Hansard Transcript 2022-Nov-28 | Legislative Assembly of Ontario

Mr. Sam Oosterhoff: Niagara’s families deserve world-class health care, and that’s exactly what I’m working on delivering with Premier Ford. It’s why I was so heartened to see Infrastructure Ontario’s market update last week, which confirms how our government is making record investments in health care, long-term care, transportation, education and other critical infrastructure.

In Niagara, this infrastructure includes up to $1 billion for the Garden City Skyway twinning in St. Catharines, another $1 billion for a new South Niagara Hospital in Niagara Falls and hundreds of millions of dollars for a new West Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Grimsby.

In addition to the Infrastructure Ontario update on projects in the region, I recently had the privilege of announcing over $2 million in community provincial supports for critical infrastructure upgrades and repairs at our local hospitals. This funding is part of the government’s new investment of over $182 million provided through the Health Infrastructure Renewal Fund and the Community Infrastructure Renewal Fund to 131 hospitals and 65 community health service providers across this province.

Niagara Health will be receiving over $1 million while the Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre in St. Catharines will receive over $600,000 in provincial support this year through this Health Infrastructure Renewal Fund. Additionally, the Oak Centre in Welland is going to be receiving $41,000, Arid Recovery Homes in Fort Erie will receive $27,000 and Wayside House of St. Catharines will receive $29,000 through the Community Infrastructure Renewal Fund. In addition to the provincial funding supports for these important investments, the Haldimand War Memorial Hospital is also receiving over $200,000.

These critical investments demonstrate our commitment to building capacity and ending hallway health care, implementing the most ambitious plan for hospital expansion in Ontario’s history.

Holy Trinity Anglican Church breakfast program

Mr. Jeff Burch: It’s an honour to rise today to speak about an incredible program in my riding of Niagara Centre: the Holy Trinity breakfast program. This Thursday, December 1, the breakfast program, which serves meals daily to those in need, will be celebrating its first anniversary.

I was honoured to join the hard-working volunteers serving breakfast when they first launched this program last year. The success of the program can be attributed to the over 200 dedicated volunteers and countless supporters in the community.

Holy Trinity is also getting ready to host their sixth annual Christmas dinner program. Last year, they handed out over 330 meals to those in need and are preparing to hand out over 400 this year.

Beyond the Streets, an organization I have mentioned many times, works in collaboration with the Holy Trinity breakfast program by finding those experiencing homelessness and connecting them to the program. However, with rising inflation and stagnant wages, donations are becoming more scarce. Holy Trinity Anglican Church food bank coordinator Mary Ellen DuPon recently stated, “We can’t just rely on our parishioners any longer ... We’ve never had to do this before, but in changing times we have to change with them ... We have reserves, but we’re knocking them back.”

Anyone who would like to volunteer or learn more can contact them on Facebook or through their email at holytrinitywelland@cogeco.net.

I hope the members of this House will join me in congratulating Holy Trinity on a successful first year of their program and thanking their dedicated and passionate volunteers. Their community spirit and compassion is truly inspiring and changing lives in Welland.

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Amiera Black

Mr. Matthew Rae: Today I rise to congratulate and recognize an amazing young woman from my riding of Perth–Wellington. Amiera Black is 16 years old, lives in Stratford and is an avid swimmer. She recently competed at the World Down Syndrome Swimming Championships in Portugal. Amiera was one of the youngest swimmers on Team Canada and one of the only two teenagers that competed.

Amiera won an outstanding amount of medals, eight medals in total in the junior division: four gold medals in the 100-metre free, 200-metre free, 100-metre backstroke and 100-metre fly events; and four silver medals in the 500-metre free, 500-metre backstroke, 500-metre fly and 500-metre individual medley.

It’s important to note that many of Amiera’s times would have placed her in the top 10 of the senior division, Speaker.

Amiera will continue to swim in events close to home and, pending a Team Canada decision, maybe in Argentina as well. She is looking forward to the next world championships in Turkey in 2024.

Amiera, you did an amazing job representing yourself, Stratford, and Canada. Congratulations again on winning eight medals at the world championships. I know Stratford and Ontario will be cheering you on for years to come. Go, Amiera, go!

Holodomor

Mr. Chris Glover: On November 26, I attended a ceremony at the Holodomor Memorial at Exhibition Place in my riding of Spadina–Fort York. The Holodomor is a genocide committed against the Ukrainian people by the Soviet government that took place between 1932 and 1933. The Soviet government came into Ukraine, stole every bit of food—they searched houses and barns to find every bit of food—then they sealed the borders and let millions of people starve to death.

At the memorial, we heard from one of the survivors of this 1932-33 genocide: 95-year-old Mr. Latishko. He told us of the horrific crimes against humanity that had been committed against Ukraine.

When Ukraine was invaded by the Russian army on February 24 this year, the people of Ukraine have fought back with incredible courage and resilience because they recognize that this is another generation of a Russian government that has come in to complete the genocide that had begun 90 years ago.

But the attack on Ukraine is not just an attack on Ukraine. It’s an attack on democracies everywhere. Demo-cracies around the world are under threat, from both within and without. And the only way that we can guarantee freedom against oppression and against future genocides is to support the government of Ukraine until the democratic government of Ukraine has been restored to all of the borders of the Ukrainian country.

Rebuild Fitness and Physiotherapy

Mr. Brian Riddell: Today I’d like to share a story about a business in Cambridge that goes far and beyond to assist people suffering from cancer. Rebuild Fitness and Physiotherapy hosts a free eight-week therapeutic exercise program led by this company. For one hour each Tuesday and Thursday, guests of this generous program are instructed in ways that lead to increased strength, stamina and flexibility. The program is designed to combat cancer-related fatigue that results from the disease and its aggressive treatments.

The program began in 2017 and welcomes all fitness levels and is open to individuals who are in pre-treatment, undergoing treatment or post-treatment. I would like to share a couple of comments from people that have gone through this program. A 49-year-old breast cancer survivor had this to say: “I would say that within the first three weeks I could already see the improvement in the mobility of my arm. It was amazing. It was fabulous.”

A 33-year-old lymphoma survivor, whose energy levels hit rock bottom, basically, following six months of chemotherapy, said, “I personally feel 100 times better. I don’t think I’d be this good going back to work if I didn’t” go through this “program. Thank you for the help.”

So I’d just like to have a shout-out for this company and what they’ve done for the city of Cambridge and the residents.

Township of Armstrong sewage lagoon

Mr. John Vanthof: Last week, in a question in question period regarding sewage spillage, the Minister of the Environment said that he believed in full transparency and actually was requesting an audit.

In that spirit, I would once again like to ask the Minister of the Environment for the release of the full documentation of the application and the monitoring documents of a human sewage lagoon located in the township of Armstrong. The people have been asking for the documentation. There have been some legitimate questions raised, starting already with the consultation process. I brought the first issue up more than a year ago.

At this point, we don’t want a technical briefing. We don’t want a letter that specifies one issue or another. We want the full documentation so people can actually see for themselves that the ministry is doing what they claim to be doing, because so far they haven’t seen it. What they’re being told isn’t the same as what they’re seeing on the ground.

Once and for all, please, in the full spirit of transparency, will the Minister of the Environment release the documentation of the sewage lagoon project in the township of Armstrong?

Rotary Club of Sault Ste. Marie Santa Claus Parade

Mr. Ross Romano: It’s exciting for me to be able to rise and speak about something that was quite a lot of fun. Last Saturday I had the privilege and the pleasure of participating, as we always do as elected officials, in our annual Santa Claus parade. The Rotary Club in Sault Ste. Marie hosts the Santa Claus parade; it’s a yearly tradition in our community. Unfortunately, for a couple of years, we weren’t able to participate in our parade as usual.

But I was very, very proud that, during the period of the last couple of years, I’ve been stockpiling these little mini sticks and pucks that we had my office staff put together. I really want to thank my staff in the office—Kathy Beattie, Jen Bellerose and Edie Suriano—who worked tirelessly, putting together all these pucks and sticks. We had 5,000 of them on a trailer and went down Queen Street in Sault Ste. Marie. The look on the kids’ faces was absolutely out of this world. They were so excited.

I really want to thank my wife, Heather; my mom, Lina Romano; and my three boys, Jayden, Jackson and Jarrett, who helped in distributing the sticks; and, of course, all of my staff, again, Edie, Jen and Kathy, as well as Carrie Suriano and Steve Shaw, Jaelyn and Paige, and also Mike—special thank you to you all for helping me out.

It was a huge success, although I had to run up and down the street quite a bit. We had a blast. The kids had a blast. It was absolutely outstanding, and so good to have them all back out again.

Land use planning

Mr. John Fraser: I understand the desire of developers to make a profit by developing the greenbelt. The thing is, we haven’t been elected here to help developers make a profit. We’ve been elected to define and uphold the greater public interest. It’s our responsibility, it’s our duty, it’s our job.

It’s not our greenbelt to give away; it’s the people’s greenbelt. The people’s greenbelt plays a unique and invaluable role for the people. It provides safe, local farm foods for the people. It protects against flooding and helps filter and clean drinking water for the people. It provides natural space, cleans the air and allows the earth to breathe, for the people. It’s the people’s greenbelt. It’s not the developers’ greenbelt, not the government’s greenbelt, not the Premier’s greenbelt. It is the people’s greenbelt.

All of us bear a heavy responsibility to protect the greenbelt for the people. Once it’s gone, once it’s paved over, we’re not getting it back. Because we need to remember: No one is making any more land. We need, all of us here, to protect and preserve the people’s greenbelt for the people.

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Coptic and Egyptian Canadian communities / Immigrants’ skills

Mr. Sheref Sabawy: Over the weekend, I had the honour and privilege to welcome His Grace Bishop Archilidis as the first-ever papal vicar for the Coptic Orthodox archdiocese of Toronto. This important historic event at the St. Mark Coptic Orthodox cathedral was filled with joy and spirituality. May his many years of service be strong, fruitful and peaceful.

As the first elected Canadian of Egyptian and Coptic origins, I am proud to see the Coptic Orthodox archdiocese grow and prosper here in Toronto. Thank you to everyone who worked hard to organize the event and the thousands who attended.

Also, in the last couple of weeks, Canada and Ontario welcomed the new ambassador of Egypt to Canada, His Excellency Ahmed Hafez, and the new consul general, His Excellency Mohamed Fakhry. I had the pleasure of meeting them with the Egyptian community and wish them all the best on their newest appointment. I’m looking forward to our future collaboration to serve Canadian Egyptians here in Ontario and Canada.

Yesterday I was on a Mississauga tour with the active Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development and the Mississauga MPPs. He reconfirmed the government’s mission to help new Canadians to be able to work in their fields and in their careers. With the current shortage of labour in many sectors, we need to tap into the new Canadians who have the right skills and training and expertise to fill that gap. They are here. We need to accelerate their integration, like the IMGs, nurses and skilled workers. The system is in dire need of their skills after many years of inaction from previous governments. On this side of the House and this government, we did Working for Workers Act 1 and 2. We are the only ones that are getting it done.

I would like to thank the minister and the Premier for their unprecedented initiatives.

Gender-based violence

Mr. Brian Saunderson: It’s a pleasure to rise in the House this morning. Last Friday, November 25, was the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, which starts 16 days of activism and will end on December 10, the international UN Human Rights Day.

This November marks Woman Abuse Prevention Month and the 10th anniversary of the Wrapped in Courage campaign in Ontario. Gender-based violence agencies across our province ask community leaders to wear purple—a scarf or a tie—to show their commitment to ending femicide and all forms of gender-based violence in our province.

I would like to pay tribute to two non-profit organizations that provide critical shelter and support services for the women and their children experiencing domestic violence in my riding of Simcoe–Grey: My Sister’s Place in Alliston has provided shelter and traditional services and supports to women and their children in the region since 1987; and My Friend’s House has been supporting women and their children in south Georgian Bay, including Collingwood, Wasaga Beach, Clearview and Town of the Blue Mountains, since 1991.

I am proud to say that our government provided significant financial supports to both organizations during the pandemic through the Resilient Communities Fund, with grants of $72,500 to My Sister’s Place and $101,000 to My Friend’s House.

The courage of a woman alone is not enough to end gender-based violence. It takes the support of an entire community to end this devastating violence together, and I know that all of us in this House commit to doing that.

Introduction of Visitors

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I’m pleased to recognize one of my colleagues in elected public service who is a trustee on the Halton school board: Jeanne Gray, who is here. Welcome to Queen’s Park. It’s good to see you.

Ms. Catherine Fife: I’d like to introduce Kathleen Woodcock, Nadeem Mahmood and Jennifer McIntyre, all here for their OPSBA lobbying day. As the past president of OPSBA, I’m so pleased that you’re here today.

Hon. Stephen Lecce: I want to build on the member for Waterloo’s welcome to the members of the Ontario Public School Board Association: Their president, Cathy Abraham, is with us, as well as Kathleen Woodcock, first vice-president, and Elaine Johnston, who is the chair of the Indigenous trustees’ council.

I see a variety of other friends: Nadeem Mahmood from York region; Kathy McDonald from Peel District School Board; I also know Lori-Ann Pizzolato from the Thames Valley District School Board, and many others. Thank you for your leadership, and welcome to the people’s House.

MPP Jill Andrew: I would like to welcome and thank D. Williams from OPSBA along with executive director Rusty Hick for a wonderful meeting this morning.

I would also like to say that I recognize PDSB trustee Kathy McDonald in the members’ area—good to see you as well.

And last week, Juanita Jones came to the Legislature. She is with OPSEU, a health care worker and RPN for over 25 years, working full-time. I want to thank her for coming to Queen’s Park last week.

Mr. Matthew Rae: I just want to rise to introduce Bruce Whitaker from Stratford, a newly elected trustee in the Avon Maitland District School Board, who is here, obviously, as well, for the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association. I look forward to meeting with you after question period, Bruce.

M^me Lucille Collard: I’d like to welcome, from the Toronto District School Board, trustees Alexis Dawson, Deborah Williams, Michelle Aarts—and other OPSBA representatives: Jennifer Jennekens, Susan Humphries, Karen McGregor, Jennifer McIntyre. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Mr. Will Bouma: I’d like to welcome Claudine VanEvery-Albert, a trustee representing students from Six Nations in the Grand Erie District School Board. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Ms. Marit Stiles: I’m very pleased to welcome all of the trustees from the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association today, but especially my own trustee, Alexis Dawson.

I also want to recognize in the House today with us two friends from Napanee: Barb Linds and Eric DePoe, who was the 2022 NDP candidate in Hastings–Lennox and Addington. Welcome to the House.

Mr. Adil Shamji: Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to welcome the brilliant first-years from the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy. They are the future of our province, and I welcome them.

Mr. Andrew Dowie: I want to rise to acknowledge three trustees who I met with this morning: Julia Burgess from the Greater Essex County District School Board, and Lori-Ann Pizzolato and Sherri Moore of the Thames Valley District School Board. Thank you very much for visiting.

Mr. Terence Kernaghan: It gives me great pleasure to welcome TVDSB trustees Sherri Moore, Lori-Ann Pizzolato and Arlene Morell. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Mr. Mike Schreiner: I’d like to welcome all the trustees who are here today for the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association advocacy day, with a special welcome to two trustees who I met with this morning: Jan Johnstone from the Bluewater District School Board and Martha MacNeil from the Upper Grand District School Board in my riding of Guelph. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Mr. Mike Harris: I just got a note from Barbara Stevens. I know she’s watching on TV. She’s really excited and hopes that the President of the Treasury Board gets a question today.

Ms. Chandra Pasma: As the official opposition education critic, it’s my pleasure today to welcome trustees from OPSBA for their lobby day, including members of the executive council: president Cathy Abraham, Kathleen Woodcock, Kathryn Pierroz, Arlene Morell, Michelle Aarts, Jaine Klassen Jeninga, Susan Humphries, Donna Danielli, David Green, Elaine Johnston; and Rusty Hick, the executive director. And a special shout-out as well to Lynn Scott and Antang Han from the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board, whom I had the pleasure of meeting with this morning.

Mr. Deepak Anand: I would like to acknowledge and welcome Kathy McDonald, PDSB trustee, wards 3 and 4. I’m looking forward to seeing you this afternoon. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Mrs. Jennifer (Jennie) Stevens: I’m looking forward to a meeting later on this afternoon with Ontario Public School Boards’ Association and the members Kate Baggott, Tiya Patel, Julia Burgess and Jack Fletcher. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Ms. Effie J. Triantafilopoulos: I’d like to welcome students Ethan McQueen, Logan Wolf, Michael Finelli and Hunter Parass, and their mothers, Andrea McQueen and Karen Wolf, from my community. In September, 11-year-old Ethan and his friends held the second annual Sleep Out to shine a light on youth homelessness and human trafficking for Covenant House Toronto. They raised a record $16,000.

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Mr. Chris Glover: I want to welcome all the members of the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association for being here today, and I’m looking forward to meeting with some of you this afternoon. I want to give a special shout-out to D. Williams, Alexis Dawson, Michelle Aarts and Jan Johnstone. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Mr. Robert Bailey: I’d like to introduce three individuals I met with this morning at about 8 o’clock: Jack Fletcher from Sarnia with the public school board, Arlene Morell from Strathroy and Bruce Whitaker from Stratford, here with the Ontario public trustees.

Ms. Jennifer K. French: As we’ve heard, we have a building filled today with Ontario Public School Boards’ Association folks. I’m looking forward to meeting with Debora Oldfield, Emma Cunningham and Rusty Hick, trustees from my neck of the woods. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Mr. Dave Smith: I would like to introduce Zane Colt, a former staff member at the ministry of northern development, mines, natural resources, forestry and energy, when we were all of that.

MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam: I, too, would like to recognize all the trustees who are here from the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association and, in particular, I’d like to say a special welcome to Deborah Williams, the newly elected TDSB trustee for Toronto Centre, my own home riding, and, of course, Jaine Klassen Jeninga, vice-chair of the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board and representative for the township of Alnwick/Haldimand, town of Cobourg, township of Hamilton and municipality of Trent Hills. Welcome.

Mr. Stéphane Sarrazin: I would like to congratulate Mabel Follis, who is today’s page captain. Mabel’s family are here with us today. Welcome to her mother, Carolyn; her father, Sean; and her brother, Finnegan, who also participated in the page program in the past—all nice people from the beautiful riding of Glengarry–Prescott–Russell. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

M^me France Gélinas: I, too, would like to welcome, from the Rainbow District School Board, a trustee, Judy Kosmerly—she’s a constituent of mine from Val Carron—and Ryan Sitch, who is from the Lakehead District School Board. They’re here from the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association, as well as Lee Ann McKenna, who is here for Bill 23.

Hon. Prabmeet Singh Sarkaria: I have some special guests to introduce from Brampton: a good friend, Nirvair Singh Sidhu; Amarjeet Singh Dhami; and a special guest from Punjab, Professor Gurinder Singh, a retired associate professor who is visiting Queen’s Park with us today.

Hon. David Piccini: I just welcome everyone from OPSBA and a special welcome to two constituents of mine, Jaine Klassen Jeninga, who is up in the gallery, and Cathy Abraham. I’m looking forward to meeting with you after question period.

Hon. Todd Smith: I’d like to welcome a couple of good friends of mine from Belleville—very good friends: Mitch and Lisa Panciuk. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

Question Period

Health care

Mr. Peter Tabuns: My question is to the Premier. Right now in Ontario, people are being asked to pull out their credit cards to pay for health care. The Auditor General has found that for-profit clinics are pressuring people to shell out thousands of dollars for OHIP-covered services. Why does the Premier think it’s okay to force people to pull out their credit cards to access health care in this province?

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

Hon. Sylvia Jones: We’ve been very clear on this side of the House. While we embrace innovation, while we want to see those exciting opportunities that will ensure our surgery backlogs and our individuals have access to critical health care in their community—we’re doing that. We have also been very clear that it will continue to be an OHIP-funded system in the province of Ontario.

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

Mr. Peter Tabuns: Well, Speaker, she can tell that to the people who shell out hundreds of dollars extra for cataract lenses in this province.

Last week, this government had a chance to crack down on predatory fees in health care. Instead, this government voted down an NDP bill to stop for-profit clinics from charging for services people should be able to cover with OHIP. Is the Premier refusing to crack down on these predatory fees because it would foil his plans to privatize our health care system?

Hon. Sylvia Jones: With the greatest of respect, if the member opposite has examples, then name them. We have a process in the Ministry of Health that ensures if an individual believes they were, for any number of reasons, improperly billed, we do the investigation, we follow up—and in some limited cases, we have gone back and refunded. It is very, very unusual, but we do have a process to make sure that if a person believes they were unfairly charged, there is an investigation and a follow-up.

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

Mr. Peter Tabuns: I’d suggest she read the Auditor General’s report on this because the Auditor General has found that, in fact, her words do not correspond with the actions that are happening here in Ontario. Not only is this government refusing to crack down on upselling and additional fees in health care, the government wants even more surgeries to be going to private, for-profit clinics.

Why is the Premier opening the door to much bigger bills for patients and much longer wait times in pain for everyone else?

Hon. Sylvia Jones: Speaker, I’m going to highlight a recent example I had in Ottawa on Friday with Minister Fullerton and MPP Goldie Ghamari, where we showed an innovation that is happening in the Champlain region, where individuals who are waiting for surgeries can have that surgery in a host of hospitals in that community. Why? Because we see that when we’re matching surgeries and patients and hospitals, we get those surgeries done faster. That’s the type of innovation that our government is investing in, and that will continue in the province of Ontario.

Land use planning

Ms. Marit Stiles: This government has taken a hatchet to farmland over the past few weeks, removing thousands of acres from the greenbelt and destroying existing urban boundaries. Frankly, it is no surprise to find out that these changes will benefit powerful landowners, like Silvio De Gasperis and Michael Rice, who have donor and political ties to the Ontario PC Party.

Given how suspicious this looks, the least the government can do is be transparent about what has been happening behind closed doors. So I ask the Premier, how did the government choose which lands were going to be removed from the greenbelt?

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

Hon. Steve Clark: The member opposite knows that the consultation that the government is engaged in is welcoming comments from the public. We made it very clear. We were open, transparent and honest with Ontarians when we indicated that, at the end of the day, there would be over 2,000 acres added to the greenbelt. The greenbelt would be grown after this procedure. But at the same time, the criteria for the land that is part of that posting is very specific. It’s got to be adjacent to an already urbanized area. It has to have servicing, either on that property or very, very close to it.

The fact is, we’re in the middle of a housing crisis and we have the opportunity to, at the end of the day, grow the greenbelt but at the same time have a minimum of 50,000 new housing starts. It’s a good day for Ontario.

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

Ms. Marit Stiles: That kind of answer isn’t going to fly for Ontarians. One of these greenbelt properties was purchased only two months ago by Conservative donor Michael Rice. At the time of the purchase, the lands were protected greenbelt and, at least financially, worth little. But now that they’ll be open for development, Mr. Rice stands to make millions.

It’s all a bit curious, so I will give the government another chance to set the record straight. Prior to the public announcement of changes to the greenbelt, did the Premier or the minister or any of their current or former staff share any information about changes to the greenbelt with owners and developers that was not already available to the public?

Hon. Steve Clark: We made our intentions very clear with that posting. The information that is available for Ontarians is exactly what’s on the Environmental Registry of Ontario today.

Again, this person, this party, the opposition have a particular bent against building homes. They continuously talk about the fact that they acknowledge we need to build 1.5 million homes over the next 10 years, but every time—we’re going to see it today after question period, when the time for them to stand in their place and look the next generation of Ontarians in the eye and say, “We’ve got your back, and we’re going to be building for you so you can realize the dream of home ownership”—every single solitary time, they vote against it. I think it’s pretty rich coming from that party opposite, the New Democratic Party, to be talking about—

Interjections.

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

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Ms. Marit Stiles: Speaker, there is not a shred of evidence that this is going to build a single affordable home, but there’s plenty of evidence to suggest that these wealthy PC donors made a very careful bet against our greenbelt despite the Premier’s promises never to touch it.

I have written to the Auditor General to ask for an investigation, but the government could clear the air right now. Will the minister and the Premier launch an independent investigation into suspicious sales of greenbelt lands and make the findings public?

Hon. Steve Clark: I’ve said in this House there are properties that are part of that posting that local mayors have asked to be developed. The one property in Pickering in particular has been the subject of discussion since the early 2000s. The property the member talked about in York region, at the end of the day, would be an opportunity to build the new Southlake hospital, something that the local council member wrote to me about.

Over and over and over again, there is a chorus of voices—not New Democrats, granted—who actually want to get shovels in the ground and build homes so that new Canadians who are coming to our wonderful province, the best place to live, work and raise a family—I want to make sure we get housing for them, Speaker—

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I’ll ask the House to come to order so that I can hear the member who has the floor or the minister who has the floor.

The next question.

Indigenous affairs

Mr. Sol Mamakwa: Good morning, Speaker. Remarks in Oji-Cree.

My question is to the Premier. First Nations across Ontario have stated their opposition to Bill 23, More Homes Built Faster Act, due to the clear violation of First Nations’ constitutionally protected, inherent and treaty rights. Chiefs of Ontario, representing 134 First Nations in Ontario, have said, “First Nations are not stakeholders; we are sovereign nations and are entitled to proper consultation.”

Speaker, it’s 2022. It is very colonial for Ontario to abuse their power by making these bills without consultation or engagement with First Nations.

Are you going to consult First Nations affected by this bill?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I’d ask the members to make their comments through the Chair.

To reply, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

Hon. Steve Clark: Our government knows how important it is to work with our Indigenous leaders, to create opportunities for them and meet our obligations to them on our shared priorities.

We’re committed as a government to meeting the province’s constitutional and other obligations as outlined by the member, and our government is committed to honouring the principles of truth and reconciliation and focusing on Indigenous priorities—specifically, sharing our prosperity with them.

We continue to work with all Ontarians. I appreciate the question from the honourable member.

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

Mr. Sol Mamakwa: Speaker, this government cannot continue to say “our” First Nations. You do not own us.

People from across Ontario have contacted my office because they oppose Bill 23. Municipalities are speaking out against Bill 23, and now all First Nations across the province have said they don’t want this bill. That is a lot of people to listen to. Will this government start listening to people who are protecting the lands and the waters, instead of their developer friends?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Minister of Northern Development and Minister of Indigenous Affairs.

Hon. Greg Rickford: I appreciate the honourable member’s question. Look, we have an opportunity here, and that is to build more houses for more families. We’ve heard it from more than just municipalities, frankly. We’ve heard it from Indigenous communities. They see an opportunity to invest in real estate properties. They see an opportunity to create better and more homes in their own communities.

This pan-provincial plan that we have to build more homes is for all Ontarians. We continue to honour the duty to consult, Mr. Speaker; there is no question about that. We began in earnest on this bill and we will not back down from the opportunity to share an opportunity between Indigenous communities and municipalities, and for the greater good of this province, to build more homes for more families.

Mining industry

Mr. Mike Harris: Ongoing supply chain disruptions continue to adversely affect the global economy. This geopolitical instability has only reinforced the importance that our government should place on ensuring the security of our critical minerals and natural resources.

Northern Ontario can be a worldwide supplier of critical minerals, such as nickel, cobalt and lithium, all essential minerals required to construct new electric and green technology. Speaker, can the Minister of Mines please expand on our government’s most recent announcement about the new investments in the critical mineral sector?

Hon. George Pirie: Thank you to the member from Kitchener–Conestoga for the question.

Mr. Speaker, last week I was in Timmins to launch the Critical Minerals Innovation Fund. This is a very exciting time for Ontario as we decarbonize our economy. What we’re doing is critical to the future of not only Ontario, but to the globe. This is a two-year, $5-million fund which will support research, development, and commercialization of innovative technologies, techniques, processes, analytical solutions for critical minerals.

These projects will help increase exploration, mining, development, production and processing capacity of critical minerals in Ontario. Our investment will leverage Ontario’s expertise to tap into new and growing markets and to ensure we capitalize on the demand for critical minerals.

Mr. Mike Harris: Thank you to the minister for his response and explanation of this very worthwhile program. The critical mineral and mining sector continues to demonstrate a solid commitment to advancing economic growth and opportunities in the north. Unfortunately, for far too long under previous governments—and might I add, previous Liberal governments, Mr. Speaker—this sector did not receive the respect and support it deserves. As someone who grew up in North Bay, I’ve seen it first-hand.

This is why our government must show leadership by partnering in good faith with companies that are at the forefront of critical mineral innovation. Speaker, can the minister please tell us how the mining and business community has responded to our government’s new critical innovation fund?

Hon. George Pirie: Thank you again for the question. Mr. Speaker, you don’t have to take our word for it. Just listen to what the CEO of Canada Nickel, Mark Selby, had to say: “The funding announced today by the Ontario government is an important signal of its support for Ontario’s mining and downstream processing industries.” They get it, sir; they get it.

Mr. Speaker, I know there are industries that will leverage this fund to partner with Indigenous communities, non-profits or colleges—academics—to ensure Ontario remains a leader in innovation in the mining sector. This will strengthen our Critical Minerals Strategy and help us achieve our goal by creating a supply chain for clean technologies right here in Ontario.

Child and family services

Mrs. Lisa Gretzky: My question is to the Minister of Children, Community and Social Services.

Last week I told the minister about the unacceptable conditions for children and youth in the child welfare system. I told her about how kids in for-profit group home Hatts Off are being overmedicated, chemically restrained; how kids are regularly being prescribed psychotropic medication after only five- to 10-minute-long doctor appointments, medication that sometimes made them feel “heavily suicidal” or “like zombies.” I told her about how vulnerable kids receive punitive punishments. I asked her to investigate these serious allegations of neglect and mistreatment. She dodged the question.

Speaker, I’ll ask again: Will the ministry acknowledge how bad the system is for kids in their care and commit to a full investigation into Hatts Off?

Hon. Merrilee Fullerton: As the member opposite would have heard me say numerous times in the last week, there is no room in our system for providers who are not in compliance with the requirements that are set out. I have said this repeatedly. The time for more reports is over. It’s our government that is taking action on this.

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This is a child welfare redesign that has been discussed and consulted across the sector. It is about improving the inspections. We’ve increased the number of inspectors. We’ve increased the number of unannounced inspections. We’ve addressed the medication—the chemical restraints.

Again, the consent for medical treatment, including youth in care, is enshrined in law. That means it’s not achieved through coercion. It means that the homes have to abide by the law. That’s why we have the inspections. It’s why we have improved accountability. It’s why we’ve improved oversight. It’s why we are doing this after decades of neglect by the previous government, supported by the NDP.

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

Mrs. Lisa Gretzky: The one concrete action that this minister could take today is to launch an investigation into Hatts Off.

The problems aren’t limited to Hatts Off; it’s an issue across the entire for-profit group-home system. For-profit homes make up a quarter of all operators, over half of all serious occurrence reports and 83% of all instances of the use of physical restraints. Companies looking to make a profit off vulnerable children have no place in our province’s child welfare system.

The minister keeps touting the government’s welfare redesign. So I’ll ask the minister this question right now. It’s a yes or no answer: Will the minister commit to abolishing the for-profit child welfare system model and putting the care of children above corporate profit?

Hon. Merrilee Fullerton: I think the biggest question is why the member opposite and her party and her group did nothing and sat on this for decades. Our government is taking action. We want every child and youth to have a safe and loving home. That’s why we’re redesigning the child welfare system. That’s why we’ve boosted the number of inspections at licensed group homes since January 2022. It’s why we’ve added 20 new staff to support enhanced inspections of children’s residential services. It’s why we released the children and young persons’ rights resource in youth-friendly language to help children, youth and young persons understand their rights and use their voices. And we’ve backed up this important work with significant investments.

Our government is fixing a long-standing issue that the previous government, supported by the NDP, never bothered to.

Northern Ontario development

Mr. Kevin Holland: My question is to the Minister of Northern Development. With continuing global economic challenges, concerns persist among our tourism operators, especially those in the north. Last week, the Northern Ontario Tourism Summit took place in my home of Thunder Bay. This critical summit was an opportunity for tourism operators to gather together, strategize and examine ways to address ongoing economic challenges.

Can the Minister of Northern Development please elaborate further on what our government and his ministry in particular are doing to help support this sector as they move forward?

Hon. Greg Rickford: I want to thank the member, my neighbour, for that important question. In my welcoming remarks at the Northern Ontario Tourism Summit, there was a palpable excitement around the idea not only that we could be live at the forum but that we could share and celebrate in the incredible opportunities emerging from a post-COVID world—no doubt that the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund was there, to the Northern Ontario Recovery Program. We used words like “planning,” “renovating,” “enhancing,” “repairing,” “refurbishing” and “reopening, Mr. Speaker: an expanded partnership with Indigenous Tourism Ontario and a commitment to tourist operators that, at every step of the way in a post-COVID world, the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund, the Ministry of Northern Development and this government would stand with tourist operators in northern Ontario.

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

Mr. Kevin Holland: Thank you to the minister for his response. It’s encouraging to hear about our government’s commitment to supporting the north and its tourism sector. Because of our government’s investments, businesses will be able to expand their operations, create jobs and contribute to our economic prosperity, helping to attract more visitors.

While these investments and the summit meeting are vital for northern Ontario’s economic success, we must ensure that our government continues to advocate for this sector and region year-round. What further actions is our government taking to support economic development for communities across the north?

Hon. Greg Rickford: Mr. Speaker, I announced $4.9 million in the latest tranche focused squarely on communities across our vast 800,000-square-kilometre region known as northern Ontario. We’re drawing up plans for an event centre in Red Lake. We’re planning with Garden River First Nation to connect the Ojibway Park trail to the Trans Canada Trail. We want to reopen Silver Islet General Store for retail, food and educational tourist destinations. Kapuskasing’s golf and recreation club is going to be revamped. We’re going to support the town of Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands in refurbishing the recreation centre. The Blind River Curling Club is going to get a new roof.

These are all small, in some respects, but very important announcements for those communities as they open their doors back up to all the people who want to come and celebrate what we already know what’s great about northern Ontario.

Municipal government

Mr. Jeff Burch: My question is to the Premier. We understand the urgency of getting affordable housing built in Ontario. Families are struggling to pay their rent and find an affordable home. However, folks in Niagara and across this province are perplexed by this government’s move to address this crisis by allowing the Premier to hand-pick and install regional chairs, whenever he pleases, to do his bidding.

In Niagara, Regional Councillor Wayne Redekop recently said, “This is the second election in a row that this government interfered with the election of the chair.... In 2018,” they “revoked the right of the residents of Niagara to elect the chair directly. Now in 2022,” they are “revoking the right of the elected representatives of the residents to select the chair.”

Why won’t this government work collaboratively to address the affordable housing crisis and stop this ham-fisted and insulting power grab?

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

Hon. Steve Clark: Speaker, that’s exactly why we want to have some consistency and work with a great chair like Jim Bradley in Niagara to ensure that the extension of strong-mayor powers is smoothly done at the regional level and, as well, that we ensure that all of those regional governments that we’ll be dealing with have the opportunity to meet our provincial priorities and get shovels in the ground. At the end of the day, this is all about building 1.5 million homes over the next 10 years and having that consistency at the regional level while we’re working through the strong-mayor powers is so very important.

Again, Speaker, it’s a bit rich from this member who served municipally to be calling into question our motive in ensuring that Jim Bradley works with us. Shame on you.

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

Mr. Jeff Burch: Speaker, over the past week, I’ve had the opportunity to speak with a number of Toronto city councillors who are outraged by this government’s move to give mayors the power of minority rule. In a democracy, a mayor, a Premier, a Prime Minister or a President must earn the votes of the majority of legislators to pass laws in the name of the citizens who democratically elected them—but no longer in Toronto. Now the Premier and the mayor can pass laws that serve their own agenda from behind closed doors with just eight in favour and 17 opposed.

Churchill once said that democracy is the worst form of government except for all others. Why do the Premier and John Tory prefer the other ones?

Hon. Steve Clark: Well, three words: stability, continuity and efficiency. We’re working to look at all of those areas at the regional level. That’s why we’ve extended the strong-mayor concept to those six regions in Bill 39. But at the end of the day, what we’re doing in Toronto and Ottawa—I’ve said earlier this summer with our very first bill. One third of the projected growth in Ontario over the next 10 years will take place in our two largest cities of Toronto and Ottawa.

We need to ensure that we give those mayors the tools they need to be able to ensure that our provincial priorities are met. We’ve had great conversations with Mayor Tory. Unlike the NDP, we support our great mayor here in the city of Toronto, Mayor Tory. We want to work with him, and we’re glad that he wants to help meet those provincial priorities for building more housing.

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Health care funding

Mr. Adil Shamji: My question today is for the Minister of Health—

Interjection.

Mr. Adil Shamji: —on behalf of all of the patients in Ontario who currently face the worst health care system performance in this province’s history. Patients are tired of empty words. They’re tired of hearing about inadequate preparation for this respiratory season.

We’ve heard this government crow about restarting the CPSO’s practice-ready assessment program—the same program they cancelled in 2018. We’ve seen them pat each other on the back for asking hospitals to make surge plans—the same surge plans all hospitals make every year, whether a minister asks them to or not. We’ve heard them celebrate being in a position so dire that they have to ask SickKids staff to train nurses in community hospitals outside of their scope of practice. And we’ve heard them claim they’re keeping students in school, even though tens of thousands of them miss class every day because of respiratory illnesses. All the while, ER wait times get worse and worse.

Will the Minister of Health admit that this crisis has slipped out of the government’s hands, and instead present a real plan?

Hon. Sylvia Jones: I am proud to talk about the innovation and the changes we have made because, bluntly, our health care system was not looked after during the previous administration—15 years of ignoring Auditor General reports talking about a lack of family physicians that will be needed in northern Ontario. What did we do? We have initiated two new medical schools in the province of Ontario, historic investments in health care.

The member opposite has a lot of audacity, when his party was the one that cut residencies in the province of Ontario. What has our government done? We’ve increased those positions. We’ve made sure that there are opportunities for people who want to practise medicine in the province of Ontario to have those opportunities. We will continue to do that and we will proudly communicate that message.

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

Mr. Adil Shamji: First I’d like to thank the member for Brampton North for his enthusiasm for my question.

Next, I’d like to remark to the Minister of Health that—

Interjections.

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

Mr. John Yakabuski: The Speaker is standing.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The Speaker is standing because I can’t hear the member for Don Valley East, who has the floor, because a number of members are interrupting him.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): And he rightly has the floor. Come to order.

Start the clock. Member for Don Valley East.

Mr. Adil Shamji: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just wanted to point out and thank the Minister of Health for reminding us that, as far as I’m concerned, this government was elected in 2018 and they are the previous government—

Interjections.

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

Mr. Adil Shamji: I’m sorry; that’s not something to be proud of.

I’m still struggling to understand how this government continues to cherry-pick their stats to defend the state of our health care system. They brag about starting two new medical schools, even though they haven’t moved beyond the planning stages for either. Why should we believe they can deliver on those when they can’t even deliver on licence plates? They also talk about their—

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

The Minister of Health, to reply.

Hon. Sylvia Jones: I will proudly put the investments and our record in the last four and a half years against the 15 years of inaction that happened under the Liberal government—

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Order.

Hon. Sylvia Jones: To suggest that we have not made those investments does not speak to what we are seeing on the ground: over 50 different capital investments in our health care system, whether it is new hospitals, whether it is expansions, whether it is badly needed renovations—

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): Order.

Hon. Sylvia Jones: Why? Because the previous government didn’t get it done. Our government is doing that.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The member for Ottawa South will come to order. The member for Kitchener–Conestoga will come to order.

The next question.

Infrastructure funding

Mrs. Nina Tangri: Experts predict that Ontario’s population is expected to increase by 30% over the next two decades. With this growing population, our infrastructure must grow with it. Modernizing our public infrastructure and building a seamless transportation network will help Ontario meet our current and future demands and will help strengthen the economy. Unfortunately, under the previous Liberal government, supported by the NDP, the people of my riding endured years of delay and neglect when it came to building essential projects.

Can the Minister of Infrastructure please update the House on our government’s progress in addressing our infrastructure needs?

Hon. Kinga Surma: Our government’s capital plan is one of the most ambitious in the province’s history. We’re building Ontario like never before. We’ve dedicated over $159 billion in the next 10 years to support priority projects such as transit, highways, schools, hospitals and long-term care. In fact, this quarter’s listing includes 39 projects in active procurement and pre-procurement. By building these projects, we will finally build a subway system that will help residents travel across the city more easily and affordably. By building more highways, we will ease congestion and help with the delivery of goods, and address capacity challenges faced by our health care and long-term-care sectors.

As the member mentioned, the people of Ontario gave our government a strong mandate to build Ontario, and that is exactly what we will do.

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

Mrs. Nina Tangri: Thank to the minister for that answer. It’s great to see how our government is taking decisive action by building the critical infrastructure needed for our communities.

When building for today and the future, we can’t allow the mistakes made by the previous Liberal government to impact us as we move forward. Under the previous Liberal government, they delayed, neglected and closed critical infrastructure, when we needed investments to be made.

Can the minister please share with the House what our government is doing to deliver effective and resilient infrastructure for all Ontarians?

Hon. Kinga Surma: Building Ontario means ensuring we are laying the foundation for a stronger and more productive Ontario. We’re building a hospital in Brampton, thanks to the hard work from the members from Brampton West and Brampton South. We have shovels in the ground when it comes to building transit in the city, something which previous governments failed to do. We are opening new and improved schools, unlike the Liberal government, which was busy closing schools across the province. We are connecting every single community to high-speed Internet by the end of 2025, and we are building long-term-care homes at a rapid pace, completing construction in Durham of a long-term-care home within 13 months as opposed to eight years.

Mr. Speaker, we are building faster, smarter and better because the people of this great province are depending on us.

Health care workers

MPP Jamie West: My question is for the Premier. During question period, the parliamentary assistant for health said that she was “tired of listening to people trying” to instill fear “by using words and expressions like ‘the worst crisis in generations’....” I’m wondering if she’s including health care workers like Pam. Pam is a CUPE nurse in Oshawa emergency. Pam says that this is the worst crisis in generations. Pam has been a nurse for 36 years and told me that she can’t do this anymore. She said, “This is the worst I’ve ever seen it. I don’t know why we’re still here. I guess it’s because we love the people who need us. It’s not because of how the government treats us.”

My question is, why does the Conservative government think they know better than health care workers like Pam?

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

Hon. Sylvia Jones: From the very beginning, we have seen incredible resilience and commitment in our health care system, particularly with our nurses, personal support workers and all of the individuals who really stepped up during the pandemic: first, of course, when we didn’t have vaccines; and then, ultimately, really assisting in the vaccine rollout, whether those were community paramedics working, going directly into buildings and talking to residents to explain to them the benefits.

There is no doubt that our health care workers in the province of Ontario have gone above and beyond in the last three years, which is why our government will continue to go above and beyond to make sure they have the appropriate workforce, the appropriate workplaces, safe workplaces, to continue to do this important work.

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

MPP Jamie West: Back to the Premier—I hope I get an answer from the Premier: Nelson is a CUPE building operator at Oakville hospital. He told me that Halton hospital had people waiting in emerg for 12 and a half hours because they had no nurses at all. They called Oakville for assistance, but Oakville couldn’t help. They had 50 people lined up at their emerg, and they only had one triage nurse.

Nelson said, “In the past two years, 30 people have quit. Nobody wants to work here. It’s never been like this. It’s never been this bad.”

Speaker, will the Premier finally listen to health care workers like Pam and Nelson, admit Ontario’s health care is on life support and be part of the solution by investing in public health care and repealing Bill 124?

Hon. Sylvia Jones: It is exactly the health care workers who we are listening to when we put forward programs like the dedicated offload nursing program, to make sure that our community care paramedics, our paramedicine experts can go in, have that dedicated offload nurse help to stabilize the patient and have that paramedic turnaround.

It is exactly why we are listening to paramedics when they say, “We can do things differently if you only change a few policies,” and we’ve done that with the 911 change, where instead of always having to go to an emergency department, they can, with the patient’s approval, take them to a long-term-care home, a mental health facility, other opportunities. We are listening to the experts in the field, the experts on the front line, to make sure that we provide better care.

Manufacturing jobs

Mr. Andrew Dowie: My question is to Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. The sacrifice, hard work and dedication of the Ontario worker has made our province economically sound, prosperous and strong. Unfortunately, Ontario is not immune to the impacts that geopolitical instability, high inflation and supply chain disruptions continue to cause to the global economy.

In my communities of Windsor and Tecumseh, ongoing economic challenges are adversely affecting our business and manufacturing sectors. It’s imperative that our government continue to stand in support with the Ontario worker during these uncertain times.

Speaker, what is our government doing to support those whose jobs have been affected, and what programs do we have in place to assist them?

Hon. Monte McNaughton: I want to thank the member from Windsor–Tecumseh for that question and all the work he’s doing to bring the concerns of the people of Windsor to Queen’s Park.

Auto workers are the backbone of Windsor and Ontario’s economy. These are good-paying union jobs, with pensions and benefits. These are jobs where you can buy a home with a two-car garage, raise your family and take your kids to hockey practice at the end of your shift.

Speaker, when our automotive industry suffers, we all suffer. Last week, I joined the member for Essex in standing shoulder to shoulder with Unifor Local 444 president, Dave Cassidy, in Windsor. Together, we announced more than $550,000 for employment action centres to support more than 800 auto workers and their families. We’re leaving no one behind.

I’ll share more in our supplemental.

Mr. Andrew Dowie: Thank you to the minister for that answer. The ministry support for laid-off workers from Stellantis and Syncreon was truly groundbreaking and appreciated. It is encouraging to hear that our government is standing with our workers.

With roughly 13,000 jobs unfilled in our region, including Windsor and Sarnia, skilled trades jobs are in high demand and favourably looked upon. Our government must continue to show leadership in advancing the vital importance of skilled trades and manufacturing job opportunities in our province.

Speaker, my question is once again to the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development: What is our government doing to invest in our employment services to help our highly skilled workers?

Hon. Monte McNaughton: Again, to the member, thanks for that question.

To build a stronger Ontario that works for everyone, labour, business and government must work together. That’s why I was honoured to stand with our partners to announce employment action centres for their workers. Working with Unifor Local 444 and Local 195, our action centres are supporting affected workers by hosting job-searching sessions, organizing individually tailored career planning, providing one-to-one peer counselling and mental health supports, and supporting resumé and cover letter writing. All of these services are focused on helping workers to re-enter the workforce quickly.

Mr. Speaker, it’s this government, under the leadership of Premier Ford, that has the backs of our auto workers. We’re helping them find new good jobs today and preparing them for better jobs and bigger paycheques tomorrow.

To build Ontario, we need all hands on deck.

Health care

M^me France Gélinas: Ma question est pour la ministre de la Santé.

Last week, the government sent a letter directing primary care organizations to offer clinical services seven days a week, including evenings, due to high-volume pressures across our health care system. But starting this Thursday, people with children will have to pay.

Here’s what Gail Kirk had to say:

“I guess my Christmas presents to my four-year-old granddaughter and my four-month-old grandson will be a $290 annual subscription to KixCare.

“Gramma who lives on CPP and OAS will have to do the government’s job of ensuring access to health care.

“If this is your idea of improving access, then get out of politics.”

What would the minister like to say to Mrs. Gail Kirk?

Hon. Sylvia Jones: The memo that the member opposite is referencing was actually not sent to family doctors; it was sent to organizations, and the point was to encourage them to do what so many of our family physicians, our nurse practitioners, primary care have been doing, and that is stepping up and looking after their patients. We want to make sure that everyone has access to those primary care physicians as quickly as possible. It does ultimately take some pressure off the emergency department.

I want to reinforce that this is an agreement that was reached with the Ontario Medical Association—voted upon by their members—and it will ensure that while virtual care continues, it will be appropriate. We don’t want to replace in-person care with 100% virtual care. We’ve seen that there is value in virtual care in the province of Ontario, but we also need to make sure that there is a balance—to have individuals access their primary care physicians. That’s what the OMA agreement has done.

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

M^me France Gélinas: Mrs. Gail Kirk is not the only one. Sara from Nickel Belt lives with a disability. She wrote to me because she is concerned about these changes. She wrote:

“My kids are away at school, my parents are elderly and live in a rural area with no WiFi”—Nickel Belt—“I can’t emphasize enough how much we depended on phone GP appointments....

“I’m really concerned my very ill parents will contract COVID at their doctor’s office, and that seems unnecessary and ludicrous.”

Speaker, is decreasing access to telephone consultations during a time of urgent system pressures ludicrous, or is it other proof that the minister is trying to push patients to private services where they pay out of pocket?

Hon. Sylvia Jones: Again, I will remind the member opposite that this is a three-year agreement reached with the Ontario Medical Association.

I very much resent the suggestion that virtual care is appropriate in 100% of cases. We need to make sure that that balance is there. We need to make sure that we have individuals having access to their family care physicians, their primary care physicians, nurse practitioners—all of those organizations that are providing care in our community. That work will continue.

Virtual care in the province of Ontario will continue. What changes is an agreement that was reached with the Ontario Medical Association, voted on by their members and supported by their members—a historic agreement that did not have to go to arbitration. That never happened under the Liberals and the NDP.

Ontario Disability Support Program

Mr. John Jordan: My question is for the Minister of Children, Community and Social Services.

As we know, the Ontario Disability Support Program was not a priority for the previous Liberal government. Unfortunately, because of their inaction, the most vulnerable in our province were forced to deal with an outdated system. Ontarians that rely on this program deserve better.

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In our recent fall economic statement, our government has implemented a modernized approach to better address and support individuals who receive support through this program. Speaker, can the minister please update the House on how our government is transforming social assistance and what the reaction has been?

Hon. Merrilee Fullerton: Thank you to the member from Lanark–Frontenac–Kingston for the very good question. He is absolutely right: Our government is making a long overdue transformation of the ODSP, a program that has faced challenges for many years. Earlier this fall, we made the largest increase to ODSP rates in decades. But our work was not done there, and we knew it. That’s why, two weeks ago, we announced the first-ever annual alignment of ODSP rates to inflation. Each of these measures will make a real difference in people’s lives.

This year’s increase in rates is putting money in the pockets of people who need it most to cover life’s essentials, and tying rates to inflation means people can be assured that their ODSP rates will keep up.

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

Mr. John Jordan: Thank you to the minister for her response. Our government’s track record of supporting those who depend on social assistance is clear. In response to our recent program transformation, the CEO of Community Living Ontario, Chris Beesley, stated that these changes are “a signal from the government, that they are listening” and that “this is a definite step in the right direction.” While these words are encouraging, we all know that there is more to be done to support those on social assistance.

Speaker, once again, can the minister please explain what further actions our government is taking to improve the experience of people on ODSP?

Hon. Merrilee Fullerton: Again, thank you to the member for his good work. In addition to the positive changes I mentioned in my first response, I’d like to mention our government’s fivefold increase to the ODSP earned income threshold. This will encourage people with a disability who want to increase their work hours to do so, without losing their benefits. We’ve worked with municipalities to create a shared vision for a modernized ODSP, and we’re also making it easier to access support with new digital tools and modern service options, including an online application form, an expansion of the MyBenefits platform and new communication channels to allow two-way digital messaging between clients and caseworkers.

Speaker, this is important work and our government will continue to do it.

Mental health services

Ms. Doly Begum: My question is to the Premier. On three separate occasions just recently, families in Scarborough Southwest have had to rely on calling 911 because their family member was going through a mental health crisis—and that is only in the hope that they might get professional support for mental health. I heard from one parent whose daughter has been waiting, after immense trauma, for 18 months to get mental health support. Another parent called me in tears, feeling guilty that she had no choice but to call 911 for her son. This is the terrifying reality across our province to get mental health support.

My question is very simple: What will this government do so that families do not have to rely on 911 emergency services or wait for more than a year to get mental health support?

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

Hon. Michael A. Tibollo: Thank you to the member opposite for that question. Mr. Speaker, we recognize the impacts that the pandemic has had on the well-being of children across Ontario. As a result of that, we have made investments and have continued to make investments: $20 million, for instance, on an across-the-board 5% increase in funding to increase all core mental health supports and addictions services for children and youth. This includes $2.7 million for new hubs in Guelph, Renfrew, Timmins and Windsor. The youth wellness hubs are actually providing immediate support to children and youth so that they can have a place that’s safe and culturally appropriate to go and get help.

Through our Addictions Recovery Fund, as well, we have invested $8 billion to another eight hubs to continue to increase capacity for children and youth. These sites have helped over 12,000 people—children between the ages of 12 and 25, with low-barrier addictions and mental health supports.

We know how critical the supports are for our children and youth and we are making investments to ensure that they have the help they need, where they need it.

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

Ms. Doly Begum: I want to thank the minister for his response. I appreciate the investments they have already made, but I’m asking, what will the government do, especially in areas like Scarborough?

According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, the number of people waiting for mental health supports has increased by 135%, with an increase of 175% in the number of people who need urgent assessment and support and who may be at risk of homelessness. The CMHA has only received a total funding increase of 3.9% over the last 11 years, nowhere close to the rate of those seeking mental health supports, especially in my community and communities across this province, or to the level of mental health and addictions support necessary.

Will this government commit today to consistent annual increases to meet the need of mental health and addictions support services across this province?

Hon. Michael A. Tibollo: Thanks again for that question. Our commitment couldn’t be clearer. There is a minister responsible for mental health and addictions. There is a commitment of $3.8 billion and $525 million in annualized funding, and we are looking at building continuums of care, not only in the city of Toronto but across the province of Ontario.

We inherited an incredible situation when we came to government and I have some questions that I ask myself all the time. For instance, why were the Liberals, with investments at $11 million, sending children with eating disorders to the United States, rather than building continuums of care here in the province? In 2010, there was a report from the standing committee where there were recommendations that were made. How many of those recommendations were put into practice? Zero.

Speaking about the NDP, who stood beside them, 13% of Ontario mental health beds—9,645 hospital beds across the province—were closed under their leadership—

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

Housing

Mr. Sheref Sabawy: Ontario’s population is projected to grow by as much as six million over the next two decades, with the greater Toronto area experiencing the most significant increase. According to the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corp., Ontario has seen over 7,200 housing starts for October. While this is a positive development, more needs to be done to help reach our goal of building 1.5 million homes in the coming decade. Can the Associate Minister of Housing please share what our government is doing to increase housing construction in our province?

Hon. Michael Parsa: I want to thank my honourable colleague the member for Mississauga–Erin Mills for the question and the great work that he does on behalf of his constituents.

It’s no secret that a lot is currently at stake with the global economic markets. Inflation is high and food prices have skyrocketed out of control around the world. However, when it comes to housing, we are doing everything we can to deliver on the promise that we made to Ontarians. We have taken important steps forward through legislation like strong mayors, the More Homes Built Faster Act and the Better Municipal Governance Act to get shovels in the ground faster than ever before.

To give an example, we have removed development charges for affordable housing units and provided discounts for rental housing options because we are committed to solving the housing crisis. We believe every single Ontarian deserves to have a home.

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

Mr. Sheref Sabawy: Thank you to the associate minister for the answer. It is great to hear how our government is taking decisive action by removing unnecessary barriers and excessive red tape that is delaying further housing construction.

While the leadership we have shown is encouraging, the people of my riding are concerned about their ability to own a home in their local communities and neighbourhoods. They want to see all levels of government working together to address this issue. Once again to the Associate Minister of Housing: How is our government providing immediate support for Ontarians looking for a new home?

1140

Hon. Michael Parsa: Again, I thank my colleague for the question. The short answer is, yes, we are in a housing crisis, so we have to look at existing homes and structures so that we can provide more relief to Ontarians. Ontario is expected to grow by more than two million people by 2031, so all options are on the table that will help us add more existing housing supply.

We are already looking at options by introducing as-of-right zoning. Ontarians are now able to create and rent up to three units in their existing home. This will not only add to our provincial housing supply, but will also help pay for the high interest rates Ontarians and others around the world are forced to pay.

We will continue to look for other solutions that will help us add more homes to the market and help us build 1.5 million homes across the province. As we’ve said time and time again, letting Ontarians down, on this side and in the middle there, is not an option.

Employment standards

Ms. Peggy Sattler: My question is to the Premier. Health care workers are urging MPPs to support my bill, the Stay Home If You Are Sick Act, to give Ontario workers 10 permanent paid sick days. This government’s temporary three COVID-related days to last over a pandemic that will soon be entering its third year are doing nothing to address the health care crisis that is overwhelming our pediatric hospitals. What would help are 10 permanent sick days to enable low-wage workers to stay home if their child is ill, perhaps with RSV, without losing their paycheques.

Will this government listen to advice from health care workers and vote to pass my bill today?

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The Minster of Long-Term Care and government House leader.

Hon. Paul Calandra: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Look, the honourable member knows that private members—

Interjection: We can’t hear you.

Hon. Paul Calandra: I’ve never been accused of not being able to be heard before. That’s a first.

The member knows that, of course, members are free to decide on any of the private members’ bills, and after question period, I’m sure members will make the decision on the bill put forward by the opposition House leader.

At the same time, Mr. Speaker, as you will know, this government was one of the first governments in the entire country to protect workers’ jobs during COVID. We also, thanks to the Premier, brought in a billion-dollar program to ensure that workers who were impacted during COVID were protected and had a nationwide-leading sick day program at the same time. We’re very proud of the record, and it is one of the reasons that we did so well during COVID.

The people of the province of Ontario ensured that we got through this together and we’ll continue to work with them and with all of those front-line heroes.

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

Ms. Peggy Sattler: Again to the Premier: This government’s record is nothing to be proud of. They cut the two paid sick days that workers had in Ontario.

Ontario is now falling behind other jurisdictions that are implementing permanent paid sick days. British Columbia has legislated five paid sick days. Federally regulated workers will soon have access to 10 paid sick days. Governments are doing this because they know that permanent paid sick days are good for workers, good for the economy and good for public health.

This government could finally show that “working for workers” is more than just an empty slogan by passing my bill to legislate 10 paid sick days. Will this government do that?

Hon. Paul Calandra: Again, this was a government that led the way in terms of protecting workers during the pandemic. Of course, we still do have paid sick days. The Premier was the one who led the federation, ensuring that the federal government participated in our nationwide-leading sick day program.

You know what else is good for workers, Speaker? Jobs. Jobs are good for workers. That is why the investments that this government is making—later on today, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing has a bill that we will be voting on which will bring over 1.5 million homes to the people of the province of Ontario. That includes good jobs for people who will be building the 1.5 million homes.

If you look at what the economy has been able to do, even despite COVID we are leading the nation in terms of job creation. We’ve brought back all of those jobs that the Liberals lost in their time in office—over 300,000 jobs that need to be filled.

Jobs are good for workers, and we’re going to continue to fight for those workers each and every day.

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

Visitors

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The Minister of Red Tape Reduction has informed me that he has a point of order, and I recognize him.

Hon. Parm Gill: I just want to take a moment and introduce Donna Danielli, our school trustee for wards 1 and 2 from Milton. Welcome to the Legislature. Thank you for your leadership.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): The member for Brampton West on a point of order.

Mr. Amarjot Sandhu: I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome Kathy McDonald, school trustee from wards 3 and 4 in Brampton.

Deferred Votes

More Homes Built Faster Act, 2022 / Loi de 2022 visant à accélérer la construction de plus de logements

Deferred vote on the motion that the question now be put on the motion for third reading of the following bill:

Bill 23, An Act to amend various statutes, to revoke various regulations and to enact the Supporting Growth and Housing in York and Durham Regions Act, 2022 / Projet de loi 23, Loi modifiant diverses lois, abrogeant divers règlements et édictant la Loi de 2022 visant à soutenir la croissance et la construction de logements dans les régions de York et de Durham.

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

The division bells rang from 1145 to 1150.

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

On November 23, 2022, Mr. Clark moved third reading of Bill 23, An Act to amend various statutes, to revoke various regulations and to enact the Supporting Growth and Housing in York and Durham Regions Act, 2022.

On November 24, 2022, Mr. Quinn moved that the question be now put.

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

Ayes

Anand, Deepak
Babikian, Aris
Bailey, Robert
Barnes, Patrice
Bethlenfalvy, Peter
Bouma, Will
Bresee, Ric
Byers, Rick
Calandra, Paul
Cho, Raymond Sung Joon
Cho, Stan
Clark, Steve
Coe, Lorne
Crawford, Stephen
Cuzzetto, Rudy
Dixon, Jess
Dowie, Andrew
Dunlop, Jill
Flack, Rob
Fullerton, Merrilee
Gallagher Murphy, Dawn
Ghamari, Goldie
Gill, Parm
Grewal, Hardeep Singh
Hardeman, Ernie

Harris, Mike
Hogarth, Christine
Holland, Kevin
Jones, Sylvia
Jones, Trevor
Jordan, John
Kanapathi, Logan
Ke, Vincent
Kerzner, Michael S.
Khanjin, Andrea
Leardi, Anthony
Lecce, Stephen
Lumsden, Neil
Martin, Robin
McGregor, Graham
Mulroney, Caroline
Oosterhoff, Sam
Pang, Billy
Parsa, Michael
Piccini, David
Pierre, Natalie
Pirie, George
Quinn, Nolan
Rae, Matthew
Rasheed, Kaleed

Rickford, Greg
Riddell, Brian
Romano, Ross
Sabawy, Sheref
Sandhu, Amarjot
Sarkaria, Prabmeet Singh
Sarrazin, Stéphane
Saunderson, Brian
Skelly, Donna
Smith, Dave
Smith, David
Smith, Graydon
Smith, Laura
Smith, Todd
Surma, Kinga
Tangri, Nina
Thanigasalam, Vijay
Thompson, Lisa M.
Tibollo, Michael A.
Triantafilopoulos, Effie J.
Wai, Daisy
Williams, Charmaine A.
Yakabuski, John

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

Nays

Andrew, Jill
Armstrong, Teresa J.
Begum, Doly
Bell, Jessica
Burch, Jeff
Collard, Lucille
Fife, Catherine
French, Jennifer K.
Gates, Wayne

Gélinas, France
Glover, Chris
Gretzky, Lisa
Harden, Joel
Karpoche, Bhutila
Kernaghan, Terence
Mamakwa, Sol
McMahon, Mary-Margaret
Pasma, Chandra

Rakocevic, Tom
Sattler, Peggy
Schreiner, Mike
Stevens, Jennifer (Jennie)
Stiles, Marit
Tabuns, Peter
Vanthof, John
West, Jamie
Wong-Tam, Kristyn

The Deputy Clerk (Mr. Trevor Day): The ayes are 73; the nays are 27.

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

Mr. Clark has moved third reading of Bill 23, An Act to amend various statutes, to revoke various regulations and to enact the Supporting Growth and Housing in York and Durham Regions Act, 2022.

Is it the pleasure of the House that the motion carry? I heard some noes.

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

All those opposed will please say “nay.”

In my opinion, the ayes have it.

The division bells rang from 1155 to 1156.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): On November 23, 2022, Mr. Clark moved third reading of Bill 23, An Act to amend various statutes, to revoke various regulations and to enact the Supporting Growth and Housing in York and Durham Regions Act, 2022.

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

Ayes

Anand, Deepak
Babikian, Aris
Bailey, Robert
Barnes, Patrice
Bethlenfalvy, Peter
Bouma, Will
Bresee, Ric
Byers, Rick
Calandra, Paul
Cho, Raymond Sung Joon
Cho, Stan
Clark, Steve
Coe, Lorne
Crawford, Stephen
Cuzzetto, Rudy
Dixon, Jess
Dowie, Andrew
Dunlop, Jill
Flack, Rob
Ford, Doug
Fullerton, Merrilee
Gallagher Murphy, Dawn
Ghamari, Goldie
Gill, Parm
Grewal, Hardeep Singh

Hardeman, Ernie
Harris, Mike
Hogarth, Christine
Holland, Kevin
Jones, Sylvia
Jones, Trevor
Jordan, John
Kanapathi, Logan
Ke, Vincent
Kerzner, Michael S.
Khanjin, Andrea
Leardi, Anthony
Lecce, Stephen
Lumsden, Neil
Martin, Robin
McGregor, Graham
Mulroney, Caroline
Oosterhoff, Sam
Pang, Billy
Parsa, Michael
Piccini, David
Pierre, Natalie
Pirie, George
Quinn, Nolan
Rae, Matthew

Rasheed, Kaleed
Rickford, Greg
Riddell, Brian
Romano, Ross
Sabawy, Sheref
Sandhu, Amarjot
Sarkaria, Prabmeet Singh
Sarrazin, Stéphane
Saunderson, Brian
Skelly, Donna
Smith, Dave
Smith, David
Smith, Graydon
Smith, Laura
Smith, Todd
Surma, Kinga
Tangri, Nina
Thanigasalam, Vijay
Thompson, Lisa M.
Tibollo, Michael A.
Triantafilopoulos, Effie J.
Wai, Daisy
Williams, Charmaine A.
Yakabuski, John

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

Nays

Andrew, Jill
Armstrong, Teresa J.
Begum, Doly
Bell, Jessica
Bowman, Stephanie
Burch, Jeff
Collard, Lucille
Fife, Catherine
Fraser, John
French, Jennifer K.
Gates, Wayne

Gélinas, France
Glover, Chris
Gretzky, Lisa
Harden, Joel
Hsu, Ted
Karpoche, Bhutila
Kernaghan, Terence
Mamakwa, Sol
McMahon, Mary-Margaret
Pasma, Chandra
Rakocevic, Tom

Sattler, Peggy
Schreiner, Mike
Shamji, Adil
Stevens, Jennifer (Jennie)
Stiles, Marit
Tabuns, Peter
Vanthof, John
West, Jamie
Wong-Tam, Kristyn

The Deputy Clerk (Mr. Trevor Day): The ayes are 74; the nays are 31.

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

Be it resolved that the bill do now pass and be entitled as in the motion.

Third reading agreed to.

Stay Home If You Are Sick Act, 2022 / Loi de 2022 permettant aux employés malades de rester chez eux

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

Bill 4, An Act to amend the Employment Standards Act, 2000 with respect to paid leave / Projet de loi 4, Loi modifiant la Loi de 2000 sur les normes d’emploi en ce qui concerne les congés payés.

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

The division bells rang from 1200 to 1201.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): On November 24, 2022, Ms. Sattler moved second reading of Bill 4, An Act to amend the Employment Standards Act, 2000 with respect to paid leave.

All those in favour of the motion will please rise and remain standing until recognized by the Clerk.

Ayes

Andrew, Jill
Armstrong, Teresa J.
Begum, Doly
Bell, Jessica
Bowman, Stephanie
Burch, Jeff
Collard, Lucille
Fife, Catherine
Fraser, John
French, Jennifer K.
Gates, Wayne

Gélinas, France
Glover, Chris
Gretzky, Lisa
Harden, Joel
Hsu, Ted
Karpoche, Bhutila
Kernaghan, Terence
Mamakwa, Sol
McMahon, Mary-Margaret
Pasma, Chandra
Rakocevic, Tom

Sattler, Peggy
Schreiner, Mike
Shamji, Adil
Stevens, Jennifer (Jennie)
Stiles, Marit
Tabuns, Peter
Vanthof, John
West, Jamie
Wong-Tam, Kristyn

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

Nays

Anand, Deepak
Babikian, Aris
Bailey, Robert
Barnes, Patrice
Bethlenfalvy, Peter
Bouma, Will
Bresee, Ric
Byers, Rick
Calandra, Paul
Cho, Raymond Sung Joon
Cho, Stan
Clark, Steve
Coe, Lorne
Crawford, Stephen
Cuzzetto, Rudy
Dixon, Jess
Dowie, Andrew
Dunlop, Jill
Flack, Rob
Ford, Doug
Fullerton, Merrilee
Gallagher Murphy, Dawn
Ghamari, Goldie
Gill, Parm
Grewal, Hardeep Singh

Hardeman, Ernie
Harris, Mike
Hogarth, Christine
Holland, Kevin
Jones, Sylvia
Jones, Trevor
Jordan, John
Kanapathi, Logan
Ke, Vincent
Kerzner, Michael S.
Khanjin, Andrea
Leardi, Anthony
Lecce, Stephen
Lumsden, Neil
Martin, Robin
McGregor, Graham
Mulroney, Caroline
Oosterhoff, Sam
Pang, Billy
Parsa, Michael
Piccini, David
Pierre, Natalie
Pirie, George
Quinn, Nolan
Rae, Matthew

Rasheed, Kaleed
Rickford, Greg
Riddell, Brian
Romano, Ross
Sabawy, Sheref
Sandhu, Amarjot
Sarkaria, Prabmeet Singh
Sarrazin, Stéphane
Saunderson, Brian
Skelly, Donna
Smith, Dave
Smith, David
Smith, Graydon
Smith, Laura
Smith, Todd
Surma, Kinga
Tangri, Nina
Thanigasalam, Vijay
Thompson, Lisa M.
Tibollo, Michael A.
Triantafilopoulos, Effie J.
Wai, Daisy
Williams, Charmaine A.
Yakabuski, John

The Deputy Clerk (Mr. Trevor Day): The ayes are 31; the nays are 74.

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

Second reading negatived.

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

The House recessed from 1204 to 1300.

Introduction of Bills

Early Years and Child Care Worker Advisory Commission Act, 2022 / Loi de 2022 sur la Commission consultative des préposés aux services pour la petite enfance et la garde d’enfants

Ms. Karpoche moved first reading of the following bill:

Bill 49, An Act respecting the establishment of an Early Years and Child Care Worker Advisory Commission / Projet de loi 49, Loi concernant la création de la Commission consultative des préposés aux services pour la petite enfance et la garde d’enfants.

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

First reading agreed to.

The Speaker (Hon. Ted Arnott): I’d like to invite the member to briefly explain her bill, if she wishes to do so.

Ms. Bhutila Karpoche: Speaker, thank you. The bill establishes the Early Years and Child Care Worker Advisory Commission, which will be composed of early years and child care workers, as well as organizations that support them and child care experts. The commission will develop recommendations on how to support the early years and child care workforce and address staffing shortages, including through increased wages, a salary scale, and decent work standard. The work also requires the Minister of Education to meet with the commission to discuss their recommendations.

Petitions

Social assistance

Mrs. Jennifer (Jennie) Stevens: I’m honoured to be able to present this petition to the House to raise social assistance rates.

“Whereas Ontario’s social assistance rates are well below Canada’s official Market Basket Measure poverty line and far from adequate to cover the rising cost of food and rent: $733 for individuals on OW and soon $1,227 for ODSP;

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

“Whereas the recent small budget increase of 5% for ODSP still leaves these citizens well below the poverty line, both they and those receiving the frozen OW rates continue struggling to live during a period of alarming inflation;

“Whereas the government of Canada recognized in its CERB program that a basic income of $2,000 per month was the standard support required by individuals who lost their employment during the pandemic;

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

I am honoured to affix my name to this. I will send it down to the table with page Kennedy.

Climate change

Ms. Doly Begum: I have a petition to the Ontario Legislative Assembly for a meaningful climate action plan.

“Whereas our planet is undergoing significant warming with adverse consequences for health, for agriculture, for infrastructure and our children’s future;

“Whereas the costs of inaction are severe, such as extreme weather events causing flooding and drought;

“Whereas Canada has signed the Paris accord which commits us to acting to keep temperature rise under 1.5 degrees Celsius;

“We, the undersigned, call upon the government of Ontario to develop GHC reduction targets based on science that will meet our Paris commitment, an action plan to meet those targets and annual reporting on progress on meeting the targets....”

Speaker, I fully support this petition. I will affix my signature to it and give it to page Mabel to give to the Clerks.

Climate change

Mr. Joel Harden: “Petition to the Ontario Legislative Assembly:

“For Meaningful Climate Action Withdraw Bill 23.

“Whereas our planet is undergoing significant warming with adverse consequences for health, for agriculture, for infrastructure and our children’s future;

“Whereas the costs of inaction are severe, such as extreme weather events causing flooding and drought;

“Whereas Canada has signed the Paris accord which commits us to acting to keep temperature rise under 1.5 degrees Celsius;

“We, the undersigned, call upon the government of Ontario to withdraw Bill 23 and to create a new bill to meet our housing needs that is compatible with protecting the greenbelt, creating affordable housing in the current urban boundaries, and meeting our climate targets.”

Speaker, I’m happy to sign this. I’ll be sending it with page Yusuf to the Clerks’ table.

Climate change

MPP Jill Andrew: “Petition to the Ontario Legislative Assembly.

“For Meaningful Climate Action Withdraw Bill 23.

“Whereas our planet is undergoing significant warming with adverse consequences for health, for agriculture, for infrastructure and our children’s future;

“Whereas the costs of inaction are severe, such as extreme weather events causing flooding and drought;

“Whereas Canada has signed the Paris accord which commits us to acting to keep temperature rise under 1.5 degrees Celsius;

I couldn’t agree more with this petition. I’ve affixed my signature and will hand it over to Havana for the Clerks.

Climate change

Ms. Bhutila Karpoche: I’d like to thank Leadnow for sending these petitions in. This one reads:

“For Meaningful Climate Action Withdraw Bill 23.

“Whereas our planet is undergoing significant warming with adverse consequences for health, for agriculture, for infrastructure and our children’s future;

“Whereas the costs of inaction are severe, such as extreme weather events causing flooding and drought;

“Whereas Canada has signed the Paris accord which commits us to acting to keep temperature rise under 1.5 degrees Celsius;

I fully support this petition and will affix my signature to it.

Employment standards

Ms. Peggy Sattler: I have a petition that reads as follows:

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas there is overwhelming evidence to show that paid sick leave significantly reduces the spread of infectious disease, promotes preventive health care and reduces health care system costs; and

“Whereas 60% of Ontario workers do not have access to paid sick days, and therefore must sacrifice income to stay home if they are sick; and

“Whereas low-wage and precarious workers who can least afford to miss pay are the most likely to be denied paid sick days; and

“Whereas employers benefit when sick workers can afford to stay home, limiting the spread of illness to co-workers and customers, and allowing workers to recover faster; and

“Whereas during an infectious disease emergency, it is unreasonable and dangerous to public health to make workers choose between protecting their communities and providing for their families; and

“Whereas mandating employers to provide paid sick leave through the Employment Standards Act ensures that workers have seamless, uninterrupted access to their pay; ...

“Therefore we, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to immediately provide workers with 10 annual employer-paid days of personal emergency leave and 14 days of paid leave in the case of an infectious disease emergency.”

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

Climate change

Mr. Terence Kernaghan: I would like to thank Leadnow for collecting these petitions.

“For Meaningful Climate Action Withdraw Bill 23.

“Whereas our planet is undergoing significant warming with adverse consequences for health, for agriculture, for infrastructure and our children’s future;

“Whereas the costs of inaction are severe, such as extreme weather events causing flooding and drought;

“Whereas Canada has signed the Paris accord which commits us to acting to keep temperature rise under 1.5 degrees Celsius;

I fully support this petition. I will affix my signature and deliver it with page Yusuf to the Clerks.

Health care

Ms. Doly Begum: I have a petition here to repeal Bill 124:

“Petition to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas Bill 124 caps salary increases at 1% at a time when inflation and interest rates are at historic highs;

“Whereas the nursing crisis has compromised patient safety and the functioning of our health system;

“Whereas emergency rooms are closing and even more ICUs are now at risk of having to close because of a health care staffing shortage;

“Therefore we, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to repeal Bill 124 as a step to recruit, retain and return nurses to the health care system, and allow for fair wages for nurses and health care workers.”

I fully support this petition, will affix my signature to it and give it to page Oriana to give to the Clerks.

Health care

MPP Jill Andrew: This is entitled “Stop Ford’s Health Care Privatization Plan.” I would like to thank the community members from St. Paul’s and across Ontario for signing this petition.

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas Ontarians should get health care based on need—not the size of their wallet;

“Whereas” the Premier and the health minister “say they’re planning to privatize parts of health care;

“Whereas privatization will bleed nurses, doctors and PSWs out of our public hospitals, making the health care crisis worse;

“Whereas privatization always ends with patients getting a bill;

“Therefore we, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to immediately stop all plans to further privatize Ontario’s health care system, and fix the crisis in health care by:

“—repealing Bill 124 and recruiting, retaining and respecting doctors, nurses and PSWs with better pay and better working conditions;

“—licensing tens of thousands of internationally educated nurses and other health care professionals already in Ontario, who wait years and pay thousands to have their credentials certified;

“—making education and training free or low-cost for nurses, doctors and other health care professionals;

“—incentivizing doctors and nurses to choose to live and work in northern Ontario;

“—funding hospitals to have enough nurses on every shift, on every ward.”

I thank our community for this petition. I have affixed my signature and will hand it over to Kennedy for the Clerks.

Health care

Ms. Bhutila Karpoche: This petition is titled “Stop” the “Health Care Privatization Plan.” It reads:

“To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

“Whereas Ontarians should get health care based on need—not the size of your wallet;

“Whereas” the Conservative government “say they’re planning to privatize parts of health care;