’s an honour to introduce her today.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Introduction of guests? The member from Oak Ridges–Markham—Newmarket–Aurora.

Mr. Frank Klees: Thank you, Speaker. I want to extend a special welcome to Kirsten Rudyk, who is a University of Toronto student and the niece of my good friend Bob Yaciuk, who will be joining us today here in the Legislature. She’s interested in the proceedings of this place, and we look forward to having her here.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): I apologize to the member, as I was looking at two other people standing and I wasn’t sure which one I was going to acknowledge. I apologize to the member from Newmarket–Aurora.

Mr. Bas Balkissoon: Mr. Speaker, I’d like to welcome the students of the grade 10 civics class from Francis Libermann Catholic High School in the great riding of Scarborough–Rouge River. They’re here visiting today in the west gallery with their teacher, Stephanie DeProphetis.

Ms. Soo Wong: I’m pleased to welcome—we have some delegates from Kenya, Mr. Speaker, this morning—MP Patrick Wangamati and his entire entourage from Kenya as well. I welcome them. They’ll be coming in shortly.

Hon. Deborah Matthews: I would like to introduce to the world my newest granddaughter. Evelyn Margaret Lang Wallace was born Saturday morning in Peterborough, and she and her mother and father and brother are all doing great.

Ms. Cindy Forster: There are some guests from Port Colborne who are here today: Gene Paggeto, Richard Vittore, Ron Smith and Bob Saracino, who’s here for an Ontario Senior Achievement award today.

Mr. Taras Natyshak: I’m so happy to welcome the first page from Essex county since I’ve been elected, Benjamin Diab, who attends Holy Cross Catholic School. He’s a page here serving from October 24 to November 7, and Evan Tanovich is also serving as a page. I want to welcome them here today.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): As is the tradition coming from the Speaker, we do honour our former members. In the gallery with us today is John Snobelen from Mississauga North in the 36th and Mississauga West in the 37th Parliament. Welcome, John. We’re glad you’re here with us. And Elmer Buchanan from Hastings–Peterborough was in the 35th. Thank you very much for joining us today in the gallery.

ORAL QUESTIONS

JOB CREATION

Mr. Tim Hudak: My question is to the Premier. In light of the gas plant scandal and the $1 billion wasted to save Liberal seats and cancel the Oakville gas plant, we asked the House to sit longer to debate that. You refused to do so. I’m also worried that you’re reneging on our deal.

A month or so ago, you and I sat down in your office. We agreed to clear the decks on legislation that was not really focused on jobs and the economy in large part so that would pave the way for you to put forward your jobs plan. We have yet to see that plan. You have moved from tanning bed legislation now to restaurant menus, but I’ve not seen anything when it comes to jobs or balancing the books in the province.

I wrote you a follow-up letter asking if we could sit down so I could see your plan. Let me ask you, Premier, bottom line, why are you reneging on our deal?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: Well, Mr. Speaker, we did have that conversation and the conversation went like this: I suggested that there were some pieces of legislation that we could move ahead with, that we could find agreement on, so that we could continue to have debates about some other things that maybe we didn’t agree on. One of the things that we don’t agree on is the path forward, because I think what the Leader of the Opposition is suggesting is that we would adopt his plan to slash and cut public services in this province. That is not what we’re going to do.

Instead, what we’re going to do is, we’re going to invest in people, we’re going to invest in infrastructure and we’re going to invest in a business climate that is going to create jobs. For example, we’ve committed $17.6 million to support regions and businesses in this province. That’s leveraged over $133.1 million in investments and it’s created or retained nearly 2,800 jobs. That’s just one piece of the work that we are doing. In fact, the Leader of the Opposition didn’t support that strategy for regional encouragement of jobs, and that is confusing at best.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Thank you. Before we move on, just as a comment, I will not allow shouting people down anymore.

Supplementary?

Mr. Tim Hudak: Premier, maybe there’s some confusion. I thought we had agreed we would clear the decks so you could bring forward your jobs plan. It seems like you want to clear the decks so you can bring legislation around restaurant menus, as opposed to our vision, which is paving the way for more jobs and more opportunity for Ontarians.

Premier, a million people began this week with no job to go to. They’re losing hope in this great province. I worry that your ideology blinds you to the challenges we face or what’s necessary to turn our economy around. You know that if interest rates go up that will put on another $500 million of debt interest, taking away our ability to hire more nurses or do more MRIs.

Clearly, you ran to be Premier for some reason other than to have that office. It has been nine months of endless study, conversations and consultations. Where is the big plan? Where are the ideas? Where is the hope and opportunity? We’ve got that plan. You’re welcome to steal it; just ask. Where’s yours?

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Be seated, please.

Premier?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On top of the regional development strategy, which has created or has helped 2,800 jobs, I would suggest that the Leader of the Opposition talk to some of the folks who work in the Ford plant, because I think he would want to support that $70.9-million investment in the Ford plant that will protect more than 2,800 jobs and allow Ford to take

part in global trade.

He also might want to talk to people in small businesses who understand that the Supporting Small Businesses Act is going to help them with their payroll; it’s going to allow them to hire more people.

Those are actions that we’re taking, along with the Local Food Act, which will encourage and support more jobs in the agri-food sector, and the Waste Reduction Act, which will create jobs.

All of those are part of our strategy to make investments in people and infrastructure and in a business climate that will allow the private sector to create jobs. That is happening, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Supplementary?

Mr. Tim Hudak: Premier, we’ve put a plan on the table to create over 300,000 good jobs in manufacturing, to get energy prices under control, to lower taxes, to change the attitude of government and get out of the way of business, to stop always be standing in the way of job creation and get behind—so they’ll invest and create jobs again. All I hear from you is more warmed-over old NDP ideas that, quite frankly, got us into a deep ditch back in the 1990s.

Let me ask you this, at least. It has been a month since we agreed to clear the decks. You’ve brought forward no plan. I wrote you almost three weeks ago. You’ve not responded to my letter to meet to discuss your plan as of yet. I’m worried that you have no plan. So will you stand up in the House today—I know that the economic statement is coming shortly. Will that be a game changer for the province? Will that be a moment of truth? Will we finally see the Kathleen wision—vision—Kathleen Wynne vision? That was a tough one. I’ve got to rehearse these more often. I’ve got to try that one more often.

Will we actually see what your plan is? Because you only have two moments: a budget and the economic statement every year. You wasted the budget. So please, it’s got to be the economic statement.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Stop the clock. Be seated, please.

I suspect there was a reason why you fumbled over it—he knows that we’re not supposed to use proper names in here; I think that was the problem. You stumbled over it. So I’m going to remind all members: Please use either title or riding when referring in the House. Thank you.

Premier.

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am not offended by the Leader of the Opposition calling me by my first name.

What our fall economic statement will not do is adopt the Conservatives’ agenda, which will fire 10,000 education workers, fire 2,000 health care workers, drive wages down with harmful right-to-work legislation—

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): The member from Chatham–Kent–Essex, come to order. The member from Northumberland—no, I was thinking of whether I should or shouldn’t, but I will—Northumberland–Quinte West.

Premier.

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: Mr. Speaker, we will not adopt that plan, which we believe would undermine the progress of the province, would not provide for a future of well-educated workers, would not create an environment where investment wants to come to this province. That is what is happening now. Jobs are being created. We are investing in a business climate that’s innovative and dynamic.

ONTARIO ECONOMY

Mr. Victor Fedeli: Speaker, my question this morning is for the finance minister. Minister, our party has cleared the decks so you can present your jobs plan to the Legislature. We’re still waiting to see it. You’ve been in office for nine months, held 100 conversations and created 32 panels, and yet there’s still no plan to create jobs and kick-start our economy.

But your jobs plan isn’t the only thing that’s AWOL, Minister. The Fiscal Transparency and Accountability Act, which your government passed, states, “Within two years after each provincial election, the minister shall release a long-range assessment of Ontario’s fiscal environment.” Minister, you’re two weeks late. When will you be releasing this assessment that you were legally required to release two weeks ago?

Hon. Charles Sousa: Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the question. I appreciate the fact that the member opposite is actually interested in knowing how to increase and promote economic growth in our great province.

He recognizes that we have achieved results. He knows full well that we’ve had a plan that’s working. We have 180% return of those jobs that suffered during the recession. We are the top jurisdiction around the world, exceeding our targets. We are the lowest-cost government in all of Canada, at all orders of government. We have the most competitive tax regime to stimulate investment, and it is working.

We have a fall economic statement that’s coming out shortly. We’ve produced first-quarter results that achieve our opportunities and that show the success we’ve had to date. Public accounts, audited public accounts, show that we exceed our targets.

We are coming forward with a long-term plan beyond the election-cycle politics that the opposition want to play. We’re not going there, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Supplementary?

Mr. Victor Fedeli: Minister, that assessment isn’t optional. You’re legislated to do this. The act spells out the specific areas the assessment is to report on. Your predecessors actually did meet this requirement, but apparently you can’t. You’re running afoul of your own government’s law. But then again, we’ve seen from the deleted gas plant emails that breaking the law seems to be nothing new over on this side.

Maybe you’re working hard behind the scenes to get creative with the numbers—like you did on the gas plants—to hide your failed wage freeze, which we exposed last week.

Minister, in nine months, you’ve put forward no plan to create jobs, no plan to stimulate the economy and no plan to balance the budget. Do you have any plan at all to present your long-term fiscal assessment?

Hon. Charles Sousa: Mr. Speaker, not only do we have a plan, we have results that are working according to that plan.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Order, please.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Order.

Minister?

Hon. Charles Sousa: The plan has been outlined a number of times—which the opposition choose not to read. The upcoming fall economic statement will highlight some of those issues.

What the opposition must recognize is that what they talk about is actually a destructive plan. We will not take extreme views on across-the-board cuts that will harm the sensitive recovery of our province.

We have taken measures of austerity to a point that’s necessary, but now we must stimulate economic growth. We will continue to invest in people, we’re going to continue to invest in infrastructure, and we’re going to continue to ensure our economy grows by—

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Thank you. Final supplementary.

Mr. Victor Fedeli: Minister, let’s recap the last nine months. There’s no jobs plan, no plan to stimulate economic growth, no plan to balance the budget and no long-term assessment. It’s clear that you’re not up to the job on this file, Minister. It only stands to reason that Ontarians can expect another whole lot of nothing when you present your fall economic statement.

You’ve shown, through the gas plants scandal, that your government has a lot of trouble with numbers. The least you can do is use this opportunity to finally lay out a plan to get the more than 500,000 men and women who woke up this morning without a job back to work.

Minister, it’s obvious your fall economic statement won’t have a real jobs plan. Will you take our plan, our 14 white papers, and use our ideas to put Ontario back to work?

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Be seated, please. Thank you.

Minister?

Hon. Charles Sousa: Mr. Speaker, if we recall their plan, their plan was to hide a huge deficit. Their plan was to sell assets at fire sale—their plan was to give it away. Their plan left a legacy of an energy problem that we’re still paying for today.

We have taken control. We have invested in our province. We’re investing in our people. We’re investing in infrastructure, and we’re creating a climate of economic growth and business development with innovation. We’re going to continue on that positive plan. We are not going to fall prey to what they’re proposing.

POWER PLANTS

Ms. Andrea Horwath: My question is for the Premier. News reports indicate that the Premier is creating yet another panel. This time, the conversation will focus on so-called open government.

If the Premier is interested in openness, Speaker, will she commit today to returning to the justice committee to explain her role in the decision that handed over $1 billion to a private power company?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: I haven’t received an invitation from the committee. If the member has a question, I’d be happy to answer that question. I just want to say that I need to know what the new information is that the member is seeking, because I’ve accepted responsibility as a member of the cabinet that made the decision. I’ve apologized a number of times. I’ve explained my role at every step of the process. I’ve explained every interaction that I’ve had. I’ve explained my understanding of the cost estimates that were provided by officials. I appeared at the committee on April 30.

I’ve answered 207 questions in the House. I’ve responded to the AG report; I responded the day that it was tabled.

I’ve done all of that, Mr. Speaker. I haven’t received an invitation. As I say, I’d be happy to answer a question if the member has a specific question.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Supplementary?

Ms. Andrea Horwath: Speaker, people learned that Liberal waste is costing them $1.1 billion, and the auditor tied that cost to decisions signed off on by this Premier. The Premier wants to have a conversation about open government, but people want some answers about the sky-high price of electricity that they’re paying in this province.

Will the Premier come to the justice committee and explain why she was signing a document that was helping private power companies guarantee their profits, and putting families and businesses on the hook?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: I have explained my role in that process, Mr. Speaker. I have explained it in this House and I have explained it at committee. As I say, I have, a number of times, explained my whole interaction and my whole role in the process. The reality is that when I came into this office, I said that we were going to open up the process, and that is exactly what we did.

In fact, my commitment to open government is an expression of a belief that I have always held and that has been manifested by the fact that I have attended the committee; I have opened up the process. We’ve broadened the scope of the committee and we’ve provided thousands of documents in answer to the questions that have been asked by committee.

The questions that the leader of the third party is asking are questions that have been asked over and over and over again, and they have been answered over and over and over again. If there is a new question, if there is new information that’s being sought, I would like to hear that.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Final supplementary.

Ms. Andrea Horwath: The Premier has claimed that she doesn’t want to have this kind of thing happen again in Ontario, and I can tell her, neither do Ontarians. They’re tired of watching their bills go up and up and up, and they want to know why.

People want to understand why the Premier was signing off on decisions that the auditor said clearly favoured private power companies. Will the Premier be coming to the committee to explain why she did that?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: Again, Mr. Speaker, I have answered that question. I’ve talked about my role in the cabinet walk-around that happened and I have taken responsibility for being part of a government that was in a process and was trying to avoid litigation. We’ve talked—

Interjection.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): I’m probably going to ask the member from Hamilton East–Stoney Creek the same question I would ask him if he was in his seat, and that is to come to order, please. Thank you.

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: Mr. Speaker, I spoke the week before last about the advice that we were given—that officials advised us that waiting to relocate the plant could have been more expensive and renegotiating was more prudent than ripping up the agreement. So we were engaged in that process.

But the point is, I have taken responsibility, as a member of cabinet, for that decision. I articulated my role and—

Interjection: Resign.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): That will get you thrown out. If you want to start doing that, I’ll start throwing.

Finish, please: 10 seconds.

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: Mr. Speaker, just to say that we have provided 175,000 pages of documents and answers to all of the questions that have been asked.

POWER PLANTS

Ms. Andrea Horwath: My next question is for the Premier. The Premier loves conversation, and she has the panels to prove it. Now there are 30 groups looking at everything from new tolls and taxes to undoing the damage to the horse racing industry.

Now the Premier is saying she wants a panel on openness. Will she show commitment to openness, Speaker, by coming to the justice committee and explaining why she signed off on a decision that clearly favoured a private power company?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: Apart from the tone of the question, I just want to say that I think it’s very, very important that government pay attention to people’s opinions, that we engage with people, that we get feedback from people outside of government. That is how I have operated as a politician; that is how I will operate as a Premier.

Whether the leader of the third party thinks it’s important or not to have people with expertise give us advice, we do believe it’s important. We think that it’s a very good thing to have people who understand a particular sector, or a particular issue, as, for an example, the open government process. I think it’s a good thing for them to give us advice on engagement with the public, and I look forward to that process, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Supplementary?

Ms. Andrea Horwath: Well, Speaker, maybe the Premier and the Liberals should have been listening to the council in Oakville back in March 2009, when they passed a resolution trying to block the gas plant from being built in the first place.

Ontario families are looking for some real answers about their sky-high hydro bills, not conversation after conversation after conversation. Ontario’s Auditor General specifically raised a decision that the Premier was part of, in her report on the Oakville gas plant. This government has created such a mess in energy planning that the Premier was signing documents that gave private power companies huge advantages instead of protecting families who pay the bills.

Will the Premier be returning to the justice committee to explain why she was a part of a decision that gave private power companies the upper hand, or is her new openness panel just another smokescreen?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: I just want to say to the leader of the third party that I agree with her. I have said many, many times that had we paid better attention, had we had a better upfront process in the location of those gas plants, then we would not have made the mistakes that were made. I’ve said that quite openly, that having a better community process is part of what needed to happen and needs to happen going forward. That’s why we’re putting a new process in place.

As for the justice committee, I haven’t received an invitation, but I have been to the justice committee. I have answered many, many questions in the House and at committee. I have explained my role. If there is new information that’s sought, I would be happy to answer that question, but I have been there, and I have not yet received another invitation.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Final supplementary.

Ms. Andrea Horwath: Speaker, fixing a community process is never going to get rid of the Liberals’ penchant for their own self-interests ahead of the interests of Ontarians. That’s what Liberals do all the time.

Last week, Ontarians found out that they had seen their electricity bills—were going to see their electricity bills, rather—keep growing faster than the rate of inflation in this province. It’s getting harder for them to pay the bills already, and they deserve the answers, Speaker. They deserve to know why the Premier gave up legal protections for ratepayers and gave the upper hand to the private power company.

Will the Premier come to the gas plants committee and explain her decision to protect the interests of private power companies instead of the interests of people and businesses who are stuck paying the highest hydro bills in this country?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: As I have said, I have been to the committee, and I have answered many, many questions, and I have not received an invitation from the committee at this point.

But, Mr. Speaker, when we came into office, the energy system in this province was in disarray. It had been left in disarray. There were huge investments needed in distribution. The capacity, and the generation capacity, was not what it needed to be.

We have made huge improvements in the—

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Stop the clock, please.

The member from Glengarry–Prescott–Russell will receive the same advice, or the question, that I asked the member from Hamilton East–Stoney Creek. If you were in your seat, I’d tell you the same thing I’m going to tell you now: Come to order. She’s asking; she’s answering.

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: So, Mr. Speaker, the investments that we have made in the energy system have made it more stable, and it’s work that absolutely had to be done. As far as our commitment to green energy—that we are leaders in terms of the North American continent and making sure that we have clean, renewable energy going forward, Mr. Speaker. I’m proud of our record.

I have said clearly that there were mistakes that were made, and, contrary to what the leader of the third party is saying, I do believe that a better community process actually produces a better outcome. That’s why we’re putting one in place.

RENEWABLE ENERGY

Ms. Lisa M. Thompson: My question is for the Premier. Premier, you sat at the cabinet table and signed the document which authorized your Liberal government to waste over $1 billion of taxpayer money to cancel two power plants. Over the past eight months, you have stated that your government reacted out of respect for the local communities’ opposition to these power plants. If you haven’t noticed, 73 municipalities in Ontario have declared themselves unwilling hosts, but despite your promises, wind projects continue to be approved for communities that do not want them. Since when did a person’s postal code determine whether they receive respect or contempt from your government?

Premier, about 200 tractors—excuse me; I was out in the rain with these folks on the weekend. About 200 tractors, trucks and cars made their way down a 30-kilometre stretch of Highway 402 to get your attention. Premier, will you recognize that—

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Thank you.

Premier?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: I think the member opposite absolutely makes the point that I was making in response to the leader of the third party, which is that it is very important to have a good community process. The process that the Minister of Energy is putting in place, which identifies willing hosts and gives communities more input into the process upfront—that is exactly what needs to happen. I would suggest that the work we did on green energy has been very, very positive, and there is a lot to learn from the process that perhaps didn’t take communities—

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): If it’s a test, I’ll pass it.

Supplementary?

Ms. Lisa M. Thompson: Back to the Premier. You know what they say: Those who can, do; those who can’t, consult and have conversations. Enough is enough. Your government, with the support of the NDP, has lost 300,000 manufacturing jobs because of your botched green energy policies, and you have the audacity to announce another rate hike as of November 1.

Last Friday, I have to tell you, Premier, my constituency assistant helped a family of seven. Their electricity had been cut off because they could not afford to pay their hydro bill. The mother called my office frantic because she had five small children and we had the threat of snow this past weekend in my riding. Thankfully, on a Friday afternoon, we were able to arrange to get the hydro back on, but for how long?

Premier, where are you taking this province? Truthfully, I am dreading this winter in fear of all the people who cannot afford their hydro bills. Is this what you envisioned for Ontario when you took over this role? Are we to expect families not to receive the basic—

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Thank you.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Stop the clock, please.

Be seated, please. Be seated, please. Thank you.

Mr. Paul Miller: Who deregulated hydro?

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Let’s not get wound up before I even get a chance to have her stand.

Premier?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: Let me just say that we have rebuilt over 80% of our electricity system because—

Interjection.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): The member from Northumberland–Quinte West is warned.

Carry on.

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: That rebuild of 80% of the electricity system had to happen because when we came into office it was not reliable, it had been neglected and that work needed to be done. On top of that, our plan for green energy has eliminated dirty coal, it has created more than 31,000 jobs—

Interjection.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): The member from Sarnia–Lambton is warned.

Carry on.

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: And it has generated $24 billion in investments.

I absolutely take to heart—and I’m glad that the member opposite was able to work with her constituent to make sure that her constituent had power. But that power is available because we’ve reworked the energy system and we have capacity in order to provide that electricity.

ONTARIO LOTTERY

AND GAMING CORP.

Mr. Michael Prue: My question is for the Premier. This government dealt a death blow to the horse racing industry under the pretext of OLG modernization. OLG modernization is simply a Liberal code for more casinos, but Ontarians have been very clear that they don’t want casinos in their communities. Last week, the city of Vaughan voted to reject being a host site for a casino, and now the doors are quickly shutting to the possibility of a casino anywhere in the GTA.

Will the Premier listen to the communities and the people of Ontario and admit that OLG modernization is a giant, total, abysmal failure?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: Minister of Finance.

Hon. Charles Sousa: I appreciate the question, and I appreciate the premise of the question, recognizing some of the concerns that exist going forward with regard to the transformation of the OLG and our gaming. We recognize how important it is to be socially responsible. We recognize also the great degree of dividend and support that the OLG provides for schools and hospitals and investments in our communities. We also appreciate and respect municipal decisions, and that’s what we have done all along.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Supplementary?

Mr. Michael Prue: Back to the Premier: The Slots at Racetracks Program brought in $1.1 billion a year in government revenue. By cancelling the SARP, this government has destroyed an entire industry in southern and rural Ontario for the profit of big casino conglomerates. But Ontarians don’t want casinos in their communities; they want racetracks.

Isn’t it time to admit you made a mistake? Reinstate the Slots at Racetracks Program until you figure out a fair and transparent plan for horse racing and casinos in Ontario.

Hon. Charles Sousa: Minister of Agriculture and Food.

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: In fact, Mr. Speaker, the plan that we have put in place is an accountable and transparent plan. We owe a lot to former members John Snobelen, Elmer Buchanan and John Wilkinson. They have worked with the industry to put in place a plan that will allow for a sustainable industry.

The SARP was neither transparent, nor was it accountable, so it would be irresponsible for us to move back there. But what we want is a sustainable industry across the province. All of the tracks in the province, whether they’re part of the core or whether they’re part of the grassroots, will have an opportunity to present a business plan, work with OLG and have a sustainable future. That was our goal, and that’s what we have put in place.

PUBLIC TRANSIT

Mr. John Fraser: My question is for the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. Speaker, the Friday before Thanksgiving, I had the opportunity to join Mayor Watson, members of council and a number of colleagues from Queen’s Park at an event to mark the start of boring the tunnel for Ottawa’s light rail project. It was truly an exciting day for Ottawa.

Mr. Speaker, even with this exciting news in Ottawa, there is a lot of interest in the transit debate that’s happening here in Toronto. In fact, many Ontarians want to know how the government is helping to build the future of transportation infrastructure in the province’s largest city.

Having said that, residents of Ottawa South want to know how this government is going to help Ottawa move forward. Recently, Mayor Watson called for a massive transit plan to get cars off the street and citizens to the places they need to be in an efficient manner. To the minister: What have we done to get Ottawa moving?

Hon. Glen R. Murray: We are investing, and have invested since we’ve come to government, $1.8 billion in the city of Ottawa. I believe that is an unprecedented investment in that community, Mr. Speaker, and I think that’s due to the very hard work of a number of Liberal MPPs from that constituency who are delivering for the community.

The Confederation Line, which the member from Ottawa South has been a big champion of, is moving forward. It’s a very significant contribution. It is part of over $1 billion of investment in rapid transit alone, and $600 million just to the bus rapid transit system.

Mr. Speaker, we often get asked what the jobs policy is. This investment is creating 20,000 person-years of work in Ottawa and creating the foundation for major private sector job creation.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Supplementary?

Mr. John Fraser: It’s very good news to hear that transportation funding is a priority and that projects are under way in Ottawa. Residents of Ottawa South will be glad to know that this government is helping municipalities like Ottawa to build the transit we need. There are many small to mid-sized cities that need a steady flow of funding to finance transit infrastructure. I know that we are committed to assisting all regions and all cities to get every single Ontarian to work and home as fast as possible.

Mr. Speaker, it is important to my constituents and to all Ontarians in small to mid-sized cities to know that they can count on funding to support their demands for their public transportation system. Can the minister tell us what we’re going to do as a government to ensure that there is steady funding to help municipalities outside the GTHA?

Hon. Glen R. Murray: Mr. Speaker, if you understand the importance of infrastructure, you just have to look out the windows of the Legislature. The biggest commercial boom in construction is going on in the history of this city. It is estimated that half of all the construction cranes in North America are at work right now in the GTHA alone. That is a remarkable record.

It extends beyond Toronto, and I mentioned the huge investments in Ottawa. A small community like Ignace in northwestern Ontario has clean water because this government rebuilt its water treatment plant. In a community as small as Burpee Mills township, there are $178,000 going to build a critical road in that community that will help revitalize that community. In Cobalt, almost $2 million is being invested right now in basic road infrastructure, Mr. Speaker. We are building jobs and opportunities across Ontario.

COLLECTIVE BARGAINING

Mr. Monte McNaughton: My question this morning is for the Premier. As you know, Premier, my Bill 74 takes a firm stand in support of Ontario workers and in support of an Ontario company. Premier, on September 9, you spoke in support, saying, “It’s about a level playing field, and it’s a very good example of the kind of thing where we find agreement”—

Interjection.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Attorney General.

Mr. Monte McNaughton: —“and we should be able to move forward.” Premier, you were all-in. But on October 2, you stated, “I will not be supporting it, assuming that the decision is not appealed. So that’s the decision.”

Premier, you have both flipped and flopped. But the time for clarity is now, and thousands of workers at EllisDon are eager for your word. With the decision being officially appealed, Premier, will you resume your support of my important bill, or will you renege on your word in favour of foreign corporations over Ontario workers?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: As the member opposite knows, the Divisional Court has made a ruling that quashed the decision of the OLRB, Mr. Speaker, so the company can continue to operate as it did prior to the OLRB case. From my perspective, and I have said this because circumstances have changed, the urgency that was created by that labour board decision has been removed by the Divisional Court decision.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Supplementary?

Mr. Monte McNaughton: Well, Premier, just to reiterate your quote, you said, “I will not be supporting it, assuming that the decision is not appealed.” That was your word, Premier.

Your lack of leadership and lack of decisiveness have risked an Ontario success story and thousands of Ontario construction jobs. My Bill 74 will maintain the status quo for EllisDon and will settle this issue once and for all. Premier, you stated that you would not be supporting my bill—

Interjection.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): The Attorney General will come to order—second time.

Mr. Monte McNaughton: —assuming it was not appealed. However, despite the appeal, you have chosen to stand with foreign construction companies instead of Ontario workers. Based on your past statements, it is obvious that your government expects the Divisional Court ruling to hold. Premier, when did you tell the sheet metal workers and the electrical workers that you expect their appeal to fail, and why do you refuse to stand up for EllisDon and their thousands of employees all across Ontario?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: I think the member opposite knows full well that there has been no appeal granted at this point. There’s a leave to appeal before the court. I believe that the circumstances have changed. The Divisional Court has quashed the ruling by the OLRB, Mr. Speaker. Because of that, I believe that the urgency that was in place because of that OLRB decision is no longer in place.

COLLECTIVE BARGAINING

Mr. Taras Natyshak: My question is to the Premier. Speaker, last spring, well-connected insiders hired by EllisDon had legislation crafted so they could escape a contract that they had with their employees. The Conservatives proposed it but the Liberals enthusiastically supported it, and the Premier agreed to speed it through this very House. Now she’s scrambling to distance herself from the very bill that she championed.

Can the Premier tell us what today’s position is on the EllisDon bill?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: I think I just answered this question, Mr. Speaker, but I’m now going to answer it again. As the member opposite knows, the Divisional Court quashed the ruling of the labour relations board. The fact that the company can now continue to operate as it did before the OLRB ruling, I believe, changed the circumstances. We believe that the bill is no longer needed and that the urgency that was in place because of the OLRB decision is no longer there.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Supplementary?

Mr. Taras Natyshak: The Premier’s position on this has more loops and turns than a roller coaster. What’s more and more clear is that the Premier will say and do anything to help the Liberal Party.

First she championed the bill, passed it unanimously and put it on the fast track. Then she tried to convince the unions to abandon their right to appeal. Then, when they called her bluff, she zigzagged again, and now she claims she’s going to oppose it. What assurances do people have that the Premier won’t flip-flop yet again when the lobbyists from EllisDon come knocking?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: I have always believed that if one takes a position under a certain set of circumstances and then those circumstances change, the intelligent response is to reassess the position. If the circumstances don’t change, then you don’t need to reassess the position.

The circumstances changed. The urgency that was in place is no longer in place, and so I believe that the piece of legislation is no longer required.

IMMIGRANTS

Mr. Vic Dhillon: My question is for the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration. The Ontario provincial nominee program, known as the PNP, is a valuable immigrant selection program that allows Ontario to nominate economic immigrants for permanent residency.

Interjection.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): The member from Renfrew, that will do.

Mr. John Yakabuski: “Circumstances change.” No, really. “Circumstances change.”

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Really, that will do. If I have to get louder just because the member refuses to hear what I’m asking, then I will get specific. I’ve asked him to refrain.

Mr. John Yakabuski: A jellyfish response.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Is the member from Renfrew choosing to ignore me?

Mr. John Yakabuski: No.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Good.

Please finish.

Mr. Vic Dhillon: I just recently learned that the federal government has capped Ontario’s yearly nomination at only 1,300 nominees. I was also surprised to learn that no new PNP applications have been accepted since August.

Mr. Speaker, through you to the minister: How is our government ensuring that we select the best and brightest economic immigrants to fill the skilled labour gaps that exist in Ontario?

Hon. Michael Coteau: The member is correct. The federal government has capped our provincial nominee program here in our province at 1,300. The federal government can do better. Ontario deserves more.

Ontario has little say from the federal government on economic immigrants who are selected to enter our province. Of the 99,000 people who immigrated to Ontario in 2012, we had a selection of less than 1.5%, and that’s not great.

If you consider what’s happening in Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan: Last year the Alberta government had 11% selection, immigrant selection in Manitoba was 28% and in Saskatchewan, it was 34%.

Ontario’s Immigration Strategy spells out the need for Ontario to have greater say in selecting skilled immigrants here in our province. By selecting highly skilled immigrants to fill positions in our labour force, Ontario will be able to grow its workforce to create more jobs in Ontario.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Supplementary?

Mr. Vic Dhillon: Many Ontarians do not know that our province is not being given its fair share of PNP spaces. I understand that the minister has written to his federal counterpart to request additional PNP spots. Many employers and investors are looking to come to Ontario and will be glad that our government is advocating for more selections through the PNP program.

Mr. Speaker, through you to the minister: Could you please address the misconception that bringing in skilled immigrants to Ontario negatively contributes to our economy and to more unemployed Ontarians?

Hon. Michael Coteau: I’d like to thank the member from Brampton West for his great question.

Our government is committed to economic growth, and believes that an educated, skilled and diverse workforce in Ontario is one of our greatest strengths. A diverse economy in our province is good for Ontario and great for this country. It’s about bringing the best and brightest here to our province.

Since 2010, Ontario has nominated more than 2,000 international PhD and master’s students for permanent residency through our provincial nominee program; 25 Ontario hospitals and health centres have used this program to retain specialists, doctors and nurses to better provide health services here in our province; and half of Ontario’s universities have used the program to retain world-class professors and deliver better education here in the province.

Mr. Speaker, our government believes that the time has come for Ontario to redefine its shared immigration relationship with Ottawa so we can best position this province for success.

ONTARIO COLLEGE OF TRADES

Mr. Garfield Dunlop: My question is for the Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities. This weekend and this month, we’re celebrating Small Business Week in Ontario. Small businesses, the heart and soul of job creation, are struggling to make ends meet here in Premier Wynne’s Ontario. You’ve already taxed hard-working tradespeople by slapping on a new 576% trades tax, courtesy of your Bay Street bureaucracy, the College of Trades.

Section 7, Minister, of the College of Trades act, allows your College of Trades to tax employers for membership. Will you stand in the House today and promise employers that they will never have to pay the trades tax by the College of Trades?

Hon. Brad Duguid: Mr. Speaker, I’m delighted to respond to that question. In fact, we were very, very clear some time ago, when we waived that provision for employers, so that employers are not paying membership; I don’t know why the member would want to confuse them today and almost make them believe that they are. Employers are currently exempt when it comes to membership for the College of Trades. We did that for a good reason.

I’m pleased to say, Mr. Speaker, the College of Trades is up and running. They have indeed reduced ratios for apprenticeships more than every government in this Legislature on all sides of the House combined over the last 20 years. So they’ve made some great progress to date. We’re confident that they’ll continue to do that, and we’re very confident that they’ll continue to listen very carefully to the business community as they carry on their responsibilities.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Supplementary?

Mr. Garfield Dunlop: Thank you, Minister. You waived it for one year, 2013. We don’t know what’s happening after that.

Only in Premier Wynne’s Ontario would slapping a new trades tax on employers be the best way to celebrate Small Business Week.

Meridian Credit Union, Ontario’s largest credit union, recently conducted a small business survey with Harris/ Decima. The survey found that 75% of Ontario small businesses in Premier Wynne’s Ontario have no plans to hire people next year. Your trades tax for employers will further punish these small businesses.

The difference is clear: The Ontario PCs, on this side of the House, stand up for small businesses on Ontario’s Main Streets; the Liberals, on that side of the House, stand up for their multi-million dollar College of Trades bureaucracy on Bay Street.

Small Business Week is your golden opportunity, once and for all, to confirm that employers will never pay your trades tax. Minister, it’s either Main Street or Bay Street. Will Main Street small businesses ever have to pay your Bay Street trades tax?

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Be seated, please. Be seated, please. Thank you.

Minister?

Hon. Brad Duguid: The rhetoric and fear mongering aside, we very deliberately did not proclaim

section 7, and the member knows that. We have no intentions of doing so. We’ve been clear about that, we’ve indicated that, and I think that’s important.

I suggest the member, from time to time—and I think he has already had an opportunity. He has been able to contact the new chair of the College of Trades, David Tsubouchi, an esteemed former colleague in this House, an esteemed former cabinet minister of his party. I’m very confident that Mr. Tsubouchi is going to do a fantastic job as our chair. I would hope that the member opposite would share that confidence in this fine gentleman, a former colleague of his, who we think is going to do a tremendous job for the trades in the province of Ontario.

We’re very proud of how far the College of Trades has gone—

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Answer.

Hon. Brad Duguid: There’s a lot more work to be done, and we think Mr. Tsubouchi is just the fellow to lead us there.

HORSE RACING INDUSTRY

Ms. Andrea Horwath: My question is for the Premier. Last Tuesday, I was invited out to the horse races in Fort Erie. It was a bittersweet day for the community because in spite of the proud Niagara racing tradition, this Liberal government has decided that the Fort Erie Race Track doesn’t deserve a 117th racing season. What does the Premier have to say to horse people, track workers and the community members about what her government plans to do to shut down horse racing at the Fort Erie Race Track?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: Let me say, Mr. Speaker, categorically that that is not true. I have every confidence that if Fort Erie Race Track wants to develop a business plan and work with the OLG, they can have a future, but it will be a different future than the present situation. That is the reality.

We have said all along that the horse racing industry needed to change, that the Slots at Racetracks Program was not accountable, was not sustainable.

Let me just read what some of the people who are in the horse racing industry have said about our plan. Mr. Ted Clarke from Grand River Raceway: “It’s remarkably better than what our outlook was a year ago today. We essentially went from a place of having no relationship with government and no support to a place where we now have a spot to make a plan. This provides a new set of building blocks to move forward. We have been given some tools with which to work, and hopefully we can put them to good work.”

The people in the industry see a way forward, and we are looking forward to working with them.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Supplementary?

Ms. Andrea Horwath: Well, nobody in Fort Erie can understand why the Liberal government has decided that their community doesn’t deserve a viable future in horse racing—not track CEO Jim Thibert or Fort Erie Mayor Doug Martin; not the jockeys or the concession stand workers; not the kitchen staff, the stable workers, maintenance, security, the mutual desk operators or the suppliers; not the horse owners, the fans or the bugler who calls out the post time—and not the veteran groomer of 36 seasons who pulled me aside and asked me to deliver a simple message to the Premier: Will the government see the light and save horse racing at the historic Fort Erie Race Track?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: The panel who did an in-depth look at how we could put a sustainable plan in place noted that they urged the government to work with Fort Erie to develop an alternative and sustainable plan. There is nothing written in stone that says that Fort Erie doesn’t have a future.

I understand the politics of what the leader of the third party is doing right now; I understand that. But it is not responsible of us to suggest that something that has not been accountable and has not been transparent, which was the Slots at Racetracks Program, should continue.

We have got a plan in place—and I have a copy of the plan here; I can send it over to the leader of the third party—because the plan that was in place, the program that was in place, was not sustainable. We’ve put a sustainable plan in place. We look forward to working with Fort Erie so that they can put a new plan in place.

ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

Ms. Soo Wong: My question is for the minister responsible for seniors affairs. Today there are nearly 200,000 Ontarians who have a form of dementia. In my recent visit at Mon Sheong long-term-care facility, both the caregivers and the families expressed concern about dementia.

As the minister is well aware, statistics show that three out of five people with dementia will go missing at some point in time. Sadly, statistics also show that 50% of those who go missing for 24 hours have a serious risk of death or injury from exposure, hypothermia or drowning.

Mr. Speaker, through you to the minister: Can he please explain to the Legislature what the government is doing to address this growing concern?

Hon. Mario Sergio: My thanks to the member from Scarborough–Agincourt for her very deep understanding and compassion with respect to this very serious issue.

In March of this year, in partnership with the Alzheimer Society of Ontario, we launched a groundbreaking multicultural safety awareness program named Finding Your Way, a wandering prevention program aimed at people with dementia who may go wandering and go missing. As part of this program, the Alzheimer Society will distribute kits that include tips and resources to families and caregivers for preventing wandering incidents and acting quickly in cases of missing seniors.

Our government is very committed to providing funding for the Ontario Police College to develop and deliver training that incorporates wandering prevention into the police curriculum for quick, better and effective response.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Supplementary?

Ms. Soo Wong: I’d like to thank the minister for his response. I know that my constituents in Scarborough–Agincourt and across Ontario are pleased to hear that the government is taking action, increasing the safety of Ontarians with dementia.

During many meetings with constituents, I often hear about initiatives such as the one the minister talked about, the Finding Your Way wandering prevention program. However, many family members and caregivers are unaware of what exactly is in the Finding Your Way kits to assist in preventing wandering or enhance community response when a senior goes missing.

Mr. Speaker, through you to the minister: Can he please elaborate on the contents of the wandering prevention kits?

Hon. Mario Sergio: The safety kit will help families and caregivers establish a plan to ensure the safety, independence and dignity of an individual.

—a personal ID page that can be shared with police in an emergency;

—instructions on what to do when a person with dementia goes missing;

—the latest information on locating devices;

—instructions on how to safety-proof your home and immediate environment to prevent a person with dementia from going missing;

—as well, a list of important tips on what to do when reunited after a missing incident.

Speaker, Ontarians can contact the Alzheimer Society—one of the 38 societies across our province—through Ontario 211 to obtain a kit. As well, it’s available by downloading it.

HORSE RACING INDUSTRY

Mr. Tim Hudak: My question to the Premier is around jobs and the economy. Premier, as you know, the Fort Erie Race Track is 116 years old. It survived two world wars. It survived the Great Depression, but it’s not going to survive the McGuinty-Wynne Liberal government.

I look at everything for what it will do to create jobs, to grow our economy. You seem to want to close down the tracks and toss people out of work. Let me be absolutely clear about this: I fought for that track. I fought to keep it open. We gave it a 10-year lease on life, and I plan to do it again. I hope that we’re on the same page on this, but let me test that out. Folks in Fort Erie reject this notion of a festival meet, the notion of a small-town rural fair where you drive the ponies in, you drive them out and you lose the jobs. That’s not good enough for me. It’s not good enough for the industry.

It is not good enough for the people of Niagara. Will you commit to a full racing season next year to give some life to this community and give them back their jobs?

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Be seated, please. Thank you.

Premier?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: The starting point for this discussion is that the Slots at Racetracks Program was not sustainable; it was not accountable. It was not going to be sustainable over the long term.

The fact is that we have a plan. It’s a five-year plan. It’s a plan that was put together by people who spent a lot of time with the industry. I agree with the Leader of the Opposition: Fort Erie should have a future. The festival plan was one option that was put forward. What I have said is that Fort Erie needs to work with OLG to come up with an alternative business plan.

But to pretend that somehow what was in place was accountable and sustainable over the long term is just not the case. Don Drummond said that. We needed to put a new plan in place, and we’ve got a new plan.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Supplementary?

Mr. Tim Hudak: Now, hold on a second. That’s where I was born and raised. We all have fond memories of the track. We believe in a future for it. Premier, it was you who took the slots out of the track. It was you who ripped them out. It was you who tossed them out of work. I think all of us are tired of the NDP piping up on this issue because, quite frankly, they propped you up. They signed the deal and [ inaudible ] their own paycheques. Half the job losses are on your back and half the job losses—

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Order.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Order. I’ll wait. Thank you.

Please finish.

Mr. Tim Hudak: I fought for the track. I kept it open. I’m proud of that and would do it again. We’ve got a plan to do it. I’ve appointed Randy Pettapiece as our lead on this issue. He’s got a plan.

This is a track, according to your own Sadinsky report, with the second-highest wagering in Ontario. It had 78 full race dates this past year. Your plan is to put them on the road to closure.

Let me ask you this: You’re the Minister of Agriculture as well as the Premier. Will you agree to sit down with Randy Pettapiece and I to actually give life to that track, move it forward and ensure our sustainability—

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Thank you.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Be seated, please. Thank you.

Premier?

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: I have fought to get horse racing on a sustainable footing, Mr. Speaker. I have made it clear to the OLG that it will be integrated into the overall gaming strategy, and that is what will put it on a sustainable footing.

I know that the member for Perth–Wellington was at Grand River when we made the announcement. He knows that the horse racing industry is on a more sustainable footing than it was a year ago—

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Stop the clock. The chippy comments that come in almost like drive-by heckling are not helpful when I’m trying to get control. But also, I know your voices by now, and I know who to come to. So I’m asking that it stop. And member from Nepean–Carleton, please don’t shout the Premier down. Thank you.

Hon. Kathleen O. Wynne: On the subject of festival meets, I would just remind the Leader of the Opposition that the Kentucky Derby is a festival meet.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Be seated, please. Thank you.

CANCER TREATMENT

Ms. Sarah Campbell: To the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care: Last week my constituent Wes Bland was in the news across Ontario because of the roadblocks he faced in accessing a doctor-ordered PET scan. Mr. Bland was forced to make the long six-hour drive to Thunder Bay instead of a much shorter trip to Winnipeg. My office has been in regular touch with the minister’s office since September, alerting her to the urgency of Mr. Bland’s case and the problems he was experiencing accessing cancer care.

Can the minister please explain why her office didn’t take steps to ensure that Mr. Bland could access the care he needed quickly and close to home despite the minister’s knowledge that he was being denied this care?

Hon. Deborah Matthews: Thank you to the member for the question. I must say, I’m a bit surprised at this question because she and I had a very good conversation, I thought, last week about what had happened and why this particular patient was unfortunately directed to the wrong place for the scan that he needed. Unfortunately, the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority sent out information to physicians in Manitoba that was not accurate. We’ve identified the problem, and we have corrected that problem.

I am absolutely committed, as I told the member last week, that everyone in this province get access to excellent care. If they live in northwestern Ontario, and that care is available in Manitoba, then we cover that care. So if they’re entitled to the care here in Ontario, they will get it in Manitoba. We’ve taken the appropriate steps to ensure this does not happen again.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Supplementary?

Ms. Sarah Campbell: First of all, I need to say I appreciate that the minister did take some time and talk to me about this issue. But the problem is that, despite the minister’s assurances that the problem is “fixed” or, as she just said, “corrected,” Manitoba Health continues to insist that Ontario patients will still have to seek prior approval for out-of-province procedures such as PET scans, as stated in their memo.

The minister has said that she has fixed the problem, but has she really fixed the problem when people will continue to wait weeks for approval for out-of-province PET scans or when they’re actually forced to go to the Toronto Star so that care is provided in a timely and close-to-home manner?

Hon. Deborah Matthews: I do my best to do my job in the province of Ontario. To the best I know, my responsibility does not extend to the province of Manitoba. They have set up this rule in Manitoba. It is their rule, not our rule.

I am committed, as I told the member last week, to do what needs to be done at a ministry-to-ministry level to smooth that system for the patients of northeastern Ontario—

Interjection.

Hon. Deborah Matthews: —northwestern Ontario. As I said earlier, they deserve to get the care that someone in Ontario is entitled to, and if Manitoba is closer, that’s where they get it. So we’ll continue to work with the government of Manitoba and the authorities there to make sure that the people in northwestern Ontario get the care they need.

SMALL BUSINESS

Mr. Bas Balkissoon: My question is for the Minister of Research and Innovation. Ontario’s capacity to compete in the global knowledge-based economy depends on our ability to harness our research strengths, encourage innovation and provide support to entrepreneurs. Local business leaders I’ve met with in Scarborough tell me that Ontario needs to remain a leader in entrepreneurship to keep our economy strong, and this will create jobs for tomorrow.

Given the challenges in the global economy, it is more important than ever that we take action that helps turn great ideas into thriving companies and new jobs. Can the minister tell us what action the government is taking to ensure that entrepreneurs are getting the support they need and that programs are easily accessible to them?

Hon. Reza Moridi: I would like to thank the member from Scarborough–Rouge River for that important question.

Entrepreneurship and innovation are at the heart of our government’s jobs and economy strategy. One of our initiatives is the Ontario Network of Entrepreneurs, made up of three networks. The first is our 57 small business enterprise centres that are located in municipalities and help small businesses at the local level. The second one is our network of regional innovation centres, which serve to coordinate the work of all actors at the regional level. The third and last one is the business advisory service, which provides consultation and mentorship to grow businesses.

Mr. Speaker, I am very proud of our government’s investments, which support entrepreneurs and innovators across our province of Ontario.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): The member from Bruce–Grey–Owen Sound on a point of order.

Mr. Bill Walker: Just a reminder that the Ontario Dental Association will be hosting a sports mouthguard fitting clinic in room 340 from 12 to 5 today. It’s open to all MPPs and staff.

A further reminder that the Legiskaters play their first game of the season this Thursday at 5 p.m. against the firefighters at the Ricoh Coliseum.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): The member from Huron–Bruce on a point of order.

Ms. Lisa M. Thompson: I’d like to welcome Amanda Garofalo to the assembly. She is an intern with the Ontario legislative intern program. It’s great to have her working in Huron–Bruce.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Then I’ll do my reminder: Don’t forget the wine tasting is this evening at 5 o’clock. You can’t forget that.

There are no deferred votes. This House stands recessed until 1 p.m.

The House recessed from 1141 to 1300.

INTRODUCTION OF VISITORS

Mr. Robert Bailey: In the west members’ gallery is a guest from Lambton county, from Sarnia–Lambton, Warden Todd Case. Accompanying him are the CAO of Lambton county, Ron Van Horne, and the county treasurer, John Innes; and also another special guest, Myles Vanni, executive director of the Inn of the Good Shepherd. I’d like to ask everyone to give them a warm welcome to the Legislature today.

Mr. Michael Prue: I would like to introduce Mr. Douglas Wong, who is an intern in my office. He just started last week, and he’s doing a terrific job.

Mr. Jim McDonell: I’m privileged to welcome former MPP John Cleary’s wife and family, who are in the east gallery: Elizabeth and their four children, Sharon, Donna, Debbie and John.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Welcome. When I was first elected, he was my seatmate; I sat right beside him.

Further introductions?

Mr. Jim McDonell: Again, I’d like to welcome my assistant from Cornwall, who is up today, Marilyn McMahon, and her sister, who is here—it just escapes me. Thank you. Della.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): We’ll put it on record. Della; right? Thank you.

Mr. Jim McDonell: Thank you.

MEMBERS’ STATEMENTS

BUTTER TART CONTEST

Mr. Rob E. Milligan: This past weekend I had the honour of being one three judges. I was joined by Mr. Rick Norlock, MP for Northumberland–Quinte West, and Mrs. Carol Darling, who is an expert judge and baker herself. I can attribute a few pounds that I’m carrying today to Mrs. Darling.

We were at the first annual amateur butter tart contest, held at the Legion in the beautiful village of Hastings. It was a very tasty event that showcased some of the finest butter tarts, not only in Northumberland–Quinte West but in the province as a whole. As my seatmate, Mr. Pettapiece, pointed out, it is his riding of Perth–Wellington that began the Butter Tart Trail, so I would like to acknowledge that. I’m hoping that Hastings can become a part of this wonderful tour.

I would also like to congratulate Mrs. Jacqueline Beamish, who was my grade 3 teacher, for taking home not only first prize in the contest but also the people’s choice award. I would also like to thank Skye Morrison, Greg Evans and all the volunteers who made the first annual butter tart contest a great success. I know, from the turnout and the quality of the wares, that the second annual butter tart contest will be an even greater success, and I would encourage all the members to come to Hastings next year and enjoy the butter tarts.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): My glucose count went up just listening to it.

AGRI-FOOD INDUSTRY

Mr. John Vanthof: The Local Food Act may soon be passed into law, but the reality is, because of the way the Premier structured the bill, it will not be known for years if it will have any impact whatsoever on Ontarians’ access to local food. The same cannot be said about the draft CETA agreement signed by the federal government and the European Union. Although the agreement has the potential to create winners in the economy, some of the losers are already clear: local food, especially fine cheese.

The agreement will allow the amount of cheese imported into this country from Europe to double. Ontario dairy farmers who supply the milk to make Canadian cheese are obvious losers.

While this agreement does set a troubling precedent for supply management and the marketing regime under which dairy farmers operate, that same system is uniquely equipped to cushion the blow for individual farms. Dairy farmers pool their costs and their incomes. If markets decline by 2% because of CETA, every dairy farmer will take a 2% production and corresponding income cut—a serious blow, but not a knockout punch.

The future for some small Ontario cheese makers is not as certain. Since increased imports will be targeted to specific markets, Ontario cheese makers who supply these markets will not be able to compete against subsidized European cheese and may be forced out of business. There is no pooling mechanism for the cheese maker. Ontario could lose access to some of the local cheeses that they have come to love.

Will the Premier and Minister of Agriculture commit to stand up for dairy farmers and cheese makers to ensure that great cheese continues to be made in Ontario? They need more than goals, targets and talk.

JEAN AUGUSTINE

GIRLS’ LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

Ms. Soo Wong: I’m pleased to rise today to speak about the pleasure of opening and renaming a school in my riding of Scarborough–Agincourt, the Jean Augustine Girls’ Leadership Academy. This school is for girls in grades four to seven and includes academic and extracurricular choices that encourage girls to be tomorrow’s leaders. The girls at the Jean Augustine Girls’ Leadership Academy receive mentorship and become advocates in both local and international issues. I’ve been involved with the Jean Augustine Girls’ Leadership Academy from the very beginning, and I’m very proud of the teachers, staff and students who have made this program a success.

I also wanted to pay special tribute to Jean Augustine, for whom this school was renamed. The Honourable Jean Augustine was an elementary school principal. As many of you know, this former member of federal Parliament for Etobicoke–Lakeshore was also the minister of state for multiculturalism and the status of women from 2002 to 2004. She was also the first African Canadian elected to Parliament. She is currently the Ontario Fairness Commissioner.

In 2009, Jean Augustine received the Order of Canada for her distinguished career as an educator, politician and advocate for social justice in Canada. Jean is an excellent, outstanding role model for girls in my riding of Scarborough–Agincourt but, more importantly for the new school, the Jean Augustine Girls’ Leadership Academy. I offer my congratulations to everyone involved in this new school.

ALICE MUNRO

Ms. Lisa M. Thompson: I rise today to join a number of my colleagues here in this House to recognize a treasure from Wingham. Just prior to our break for constituency week, a number of people stood up and congratulated Wingham’s treasure, Alice Munro, who also has a residence in Clinton, Ontario. It’s an absolute joy to hear that the success that she has realized around the world has culminated in being recognized by the Nobel Prize in Literature.

I want to share with you that locally, at home in Huron–Bruce, there are so many other ways that we celebrate Alice Munro. We have a literary garden right next to the museum in Wingham, Ontario. Growing up, going to high school in Wingham, we studied Alice Munro’s works and how she interwove all of the local communities into her stories. That was a really good exercise unto itself, but I’d like to say, most importantly, that Alice Munro in her success is inspiring future writers in our community as well.

We now host an Alice Munro writing festival. I’d like to recognize the following people; on September 29, these winners were recognized. In the youth category, there was Julia DaSilva; Dana Mitchell came in second; Bronte Cronsberry came in first. Finn Hogue got an honourable mention, as well as Julia DaSilva. Aidan McKee came in third place. In our senior category, it was great to see a number of entries. Helen Rossiter received first place; Jennifer Hutchison, second; Isobel Raven, third; and an honourable mention went to both Marilyn Kleiber and Susan McCrae.

HENRY MERLING

Miss Monique Taylor: It’s with a heavy heart but great pride that I rise today to speak of the passing of a giant in Hamilton politics. Henry Merling passed away this last Thursday at the age of 80. Henry was the ward 7 alderman in Hamilton from 1974 to 1997, but he continued to practise politics until his dying day. He was a force on council and he was a force as a citizen, always standing up for what he believed was right and in the best interests of ward 7 constituents and the city of Hamilton.

He will be remembered as one of Hamilton’s most influential politicians. He cared deeply for the people he represented. People recognized and respected him, and they knew they could always count on Henry.

Henry would visit my desk more or less daily in my former role as the assistant to current city councillor Scott Duvall. He knew the ward inside out and backwards. He knew the people, the developers, the go-getters, the go-to-ers and certainly the best sign locations.

Henry had a hand that could be described as a mitt. When Henry shook your hand, you knew it. He would give it a grip and giggle because he knew he still had it. I will miss his encouragement and him saying to me, “You’re doing all right, kid.”

Henry leaves behind his wife, Wendy, and his daughter, Katie, and was predeceased by his son, Joey.

Thank you, Henry Merling, for your 24 years-plus of service to the city of Hamilton. You will be greatly missed.

FIONA COWLES

Ms. Helena Jaczek: It is my privilege to stand in the House today to honour Mrs. Fiona Cowles, a tireless volunteer from King township in my riding of Oak Ridges–Markham, who passed away earlier this month.

It is always a pleasure to meet someone with a strong sense of civic responsibility and community spirit. Fiona Cowles was one of these people, and her passing has left those of us who knew her with a strong desire to pay tribute to this remarkable and selfless woman.

Originally from England, Mrs. Cowles moved to King township in 1973 and was involved in many organizations: the Concerned Citizens of King Township, the Oak Ridges Trail Association and the King Township Historical Society, to name a few. Over the years, she served as a passionate advocate for both her community and the environmental issues that she held so dear to her heart.

Earlier this year, Mrs. Cowles was recognized as King township’s Citizen of the Year, acknowledging Fiona’s generous spirit and the many years that she gave as an employee, a volunteer and a community activist.

Fiona Cowles will be sorely missed. Her passing is a great loss for her family, her friends and her community, and to all of us she is a wonderful example of a life well lived in the spirit of generosity.

CITY OF BURLINGTON

Mrs. Jane McKenna: Last Wednesday, Burlington celebrated the beginning of the 10th anniversary of the signing of its twinning agreement with the city of Apeldoorn, Netherlands, a relationship dating back to that country’s liberation in 1945. Ten years ago, Burlington and Apeldoorn signed a memorandum of understanding that would officially twin the cities on the 60th anniversary of the liberation.

Last week, a Dutch delegation including Apeldoorn Mayor John Berends, Dutch Consul General Mr. Anne van Leeuwen and Dutch high school students joined a group of Burlington dignitaries—among them, Burlington mayor Rick Goldring, ward 6 councillor Blair Lancaster, former Burlington mayor Rob MacIsaac, and Burlington’s committee chair for Apeldoorn, Arnold Koopman—in beautiful Spencer Smith Park.

They gathered at a granite bench, designed by Dutch artist Gerard van den Berg, that was a gift from the people of the Netherlands to celebrate this agreement. The group renewed that bond with a symbolic ground-breaking at Apeldoorn Park, formerly Elgin Park.

The city of Burlington hosts an annual celebration of Canada-Netherlands Friendship Day every May, marking the anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands by Canadian Armed Forces.

Happily, Burlington’s twinning with Apeldoorn is a friendship that knows no season or end.

SENIORS’ AWARDS

Mr. Monte Kwinter: The Ontario Senior Achievement Award honours people who have made an outstanding contribution to their community after the age of 65. This can include voluntary or professional activities in the arts, community service, voluntarism, education and fitness. This morning, I attended a special ceremony at the Lieutenant Governor’s suite where the Honourable David C. Onley and the Honourable Mario Sergio, minister responsible for seniors, presented the awards.

He moved to Canada with his family in 1949 and writes about his experiences. He has had 18 pieces of his writings published, including seven books of poems.

Honouring seniors for their ongoing work and dedication to their communities is part of the Wynne government’s commitment to ensuring that seniors in Ontario are properly cared for and have access to services and support that improve their quality of life.

NEIL ORFORD

Ms. Sylvia Jones: It’s an honour to rise and congratulate one of Dufferin–Caledon’s finest educators, Neil Orford, on receiving the Governor General’s History Award for Excellence in Teaching. In 2012, Neil was a recipient of the Ontario Premier’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Neil is an amazing role model not only for his students but also for his community. His innovative approach to teaching history has struck a passion within many students and has led to impressive results, as evidenced by Centre Dufferin District High School taking top position in national history tests.

Initiatives like Mr. Orford’s efforts to take students on interactive tours of battlefields in Europe are an example of the enthusiasm he brings teaching history. On these trips, students are asked to compile biographies on soldiers with roots from our local community involved in the battles, and these biographies are then given as additions to the Dufferin County Museum and Archives online database—the first in Canada, actually. What an amazing initiative, and one that is so rewarding for Centre Dufferin students. Clearly, the impressive honour of receiving the Governor General’s History Award for Excellence in Teaching is well deserved.

Mr. Orford has a reputation for inspiring his students to be interested in history, and it shows when you hear the amazing testimonials of his past and present students. I’d like to commend Neil on his incredible dedication and energy and all the amazing work he has done teaching students about the importance of history.

Dufferin-Caledon is proud to have such an amazing teacher like Mr. Orford call our community home. Congratulations, Neil. You deserve it.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): I thank all members for their comments.

VISITOR

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): The member for Durham on a point of order.

Mr. John O’Toole: I’d like to introduce a new staff person starting in my office today—he’s here in the Legislature—Trent Angiers. Welcome, Trent. Good luck over the next several years.

JOHN CLEARY

Hon. John Gerretsen: Speaker, I believe that you will find that we have unanimous consent to pay tribute to Mr. John Cleary, the former member for Cornwall and Stormont–Dundas–Charlottenburgh riding from 1987 to 2003, with a representative from each caucus speaking for up to five minutes.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): The Attorney General is seeking unanimous consent. Do we have unanimous consent to do the tribute? Agreed? Agreed.

Mr. Jim McDonell: On October 6, 2012, Ontario lost an advocate for rural issues, and the people of Stormont–Dundas–South Glengarry lost a humble man and a great friend who worked tirelessly on their behalf. This humble man I speak of is former MPP John Cleary.

John was a big man in stature, but I’d like to tell this House that John Cleary was indeed a modest man, one with a heart of gold, and a real gentlemen.

John was born in Northfield Station, now known as Lunenburg, Ontario, the son of Neil and Wilhelmenia Cleary on August 31, 1932. He resided there, continuing to farm, until his death just last year. John loved rural life and its qualities, including the appreciation of family values that it instills.

John met the love of his life, Elizabeth, when they were just 12 years old, marrying her eight years later in 1952. Just last year, on June 21, 2012, they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. John and Elizabeth have four children: Sharon, Donna, Debbie and John. They are all here today in the gallery. The family has grown to include five grandchildren: Natalie, Chantal, John, Kristina and Alexander; and four great-grandchildren: Nicholas, Isabelle, Kayden and Grayson. John and Elizabeth’s legacy will continue to grow on. His family is here today, and I’d like to reiterate again just how our hearts are with you.

John was trained as a millwright, and worked for Domtar Fine Papers until he was elected MPP in 1987. In addition to the full-time job at Domtar, he successfully ran a beef farm operation. His children talk of working with him on the farm, putting in long days in the field baling hay, feeding cows and all the other chores that make up a farmer’s daily schedule. Anyone who has worked on a beef or dairy farm knows all too well what it’s like to work in a mow at 100-plus degrees.

John was a big volunteer in his local community. In 1972, his friend Tom Maloney approached him to run for councillor on Cornwall township municipal council. After much hesitation John finally agreed, and that was the start of a very successful 31 years of holding political office, first as a councillor, then deputy reeve and reeve of South Stormont, and in 1983, warden of the great and historic counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry.

An interesting story about his start in politics and his reluctance to run for the township council: His wife, Elizabeth, is rumored to have suggested that John just tell Tom Maloney to buzz off. Elizabeth must have been very much like my mother, who said a similar thing when somebody talked my father into running in Lancaster township around the same time. In fact, my dad and mom were very good friends with Elizabeth and John, always enjoying each other’s company at various county functions, events and conferences.

Then, in 1987, John threw his hat in the ring at the provincial level and served four terms as the local MPP until 2003. This is when I got to know John as the township councillor. We often met with him at his home and at Queen’s Park to resolve issues at the township and county level. John was always very approachable and understanding of the issues affecting rural Ontario. In fact, I visited John and Elizabeth just after my election to Queen’s Park, and he gave me what I believe to be some very good advice as a newly elected MPP: It was not to forget why I was here and not to forget the people who had elected me, the people of Stormont–Dundas–South Glengarry.

John Cleary set a high standard of public service in Cornwall and Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry. With a track record like John’s, it was clear that they could never say enough about how respected he was by the residents of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry. John’s success was underpinned by his wife, Elizabeth’s, and his family’s 100% support and by all of his continued efforts to be a caring, honest politician who listened to constituents and followed up on their concerns to make their lives better.

John believed in family, fairness and doing a good, honest day’s work. He believed that if you work hard and treat people right, not only will you reap the benefits but so will everyone else around you. John also never forgot the residents of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry who elected him to be their voice at Queen’s Park. They were always in his heart, and he never forgot why he was here and who sent him here. He was here to do his very best for the people. He said many times that his job was to do what the people wanted or needed him to do, and to do right by them.

I’m honoured to have known John Cleary, and I understand why my dad, Bernie, enjoyed his time working behind him. To Elizabeth’s and John’s family members, my heart and the hearts of the people of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry are with you. Please know that John Cleary will always be remembered with fondness and love. Thank you.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Further tributes? The member from Beaches–East York.

Mr. Michael Prue: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. When I arrived here in 2001 as a rookie, this was an intimidating place. I got to meet all the MPPs of that day slowly but surely. One of the last ones I got to meet, actually, was John Cleary. The reason was because he was a quiet and gentle guy. He sat there and didn’t say much, but he was always very genuine. When I did get to meet him, I have to say that I admired him very much for his 30 years of public service but also for the way he acted and controlled himself and acted in this Legislature.

You would never hear cross words or yelling out, and when he stood up to say something, he meant it from his heart. I think all of us in this place could learn a great lesson from him.

He was a quiet and unassuming man, but he was, most of all, and what you understood almost immediately, beloved by his constituents. He was hard-working and he was constituency-oriented. When we had brief conversations, he would talk about going back to his constituency for the weekend and the many events he would attend and people he would speak with.

He was hugely successful, Mr. Speaker, in his dealings with the people of Cornwall and the area around Cornwall. He was very successful, and you know that. Not only was he elected for 31 years in a row, but he was elected to this place under very trying and difficult circumstances. In 1987, of course, he was first elected in a Liberal wave. Politicians of all stripes in this place come in in great numbers when their party is in ascendance. What he did after that is the true mark of genius of the man. In 1990, when the orange wave swept Ontario, he survived and, actually, his numbers went up.

In 1995, when a Conservative wave swept Ontario, he survived, and his numbers went up. In 1999, when redistribution affected all of the ridings of Ontario and he lost his riding—or at least a part of it—he had to go head to head with a very famous Conservative by the name of Noble Villeneuve, and he beat him. So you can see that a politician who was beloved by his constituents and did his constituency work got elected not only in a wave but survived three things that would have probably done in most other politicians.

He always, in this place, stood up for his riding. Whenever he spoke or said anything, it was about his riding and the people who lived in his riding and the influence that he had on them and that they, in turn, had on him.

He always did what he thought was right. He would take on the government of the day, who, when I was first here, was the Conservative government. But he didn’t think twice if he thought his own party was doing the wrong thing—speaking against them, too. I remember, on one occasion, he was said to have spoken against his own leader when the Liberals were saying what John thought were unfair things about then-Premier Mike Harris.

I want to talk about his family, who are here today. The family obviously has had to make a great many sacrifices over the years. To his wife, Elizabeth; his children, Sharon, Donna, Deborah and John; and I understand friends are here today, Marilyn McMahon and Tom Ayerst: They are here not only because they love John, but they are here in tribute to what their family meant, I’m sure, to all of them.

The weeks that John would be away; the travel home on Thursday or Friday, to get all the way there and then turn around on Sunday and come all the way back; the missed family events that I’m sure occurred—we are grateful in this House to his legacy of honesty. We are grateful in this House to his legacy of integrity. He is an example of a steady, quiet-reflection kind of guy. He was an example to all of the members of all parties of how we should behave in this place.

On behalf of Andrea Horwath and the NDP, we would like to thank John and his family—the Cleary family—for the commitments that were made to public service, but, most importantly, we want to thank them for the integrity that John brought to this job.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): Further tributes?

Hon. John Gerretsen: I’m honoured to represent the government caucus as we pay tribute to John Cleary, one of the most successful politicians in the history of Cornwall and Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry counties.

Once again, in the members’ gallery, we have his wife, Elizabeth, and his children, Sharon, Donna, Deborah and John. I would invite all the members to the government House leader’s office after the tribute here today for a reception, so you get an opportunity to meet the family members at that point in time.

As has already been stated, he was elected and re-elected, provincially and locally, for 31 years. As a matter of fact, the first time he got elected was in 1972, which, coincidentally, was also my first election.

From the Cornwall Standard Freeholder, in an interview that he gave in 2009, he said the following: “What was the most exciting electoral victory for you?” I think all of us can relate to that. It’s always the first one: The first time you put your name forward and get elected. This is what he said—and it sort of coincides with what was said earlier. This is him talking to the Cornwall Standard Freeholder: “Going back to day one, I had been appointed to a tribunal for drainage and fences by the municipality. We had to settle disputes.

Some got the idea I was doing a half-decent job, and they got the idea I should run for council. My wife Elizabeth wasn’t happy—four kids, farm, working at the paper mill, and sometimes having upwards of 70-80 head of cattle” to deal with. “My dad came to talk to her,” and he said to her, “‘Don’t worry! Him running against that bunch in there a long time! You don’t have to worry!’” He won’t win. On election night, he led the polls. That was John Cleary in every way, Speaker.

As has already been mentioned, he was warden of the county at one point in time. He was reeve of Cornwall township council. He was elected here in 1990, 1995, 1999, and up until his retirement in 2003. As a matter of fact, he was first elected in 1987. His last election was an interesting one—Mr. Prue has already mentioned that today—in that he ran against a formidable candidate, the Minister of Agriculture at the time, Noble Villeneuve, also a well-known name in that particular part of eastern Ontario. Even though the Conservatives won in a landslide, he won quite handily.

As a matter of fact, the very first person that I ever spoke to after my election in elected office was John Cleary. You may recall that in 1995 there was this great expectation that the Liberals were going to form government. That’s why many of us ran at that point in time, to be quite honest about it. When that didn’t happen, quite frankly I didn’t hear from anybody here for at least a week or so. I think everybody was just too darned tired out or they were just too disappointed in not being elected into government.

I remember phoning the whip’s office, and John’s office used to be right next to the opposition whip’s office on the third floor of this building. I talked to the whip and I said, “Are there any members around?” She said, “Oh, yes. John Cleary is right next door. I’ll get him for you.” I talked to John, and I said, “John, I’m John Gerretsen. I’m from Kingston.” He said, “Oh, yes. I’ve heard of you. You’re the city slicker from Kingston; that’s right.” But we’re all from eastern Ontario, as Steve Clark would well understand.

I said, “When are you going to have a meeting?” He said, “I don’t know, but one of these days I’m sure we’ll have a meeting, and I guess, with everything that’s going on today, we’ll just have to make the most of it.”

He was one of those individuals that was truly a local politician in every sense of the word, because the other thing he said—and I think many of us that have served in public life, both provincially and locally, can attest to this. When he was asked what he would rather do, be a municipal politician or in provincial politics—most of us don’t want to say this when we’re here in provincial politics. He said that municipal is by far the best. It is very close to the people. If you were a reeve or a mayor now, if you wanted to do something, you got it done, and it doesn’t always work that way at Queen’s Park all that quickly.

I’ll just leave that at that. I can totally identify with that. Certainly it shows you what kind of a gentleman John was in every respect.

There’s always a reason for success. Sometimes it’s a little bit of luck and good fortune, but I think the most important thing is that he remembered that all politics, at the end of the day, is local. You can get so absorbed in this place with so many different issues, but if you forget your local constituency, the people that sent you here, you’re just not going to succeed, and John succeeded in every which way.

As a matter of fact, some of the accomplishments that he had provincially: There was a private member’s bill passed—and John wasn’t necessarily known for putting bills forward on a daily basis like some of us do in this House. But one of his private members’ bills is still protecting consumers and businesses today, 17 years later. On behalf of the Ontario Plumbing Inspectors Association, he put in private member’s Bill 67, which was given royal assent on December 19, 1996. It provided for the professional designation of certified plumbing systems inspectors. It became a reality, and as a result, the consumers of this province are better protected.

There were also a number of local issues that he was quite involved and quite successful in. In the same interview that I quoted from before, he stated that he was very proud, for example, of being able to obtain drinking water for areas like St. Andrew’s in his riding, and upon the completion of the Glen Stor Dun Lodge. He was also very proud of the role that he played in the establishment of the Long Sault Arena. Those are the kinds of issues, particularly in the local riding, that people are going to remember you for, and John will certainly be remembered for all of that, Speaker.

Finally, let me just say this. When the former mayor of Cornwall, Brian Lynch, heard of John’s passing a year or so ago, he stated the following: John “was a real gentleman, modest, hard-working, and dedicated to serving his constituents and to making their lives better....

“John was so successful because he was a caring, honest politician who listened to his constituents and followed up on their concerns. He was much loved by those who knew and respected him. Elizabeth Cleary at John’s side was a constant support in his political career.”

Mention was made earlier about how much effort it takes for members outside of the GTA to be here. I know that John drove back and forth to Cornwall just about every week—well, every week that the House sat and many other weeks in between. A drive from Cornwall to here is about a four-and-a-half or five-hour drive, at a minimum. So that shows you the amount of determination that he had for those 16 years that he served here, to be here, to represent the people of his riding to the best of his ability.

His successor, Jim Brownell, who was here from 2003 until just the last election, stated of him as follows: “In politics, John was a true gentlemen, always going about his work in a sincere and gentle manner. Underneath the gentleness, though, there was a spirit of determination and understanding of what was just and fair.” I think that that is probably the thing that John will be remembered for around this place more than anything else: He believed in being just and fair in all situations.

We say to his widow, Elizabeth, and to the four children who are here today, thank you for sharing John with us for the 16 years that he was able to serve the people of his riding to the best of his ability. He will be missed in this place. It’s too bad that nowadays there aren’t more John Clearys in this House, on all sides of the political fence.

The Speaker (Hon. Dave Levac): I thank all members for their kind and heartfelt comments about John and to the family.

If I may take a pause for a moment, on a personal note, as I said earlier, I was a seatmate of John’s. A gentleman, yes; a gentle man, yes—but I have to tell you that there was an issue that he took with passion, which endeared him to me immensely, and that was about children, and I thank him for that, because he’s the example of what I was in this House for. My memory of him will be forever here, and I thank you for it.

Further, we will have a DVD and Hansard copies made available to the family.

Again, finally, thank you for the gift of John Cleary.

PETITIONS

MARKDALE HOSPITAL

Mr. Bill Walker: “To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas Grey Bruce Health Services’ Markdale hospital is the only health care facility between Owen Sound and Orangeville on the Highway 10 corridor;

“Whereas the community of Markdale rallied to raise $13 million on the promise they would get a new state-of-the-art hospital in Markdale;

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

“That the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care announce as soon as possible its intended construction date for the new Markdale hospital and ensure that the care needs of the patients and families of our community are met in a timely manner.”

I support the petition, will affix my name and send it with page Helen.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

Ms. Catherine Fife: “To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas Enbridge Canada is proposing to reverse the flow of the Line 9 pipeline in order to transport western oil and tar sands oil through the most densely populated parts of Ontario;

“Whereas this pipeline project proposes changes to the pipeline that merit serious consideration, like the increase in oil carrying capacity and the transport of significantly more corrosive oil through the pipeline;

“Whereas this pipeline passes under cities and major rivers and a spill would risk the drinking water and health of millions of Ontarians and cause permanent damage to ecosystems;

“Whereas Line 9’s reversal will have impacts that must be analyzed beyond the National Energy Board hearings held by the federal government;

“Whereas the government of Quebec has already indicated its intention to conduct an independent review of the line reversal impact, including the flow of oil sands crude into Quebec;

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

“That the province of Ontario acts in the best interest of the health and environment of the province and conduct a full environmental assessment of Enbridge’s proposed Line 9 reversal and capacity expansion projects.”

I affix my signature to this petition and give this to Owen.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

Mr. John O’Toole: An important issue in my riding, and a petition that reads as follows:

“Whereas citizens are concerned that contaminants in materials used as fill for pits and quarries may endanger water quality and the natural environment of the Oak Ridges moraine;

“Whereas the Ministry of the Environment has a responsibility and a duty to protect the sensitive areas of the greenbelt and Oak Ridges moraine;

“Whereas the government of Ontario has the lead responsibility to provide the tools to lower-tier government to plan, protect and enforce clear, effective policies governing the application and permitting process for the placement of fill in abandoned pits and quarries;”—and other locations—

“Whereas this process requires clarification regarding rules respecting what materials may be used to rehabilitate or fill abandoned pits and quarries;

“Therefore we, the undersigned, ask that the Minister of the Environment initiate a moratorium on the clean fill application and permit process on the Oak Ridges moraine until there are clear rules; and we further ask that the provincial government take all necessary actions to protect our water and prevent contamination of the Oak Ridges moraine, specifically at Lakeridge Road and Morgans Road in Durham” and the Greenwood plan in my riding of Durham.

I’m pleased to sign and support it and present it to Louis, one of the pages.

DENTAL CARE

Mr. Peter Tabuns: This petition is to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.

“Whereas thousands and thousands of adults live with pain and infection because they cannot afford dental care;

“Whereas the promised $45-million dental fund under the Poverty Reduction Strategy excluded impoverished adults;

“Whereas the programs were designed with rigid criteria so that most of the people in need do not qualify; and

“Whereas desperately needed dental care money went unspent and was diverted to other areas even though people are still suffering without access to dental care;

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

“That the Legislative Assembly do all in its power to stop the dental fund being diverted to support other programs; and

“That the Legislative Assembly fully utilize the commissioned funding to provide dental care to those in need.”

I agree with this petition, affix my signature and give it to page Benjamin to deliver.

HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT

Ms. Lisa M. Thompson: “To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas the Ministry of Transportation has indicated it will be making improvements to Highway 21 between Port Elgin and Southampton in 2014; and

“Whereas the ministry has not acknowledged the repeated requests from the community and others to undertake safety enhancements to the portion of the highway where it intersects with the Saugeen Rail Trail crossing; and

“Whereas this trail is a vital part of an interconnected active transportation route providing significant recreational and economic benefit to the town of Saugeen Shores, the county of Bruce and beyond;

“Therefore we, the undersigned, hereby petition the Legislative Assembly of ... Ontario to require the MTO to include, as part of the design for the improvements to Highway 21 between Port Elgin and Southampton, measures that will enhance the safety for motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists and all others that use the Rail Trail crossing; and to consult and collaborate with the town of Saugeen Shores and other groups in determining cost-effective measures that will maintain the function of the highway while aligning with the active transportation needs of all interested parties who use the Saugeen Rail Trail.”

I really agree with this petition. I’ll affix my signature and send it to the desk with Sophia.

SENIORS’ DINING PROGRAM

Miss Monique Taylor: I have a petition to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario from the seniors in my riding.

“Whereas the Seniors Seva Mandal developed the South Asian Congregate Dining Program to promote well-being and encourage a healthy lifestyle for Hamilton seniors; and

“Whereas the Hamilton Niagara Haldimand Brant LHIN provided funding for this program through the Victorian Order of Nurses (VON); and

“Whereas this program provides a necessary and vital service to about 160 seniors over three days per week with food costs being paid by participants; and

“Whereas the VON is required to be accountable and transparent to the LHIN; and

“Whereas the VON has not upheld their obligations under the memorandum of understanding to maintain open and honest communication, or to meet on a regular basis, or to provide financial statements and reports; and

“Whereas the majority of the budget is being used by the VON for administrative costs; and

“Whereas the VON has decided to shut down the program and replace it with another that does not include the dining portion which many seniors count on as their only opportunity for social engagement;

“We, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to call on the Hamilton Niagara Haldimand Brant LHIN to reinstate the South Asian Congregate Dining Program and find a more appropriate partner to facilitate this.”

I couldn’t agree with this more. I will give it to page Owen and send it to the Clerk.

HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT

Mr. Norm Miller: I have received petitions with a number of signatures on them in support of Bill 79, paved shoulders on provincial highways, from Tom de Gryp of London. It reads:

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas pedestrians and cyclists are increasingly using secondary provincial highways to support healthy lifestyles and expand active transportation; and

“Whereas paved shoulders on highways enhance public safety for all highway users, expand tourism opportunities and support good health; and

“Whereas paved shoulders help to reduce the maintenance cost of repairs to highway surfaces; and

“Whereas the member from Parry Sound–Muskoka’s private member’s bill provides for a minimum one-metre paved shoulder for the benefit of pedestrians, cyclists and motorists;

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

“That private member’s Bill 79, which requires a minimum one-metre paved shoulder on designated provincially owned highways, receive swift passage through the legislative process.”

Mr. Speaker, I’ve signed this in support.

CHILDREN’S PSYCHIATRIC MEDICATION

M me France Gélinas: I have this petition that comes from the people of Chelmsford, in Sudbury, in my riding.

“Whereas there has been a dramatic increase in the use of psychiatric medication on children especially children in care or provincial custody; and

“Whereas it is an established scientific fact that psychiatric drugs cause shrinkage and related problems to the development of the still-developing brain; and

“Whereas it is our responsibility as a society to protect and care for our children;

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

“To create a policy statement discouraging the use of psychiatric drugs on children and send it to all Ontario clinics and mental health care facilities working with children;

“To actively monitor the rate of use of psychiatric drugs on children to ensure that it is going down;

“To amend the professional misconduct regulation so that prescribing medication to children where the use of such medication has not been specifically approved by Health Canada for their age group and purpose constitutes professional misconduct....”

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

POWER PLANTS

Mr. Toby Barrett: Speaker, I’ve got all kinds of names on these petitions gathered over the Thanksgiving weekend at the Norfolk County Fair. It’s titled “Stop the Gravy Train—Call an Election.” It’s addressed to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.

“Whereas the current Liberal government has wasted $1.1 billion of taxpayers’ dollars on cancelled gas plants; and

“Whereas the people in Ontario have lost confidence in the McGuinty/Wynne government;

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

“Request the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario to call an election immediately.”

I support these sentiments and affix my signature.

AIR-RAIL LINK

Ms. Cheri DiNovo: This is one of thousands I’ve already delivered and it says:

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas diesel trains are a health hazard for people who live near them;

“Whereas more toxic fumes will be created by the 400 daily trains than the car trips they are meant to replace;

“Whereas the planned air-rail link does not serve the communities through which it passes and will be priced beyond the reach of most commuters;

“Whereas all major cities in the world with train service between their downtown core and the airport use electric trains;

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

“That the province of Ontario stop building the air-rail link for diesel and move to electrify the route immediately;

“That the air-rail link be designed, operated and priced as an affordable transportation option between all points along its route.”

I couldn’t agree more, and the cost to the health of the children is worth more than this. I’m going to give it to Louis to deliver to the table.

Interjection.

Ms. Cheri DiNovo: I’m being heckled by the Minister of Education. Thank you.

ONTARIO COLLEGE OF TRADES

Mr. Bill Walker: “To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas Ontario’s tradespeople are subject to stifling regulation and are compelled to pay membership fees to the unaccountable College of Trades; and

“Whereas these fees are a tax grab that drives down the wages of skilled tradespeople; and

“Whereas Ontario desperately needs a plan to solve our critical shortage of skilled tradespeople by encouraging our youth to enter the trades and attracting new tradespeople; and

“Whereas the current policies of the McGuinty/Wynne Liberal government only aggravate the looming skilled trades shortage in Ontario;

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

“To immediately disband the College of Trades, cease imposing needless membership fees and enact policies to attract young Ontarians into skilled trade careers.”

I fully support this, will affix my signature and send it with page Sarhan.

LONG-TERM CARE

M me France Gélinas: I have this petition that comes from all over Ontario.

“Whereas there are a growing number of reported cases of abuse, neglect and substandard care for our seniors in long-term-care homes; and

“Whereas people with complaints have limited options, and frequently don’t complain because they fear repercussions, which suggests too many seniors are being left in vulnerable situations without independent oversight; and

“Whereas Ontario is one of only two provinces in Canada where the Ombudsman does not have independent oversight of long-term-care homes. We need accountability, transparency and consistency in our long-term-care home system;”

They petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario “to expand the Ombudsman’s mandate to include Ontario’s long-term-care homes in order to protect our most vulnerable seniors.”

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

HEALTH CARE FUNDING

Mr. John O’Toole: This is another petition that I have spoken to the Minister of the Environment about and nothing has happened. This petition reads as follows:

“Whereas the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care unilaterally introduced cuts to the ophthalmology funding for physician services and diagnostic testing, retroactive to April 1, 2012; and

“Whereas the legislated cuts to the funding for ophthalmology diagnostic tests are up to 80%; and

“Whereas these cuts were implemented without consulting physicians about the impact such cuts will have on the health care of patients;

“Therefore we, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to protect ophthalmology services and consult with the physicians before making cuts to our health care system.”

I’m pleased to sign and support it and give it to Arianna, one of the pages.

DOG OWNERSHIP

Ms. Cheri DiNovo: “To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas aggressive dogs are found among all breeds and mixed breeds; and

“Whereas breed-specific legislation has been shown to be an expensive and ineffective approach to dog bite prevention; and

“Whereas problem dog owners are best dealt with through education, training and legislation encouraging responsible behaviour;

“We, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario as follows”—on behalf of the over 1,000 dogs that have been euthanized because of this cruel law:

“To repeal the breed-specific sections of the Dog Owners’ Liability Act (2005) and any related acts, and instead implement legislation that encourages responsible ownership of all dog breeds and types.”

I’m going to give this to Sophia and sign it to be delivered to the table.

The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ted Arnott): That concludes the time that we have available for petitions this afternoon.

ROYAL ASSENT /

SANCTION ROYALE

The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ted Arnott): I beg to inform the House that in the name of Her Majesty the Queen, His Honour the Lieutenant Governor was pleased to assent to a certain bill in his office on October 10.

The Deputy Clerk (Mr. Todd Decker): The following is the title of the bill to which His Honour did assent:

An Act to regulate the selling and marketing of tanning services and ultraviolet light treatments for tanning / Loi visant à réglementer la vente et la commercialisation de services de bronzage et de traitements par rayonnement ultraviolet à des fins de bronzage.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

SUPPORTING SMALL

BUSINESSES ACT, 2013 /

LOI DE 2013 VISANT À SOUTENIR

LES PETITES ENTREPRISES

Resuming the debate adjourned on October 9, 2013, on the motion for second reading of the following bill:

Bill 105,

An Act to amend the Employer Health Tax Act / Projet de loi 105, Loi modifiant la

Loi sur l’impôt-santé des employeurs.

The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ted Arnott): Further debate.

Mr. Kevin Daniel Flynn: It’s a pleasure to rise this afternoon in support of Bill 105. I myself am a former small business person who started with a little idea and grew it into a company that employed, I think at its height, about 10 people. I was able to sell that company when I was elected to Queen’s Park, because trying to run a business and trying to represent the interests of your constituents are obviously competing interests and ones that I don’t think anybody should attempt to do. So as much as I didn’t want to sell the business, it was time to sell the business.

It’s interesting that often you talk to people and they claim to understand business and then you find that they’ve worked at a large institution all their lives. They worked at a bank or they worked at an auto manufacturer or they worked somewhere else. I think those people who truly understand business are the people who have taken an idea, have somehow gone out and found the capital, taken that idea and turned it into something that didn’t exist before. We know the underpinning of our economy here in Ontario and Canada is the small business community, so anytime I see a bill that’s intended to try to help and assist small businesses—have I spoken before, Speaker?

The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ted Arnott): We appreciate your second speech, but unfortunately the rules only allow you to speak once at a time. I think I have to go into rotation, don’t I? Yes.

Further debate.

Mr. Bill Walker: It’s a pleasure to speak to Bill 105,

An Act to amend—oops, that’s the wrong one—Supporting Small Businesses Act, 2013. I almost pulled out the wrong file.

Speaker, the objective here is to assist small business by reducing the overall tax burden. What we’re told is that the way it’s been implemented and proposed so far is that it will raise exemptions for 60,000 of the smallest businesses. Those with the largest payroll over $5 million will now pay more as they are no longer entitled to the exemption, and all others will not. Apparently it will cost the treasury about $5 million. A key message from our side is, we’re relatively generally supportive because we need to get small business moving. We need to do anything that will help and enhance small business, but this is definitely not the answer to Ontario’s economic crisis.

It’s clear that this provincial government is not listening carefully to the needs of small business owners. They don’t have a plan to run balanced budgets. We’ve been waiting here in my time for two years for that to happen and it hasn’t. It hadn’t happened in the eight before that, and we don’t see it in the foreseeable future. I believe we heard in this House this morning that the deficit is going to be at $12 billion next year from $9 billion this year.

That’s going, in my estimation, in the wrong direction, and these young folks in front of you are going to pay that price for many, many years if we don’t soon turn this province around. Nor do they have a plan to reduce taxes on small business and address the burden of red tape that they shoulder.

I talk almost every day when I’m at home in my great riding of Bruce–Grey–Owen Sound to small businesses and what they tell me is exactly that. They tell me that certainly the challenge to make any kind of a go in business today is getting more daunting and more challenging. They’re overburdened by red tape. Every time you turn around, there is another level of government asking them for more information, which takes them away from their true calling, and that is to serve the customers that they rely on to have a profitable business.

It’s an endless ream of red tape; it distracts them from their business. It prevents them, because they’re spending this time, from actually expanding their business, which would hire more people. As again we heard in this House this morning, between 600,000 and a million people currently are looking for employment. That’s just simply unacceptable in today’s world. We need to do be doing everything we can to focus our processes and our interests and our passion and our energies towards creating business.

Because of these dire policies or, more to the point, the lack of the plan and policies from this Liberal government, business operators in my riding of Bruce–Grey–Owen Sound and other corners of rural and northern Ontario are facing very, very tough times. From farmers to manufacturers to haircutters, every business is struggling to survive due to the rising cost of business, taxes, overregulation and—it can’t be overstated—the cost of energy that, again, this Liberal government has allowed to double over the last eight years. I believe in early November, the rates are going up yet again. That is not something that—

Interjection.

Mr. Bill Walker: That is not something, as my colleague from Northumberland–Quinte West assures me, businesses in his riding no