Bill 75

Bill 752000

An Act to proclaim Robert Baldwin Day

Preamble

Robert Baldwin is a significant figure in the political history of Upper Canada, which is now Ontario. A prominent lawyer and political leader in the nineteenth century, Baldwin is best known for his role in democratic reform. He developed and promoted the concept of responsible government for Upper Canada. He envisioned an Executive Council that would be accountable to an elected legislature. This became a reality with the passage in 1841 of the Act commonly known as the Act of Union, and remains our system of government today.

Robert Baldwin was also active in the reform of local government. Passage of the Act commonly known as the Baldwin Act allowed for the incorporation of townships, villages, towns and cities, each with a democratically elected council.

Given his significant and enduring contribution to public life in Ontario, it is appropriate to establish a day on which to pay tribute to Robert Baldwin.

Therefore, Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario, enacts as follows:

Robert Baldwin Day

1.May 12 in each year is proclaimed as Robert Baldwin Day.

Commencement

2.This Act comes into force on the day it receives Royal Assent.

Short title

3.The short title of this Act is the Robert Baldwin Day Act, 2000.

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The Bill proclaims May 12 in each year as Robert Baldwin Day.