Assemblée législative de l'Ontario

The House met at 1330.

Prayers.

MEMBERS' STATEMENTS

TAX EXEMPTION

Mr Bernard Grandmaître (Ottawa East): Last week the standing committee on regulations and private bills approved Bill Pr27, An Act respecting the City of Ottawa. This legislation allows Ottawa's new triple A baseball stadium to be exempt from local municipal taxes. The exemption is based on the fact that the stadium is already being built with substantial municipal and provincial funding. Adding municipal taxes to the stadium's operating costs would just tax back this same financial assistance.

I'm glad the committee unanimously approved the legislation, and I note that the Minister of Municipal Affairs, who is also government House leader, is supporting the legislation as well. Since he has acknowledged the importance of the bill, I would like to call upon the government House leader to move quickly to schedule the bill for third reading. I would also like to point out to the government that this kind of private legislation to provide property tax exemptions is awkward, bureaucratic and slow.

The minister said he supports Bill Pr27 because it represents a partnership. If the minister is serious about encouraging this kind of partnership, the government should bring forward general legislation providing municipalities the authority to directly implement their own tax exemptions. This would allow municipalities to respond quickly to the local projects they wish to support and would save the lengthy time and money involved in enacting this special legislation through the Legislature.

LEGAL FEES

Mr Allan K. McLean (Simcoe East): My statement concerns this government's move to penalize senior citizens, home buyers and women by increasing the cost of several civil court transactions. These fee increases became effective June 8 and were brought in by regulation without going through the legislative process. They hit hardest in the three areas where average people are most likely to use a lawyer: real estate and mortgage transactions; wills and estates; divorces and family matters.

A few examples of this backdoor tax hike, which was done with little notice and no debate, include a tripling of the fee for probating a will. Under the previous fee structure, people were charged $5 for every $1,000 of real estate. That has now changed to $5 per $1,000 for the first $50,000 and $15 per $1,000 for amounts over $50,000, with no maximum. For an estate worth $500,000, the probate fee goes to $7,000 from $2,500. This new probate fee amounts to a double whammy for families with assets they want to pass on to succeeding generations, because the provincial government is also considering imposing a new inheritance tax.

For an uncontested divorce, the cost of issuing a petition, serving it and setting it down has increased to $320 from $190. The cost of filing a claim has jumped to $125 from $75 and the cost to defend a claim has increased to $70 from $40. If you want to search a title from the previous owner, it goes to $11 from $4. Disgraceful backdoor politics.

ROGERS CABLE TV

Mr Gordon Mills (Durham East): In my 90-second time allotment I want to speak about Rogers Cable TV, and in particular the Oshawa branch managed by Mr Paul Coleman and Mr Terry McWade.

Virtually every day Rogers Cable TV provides free studio space and technical assistance to organizations and even to MPPs who need to communicate their message to the Rogers audience. In addition, Rogers Cantel Inc frequently brings high technology to good causes by making its cellular telephones and paging services available free of charge to charitable organizations.

Rogers companies employ 5,900 workers and all are keenly aware of their responsibility to the nation and to the communities where these employees live. In 1991 Rogers supported the United Way in 29 cities as well as 22 hospitals, 28 universities, 16 theatres and 11 symphony orchestras. They also assisted the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal, Junior Achievement of Canada, the Olympic Trust of Canada and the Canadian Conference of the Arts.

I would like to thank Rogers Cable TV for its support in particular to me, for broadcasting and producing my own weekly TV program, Talking it Over With Gord, which is seen across the region of Durham.

GOVERNMENT MEDIA POLICY

Mr Hans Daigeler (Nepean): During my visit to Sarnia last week, I learned that cabinet members have been ordered to call their area newspapers about the alleged negative reporting on the NDP's labour law reforms.

Here's my mock rendition of Marion Boyd's recent telephone conversation with southwestern newspapers: "Hello, this is the Minister of Community and Social Services. The NDP cabinet is being hard done by your newspaper. Now listen carefully. This is the script I want you to use on our labour law reform project."

At least for one paper this blatant NDP porridge was just too much to stomach. Here is what the Sarnia Observer wrote last Wednesday:

"Because Ms Boyd was only interested in reading the government's prepared statement on the labour law changes and attacking the media in general, she had to be coaxed into answering a few questions from an Observer reporter. And she became angry with the reporter who tried to interrupt her reading of the prepared statement to question her on specific points."

Surely even government backbenchers will be embarrassed by this clumsy attempt to polish the government's image on labour law reforms. As the Sarnia Observer said, "Rather than attacking the media and spoonfeeding Ontarians propaganda, the government should take a close, hard look at the legislation which has prompted this controversy."

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LANDFILL SITES

Mr W. Donald Cousens (Markham): Today I have introduced a resolution which will, I hope, make the Minister of the Environment wake up and smell the stench of garbage.

The New Democratic Party has sacrificed communities in the greater Toronto area for the future home of three 20-year dumps. Abusing its majority position, the NDP members, gleefully and with smiles on their faces, passed Bill 143 against the calls for more impact studies on the affected communities.

My resolution today is the first step in trying to turn a serious wrong into a right. The resolution calls for amendments to Bill 143 to allow for a more democratic process to take place in the selection of landfill sites. There are three reasons why:

First, the decision to prevent regions from looking outside the greater Toronto area for a landfill site is contrary to the intent of the Environmental Assessment Act, section 5(3). Second, the government has promised each person in Ontario the right to a full environmental assessment, including the right to review all the options pertaining to the disposal of waste. Finally, the government has failed to fully examine the impact of a landfill site on the regions in the greater Toronto area.

Bill 143 must be challenged and this time the people must be heard. Maybe now the smiles on the new dump party backbenchers will be wiped off their faces. No dumps please.

LABOUR DISPUTE

Mr George Mammoliti (Yorkview): I would like to share an experience with the honourable members of this Legislature. Last Friday I paid a visit to the striking workers of the Toronto Star. I picketed with them actually. Yes, I picketed with the workers who belong to the Southern Ontario Newspaper Guild.

I am very glad to have had a firsthand view of what the feelings are among the workers out there on the picket line. As you can well imagine, tension is high and emotions run easily out of control. The reason: replacement workers, known to some as scab workers. The use of replacement workers not only creates the bitterness I witnessed; it lengthens strikes, it makes the bargaining process less effective and can sometimes lead to violence.

The experience reminded me of how very proud I am that our government is attempting to put an end to this situation and situations like this one. The proposed amendments to the Ontario Labour Relations Act are very much needed to build a stronger, more competitive Ontario. We need to reduce conflict and confrontation in labour-management relations. The amendments, honourable members, especially limiting the use of replacement workers, will do just that.

LEADER OF THE THIRD PARTY

Ms Dianne Poole (Eglinton): The leader of the Conservative Party, Mike Harris, has been calling himself a tax fighter. However, the record shows that he is not a tax fighter and in fact has been a major tax booster.

From 1981 to 1984, Mike Harris supported the Conservative government in 16 tax increases totalling more than $1 billion. What is extraordinary about these tax increases is that they came during a recession. Yes, the Tories burdened us with higher taxes during the early 1980s, a period when we were least able to afford it.

Part of the reason we are so overtaxed in this province stems from the major tax hikes of the Conservative government. This is the same Tory government that left us with an annual $2.6-billion deficit when it was turfed out in 1985. This same man is trying to tell the people of the province that he's our champion, fighting tax increases on our behalf. Spare us the rhetoric.

Mike Harris supported increases in personal income tax, OHIP premiums, beer taxes, fuel taxes, tobacco taxes, the retail sales tax and the corporate income tax. He even supported a 5% surcharge on Ontario personal income tax, and today he has the gall to call himself a tax fighter. The leader of the Conservatives has perpetrated a sham. Far from being the tax fighter he makes himself out to be, Mike Harris is a tax hiker.

UNIVERSITY CROWN FOUNDATIONS

Mrs Dianne Cunningham (London North): I was pleased to learn this morning that the Minister of Colleges and Universities announced he will be introducing legislation this afternoon that will allow the government to establish crown foundations.

As you are aware, Mr Speaker, I have been a strong advocate for crown foundations and as recently as June 1 I asked the minister to introduce this legislation as soon as possible. Universities, their students and faculty are facing many challenges. There is a shortage of faculty, buildings are deteriorating, classrooms are overcrowded and facilities are outdated.

Ontario's universities make a major contribution to this province's and the country's competitiveness. They play a vital role in the development of highly skilled human resources. Without the ongoing resources to produce a highly skilled workforce and advanced research facilities, Ontario and Canada will be unable to compete in today's global market.

Crown foundations will increase the incentive for the private sector to make unique and outstanding charitable contributions to Ontario universities. As this bill proceeds through the legislative process, I look forward to working with the Ministry of Colleges and Universities to ensure the concerns of the universities are properly dealt with and that the implementation of the crown foundations is efficient and effective.

I am certain the ministry does not want to create yet another layer of bureaucracy. Officials from the University of Northern British Columbia informed us that its board of directors are all voluntary positions.

On a final note, I would like to congratulate the universities for their hard work in supporting the minister in his dedication to this matter.

INTERNATIONAL FREEDOM FESTIVAL

Mr George Dadamo (Windsor-Sandwich): It gives me great pleasure to stand in the House today and announce the upcoming celebration of the 1992 International Freedom Festival for the city of Windsor. The Windsor-Detroit International Freedom Festival is North America's largest international festival. As well, the festival is slated for June 24 through July 5 in Windsor and Detroit.

Nineteen ninety-two will be a special year for the freedom festival as Canada celebrates its 125th birthday and Windsor celebrates its centennial. One of the highlights this year will be the Canada Day parade, led by the grand marshal, Windsorite Chris Lori, who represented Canada at the winter Olympics in Albertville in bob-sledding.

The International Freedom Festival offers a wide variety of events for the whole family to enjoy, and best of all it is free. The annual freedom antique car show and parade will be held featuring the finest vintage cars from Canada and the United States. That is next Sunday. Finally, on July 1, it is expected that 1.4 million people will line the shores of Windsor and Detroit to view a spectacular fireworks display.

Let me reiterate by saying the International Freedom Festival is the world's largest two-nation birthday party and it runs from June 24 to July 5 in Windsor. Your invitation to see Windsor at its proudest moment awaits you.

STATEMENTS BY THE MINISTRY

RACE RELATIONS

Hon Bob Rae (Premier and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs): I am pleased to report to the Legislature and the people of Ontario my government's positive response to Stephen Lewis's recommendations on race relations.

Mr Lewis is in the gallery. I want to thank him very much for his work and for his report. The extent of his consultations was truly remarkable given the very short time available. He met with many individuals and groups, sought out forums to sit down with young people to hear their concerns and ideas for change and talked to representatives of the police and to countless others.

I would like to add my thanks to all those people from school trustees to black community leaders and police chiefs who took the time to meet Mr Lewis, but I particularly thank those young Ontarians who opened their minds and hearts to Stephen Lewis for us. I am also grateful to the team of people who worked with Mr Lewis on this challenging project.

Stephen Lewis presents the government and the province with a compelling call to action against racism, to respond to the frustrations and the fears of mothers, fathers, sons and daughters in visible minority communities and to build on our shared belief in fairness so that Ontario stands proudly for racial equality.

Prejudice and discrimination have no place in Ontario. To that end, the government agrees we must move now on a comprehensive range of initiatives. The government must address the elements Mr Lewis identified in his report: jobs, the criminal justice system, education, community development and institutional change. It is a tall order, but together we can succeed.

Mr Lewis's action plan fits within and enhances Ontario's agenda for social justice and economic renewal. He has set out some tough deadlines. I am determined to work with all MPPs and the community to respond, and respond now. We have already announced a significant increase in our summer jobs for youth programs. Accepting the recommendations of Zanana Akande, my parliamentary assistant, Ontario now has the most extensive summer youth employment program in its history.

I share the Minister of Citizenship's pride that she will introduce the Employment Equity Act before the Legislature adjourns for the summer. Mr Lewis has identified employment equity as a fundamental "affirmation of opportunity and access" for visible minorities in Ontario. The legislation should be firmly in place by early 1993, after a full debate in the House and discussion in the province.

As the second largest employer in the province, the government accepts the duty and responsibility to provide leadership for all Ontario employers. The Chairman of Management Board and I have made it clear that there must be measurable progress on employment equity in the Ontario public service.

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Another important measure for equality in employment identified by Mr Lewis is to ensure access to trades and professions for those Ontarians trained outside Canada. The Minister of Citizenship will, by October 1, 1992, present a strategy to facilitate access for such individuals to work in their chosen fields in Ontario.

We must also ensure that appointments to the Ontario Training and Adjustment Board meet the government's equity objectives. The Minister of Colleges and Universities wrote the OTAB labour market partners on June 11, emphasizing, "Government requires that both business and labour nominees reflect the diversity of Ontario, with appropriate representation of equity groups." This message will be reinforced at the OTAB round table this week.

By breaking down barriers for individuals with training and experience from outside Canada, and by making sure that visible minorities take their place at the table establishing Ontario's centrepiece for labour market training, we are taking important steps forward for equality and for competitiveness.

Fairness and the perception of fairness in the criminal justice system are key to harmonious race relations. Mr Lewis has set out a demanding timetable. His suggestions encompass the completion of unfinished business, speeding up ongoing initiatives and making existing institutions more responsive and more effective. I take optimism from the initial positive responses to Mr Lewis's recommendations from many different sections of the community.

My colleague the Solicitor General will be releasing the draft regulation on safety and the use of force this afternoon, as promised last month. He intends to have the new rules for police accountability, training and the use of alternatives to lethal force in place by September 1, 1992.

Today I am pleased to announce that Clare Lewis, at the request of the Solicitor General, has agreed to reconstitute the Race Relations and Policing Task Force, as recommended by Mr Lewis. While significant achievements have been made on over 60% of the task force's recommendations, including employment equity for police services, it is important to complete the work now. That work will start soon.

The Solicitor General and the Attorney General will be working closely with the Minister of Citizenship to respond this summer and fall to the other criminal justice recommendations, including monitoring and race relations audits, the mandate of the police complaints commissioner and the very significant matter of enhancing police training.

The special investigations unit has already been given new resources by this government. We are committed to improving the SIU's organization and ensuring its independence in every respect. A new reporting mechanism will be established that will remove it from within the Ministry of the Solicitor General.

We are working now to find the most effective method to examine those parts of the criminal justice system which have been overlooked in past inquiries. As police and community members alike acknowledge, our scrutiny must go beyond policing to an evaluation of the courts and the corrections system. The cabinet will consider the most practical and effective options right away and will have an answer to this recommendation of Mr Lewis's before the end of the summer. Whatever we do must be focused and oriented to action. We don't need another study simply for the sake of a study.

If we are to truly tackle racism, education from elementary school to post-secondary institutions must enhance and sustain opportunity and equality for all of Ontario's children and youth. I was particularly struck by Mr Lewis's observation that a report prepared by students themselves for the Toronto Board of Education revealed, "It's as if virtually nothing had changed for visible minority kids in the school system over the last ten years," and I share the young people's frustration at the slow pace of change.

Mr Lewis has challenged the Minister of Education and the Minister of Colleges and Universities with an ambitious agenda, which touches on everything from what is taught to who is doing the teaching to who is accountable. My parliamentary assistant the member for St Andrew-St Patrick is continuing her work on curriculum revision, together with the Minister of Education, and she's determined to proceed quickly.

Proposals to attract and enrol more visible minority candidates in the province's faculties of education, received by both ministers last month, will move ahead. Working with the province's faculties of education, we want to see a difference in future years' enrolment.

The Minister of Education has already announced changes to strengthen our commitment to racial equality in education. The key is to see that what gets recommended in reports to ministers and boards of education starts really happening in the classroom, and that is the frustration that's been expressed by so many.

Mr Lewis's call for an enhanced role for the Ontario Anti-Racism Secretariat and for a stronger bond between the government and racial minority communities makes good sense. On these questions in particular, Mr Lewis notes that he is more concerned about implementing the goals of his recommendations than adherence to exact wording. The objective of these recommendations is to ensure that the Anti-Racism Secretariat is an effective, powerful voice and to provide a new focus for community access to, and accountability in, cabinet.

In 30 days, Mr Speaker, Mr Lewis identified many other issues he placed under the heading of community development: questions around housing, culture, health and social services, minority businesses, youth and empowerment. Our challenge is to translate these concerns into an agenda which can yield results. The Minister of Citizenship and the Ontario Anti-Racism Secretariat will work with representatives of minority communities to do that. This will clearly require new resources, and those who have served with cabinet will know what I mean when I say that. They will also know what I mean when I say that yesterday I asked treasury board to find these resources and to clearly identify the offsets, since I want to clearly state to the House whatever we do has to be done within our current means.

I have asked the Minister of Citizenship and the Attorney General to take the lead responsibility for implementing the government's overall response to Mr Lewis's report. They will be supported by their colleagues the Solicitor General, the Minister of Education, the Minister of Colleges and Universities and my parliamentary assistant the member for St Andrew-St Patrick. We've established a steering committee of deputy ministers, cochaired by the deputy secretary to cabinet and the director of the Anti-Racism Secretariat. The ministers will make a progress report to the Legislature early in the fall sitting.

I agree with Mr Lewis that Ontario has an opportunity to make a real breakthrough. At its best, Ontario has always reflected a belief in fairness and in social and economic justice. Mr Speaker, I say through you, to all the people of Ontario, to black families, to families of all colours, of all creeds and most importantly to the young people of this province, we can, we must and we will act to make a difference and build a better Ontario.

POLICE USE OF FORCE

Hon Allan Pilkey (Solicitor General): I'm pleased to inform members of this House that I rise today to announce the release of a draft regulation under the Police Services Act on safety and the use of force by police officers. I am fulfilling the commitment I made last month to release a draft regulation for public consultation. At that time I identified three issues around which the government would be seeking input on the regulation: (1) an accountability mechanism to monitor the use of force by police, (2) comprehensive training for officers to ensure we address concerns regarding public and officer safety, and (3) alternatives to the use of lethal force.

The government's objectives are public and officer safety. I am confident that the draft regulation we are releasing today will help achieve that objective by minimizing instances where police must resort to the use of lethal force.

The use of force by police is an issue of concern to everyone in Ontario. A key goal of community policing is greater public confidence and trust in the police. This regulation will enhance that confidence and that trust.

I wish as well to acknowledge the work done by Stephen Lewis. In his report to the Premier, he emphasized the vital and urgent need for these amendments under the act. In Mr Lewis's words, "There seems to be an important consensus developing that police officers need much clearer guidelines about the use of force."

A balance is required between the legally authorized use of force by police and the need for police to clearly understand their public accountability for the use of their special authority.

In the area of police accountability, we are proposing provisions, including reporting requirements which clearly outline the circumstances in which an officer may use lethal force. Under these accountability mechanisms, officers are required to submit a report each time a firearm is drawn or discharged and whenever less-than-lethal weapons are used or other physical techniques are employed that result in injury to an individual.

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This accountability is not intended to place constraints on the police. I believe that accountability requirements such as the use of force reporting will be valuable tools that police services can use to monitor trends, identify problems and, more important, develop solutions through new policies and improved training. The key goal is greater officer and public safety.

Use of force training is the second focus of this draft regulation. It is essential to the development of proficient and responsible police officers. Currently, training is largely directed towards the technical care and use of firearms. The proposed regulation will place greater emphasis on judgement, theory, safety, legal requirements and practical proficiency.

The draft regulation also includes a requirement for upgraded recruitment training and annual requalification in the use of all force, including the use of a police firearm. Officers unable to meet the practical proficiency standard would be prohibited from carrying a firearm.

The third area that the proposed regulation addresses is the use of less-than-lethal force options. We must make available to police alternatives to lethal force to help reduce the possibility of preventable tragedies. All classes of less-than-lethal weapons used by police will be subject to ministry approval, standards and guidelines for their use.

The government believes that the regulation will provide clear direction to police officers on the use of force and sufficient means to perform their duties very effectively. The regulation I am introducing today will be more effective as well once the federal government acts on its promise and revises subsection 25(4) of the Criminal Code, the so-called "fleeing felon" provision. I have indicated in communications to both the federal Minister of Justice and my counterpart the federal Solicitor General that the current provision is far too broad and urgently requires amendment.

I am also announcing today proposed amendments to the police code of conduct regulations under the Police Services Act. A key principle of the act is the need for sensitivity to the pluralistic, multiracial and multicultural nature and character of our Ontario. The amendments make discriminatory behaviour an offence subject to internal discipline. These measures will ensure that police continue to serve the needs of all members of society.

I have also established a new committee on public and officer safety to review the proposed regulations and make recommendations on possible amendments. In addition, I welcome suggestions and comments from interested members of the public and the police on these particular matters. A position paper will be made available through my ministry.

The people of Ontario expect and deserve a high level of public safety and security. I believe these regulations will contribute substantially to that objective.

The Speaker (Hon David Warner): Statements by ministers? Responses. Official opposition.

Mr Murray J. Elston (Bruce): Before we get into statement time, might I ask, because of the nature of the very important material we've just been given by both the Premier and the Solicitor General, that we be allowed to have just a little more time to reply to these statements?

The Speaker: That would take unanimous agreement. Agreed?

Interjections: Agreed.

The Speaker: Agreed.

RESPONSES

RACE RELATIONS

Mrs Lyn McLeod (Leader of the Opposition): We appreciate the opportunity to have a few extra moments to be able to respond to what we believe is a most important report and therefore a significant set of statements being made in the House today.

I don't wish to carp, although I do have one lingering regret, that this report, which we had anticipated and in fact welcomed, had to be tabled by the government at a time when circumstances made it impossible for the Premier to make his statement and therefore delayed our ability to respond until this point in time. But having said that, we do welcome the report.

I want to begin my response by suggesting that the commitment of our party, and in fact the record of our party in government in responding to these very important issues of race relations and, in this instance most particularly, race relations in policing, I think is quite clear and is acknowledged in the report. Mr Lewis makes very clear that the Clare Lewis Race Relations and Policing Task Force represented a major breakthrough and was significant in beginning to respond to these very serious issues. While we were in government we had committed to the implementation of some 56 of the 57 recommendations in the Clare Lewis report, including the implementation of employment equity for police departments, the establishment of the special investigations unit and the provision of race relations for police officers.

Having said that, it is quite clear that much more needs to be done and there is no doubt that implementation needs to proceed. The report confirms the important next steps that must be taken. We do want to reiterate that we need not just study committees and not just new reports, but we need decisive action to ensure that institutions like our Ontario Human Rights Commission, the Ontario Anti-Racism Secretariat and in fact our justice system, do work more effectively.

There are many issues we could respond to in this report. I want to touch on one that is not mentioned in the statement or in the report which gives me some cause for concern, and that seems to be the absence of any reference to the continued emphasis on community policing. I believe it is universally recognized that the initiative of focusing on community policing has been one of the most significant, positive steps in bringing about a positive relationship between police and people in communities.

We recognize there are important resource questions involved in community policing, but it does concern us that the government, in making the statement today and in Mr Lewis tabling this report, in not recognizing that community policing must continue to be a focus, seems to be stepping back from this very important initiative. We would ask the government not to put this on a back burner and to recognize that it does need to be an important focus and it does need to be a focus for the government looking at redirection and prioritization of its resources.

I would note that there is a reference in the Premier's statement today to a further statement on access to trades and professions, a strategy report or status report perhaps, by October 1992 on this issue of access to trades and professions. I can't help but remind the government that this is a report which was commissioned by the previous government, again on an issue we felt was of great significance. That report, as we've noted on a number of different occasions, has been sitting on a shelf somewhere for approximately two years.

We do urge the government to proceed to look at the recommendations of the access to trades and professions report, because without practical support, the goals of employment equity which are so fundamentally important to the broader goals Mr Lewis has identified in his report simply cannot be achieved.

I would like to note that the employment equity initiatives this government has long promised are now to be introduced, according to the Premier's statement, in this spring session. We would have to acknowledge we're pleased that there is finally to be some action where for such a long time there seemed to have been mostly words and statements of intent.

I do have a concern I can't help but note, however, that we hope the work has actually been done to make sure that when this legislation is introduced, it is good, effective, workable legislation. It was only last week that the minister responsible for bringing in this legislation indicated publicly that only parts of the legislation had been taken to cabinet, although she did hope to be able to introduce it in the spring session. It was only last week that in the government House leader's indication of the legislation that would be before the House this spring there was no indication at all that employment equity legislation would be forthcoming.

The government's record in introducing complex legislation has not always been stellar. We note, for example, the more than 200 amendments in place for its advocacy and consent-to-treatment legislation. This legislation has been long awaited; it has been long promised. It's absolutely essential that it be legislation which is carefully developed and then very carefully considered.

Having noted those concerns, we do look forward to continued discussion and to very active pursuit of these critical issues. I would ask our critic for the Solicitor General to respond to other issues in the Premier's statement as well as to the statement of the Solicitor General.

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Mr Alvin Curling (Scarborough North): I too would like to commend Mr Stephen Lewis for his report. I have looked forward to this day more than any other day in the House because I know how important it is not only to the one sector of the community but to all citizens of Ontario. Mr Lewis has brought a lot of credibility to this issue. It is unfortunate that we have to seek an individual to bring credibility to an issue that affects us all, but having that individual within our community, I think it is appropriate that the Premier appointed such an individual.

I've stated from the beginning that it was not a difficult task Mr Lewis had; it was an easy task. All he had to do was go back to all the reports that were written before and say to the government of the day, "Do it." The last time I made a comment in the House, I was criticized by other members that it was rather partisan; not members in this House but outside, in the federal area. The names need not be mentioned. But it is important: If all citizens of this community, of this country, don't feel safe and feel part of this community, there is no way we will have a peaceful environment.

I am concerned about some of the areas in here, although Mr Lewis had made it, as he said, in an anecdotal manner. I've heard all these emotions put forward and feel the pain of that community, but the pain of that community is not only the pain of the black community. I think what the black community was saying to us all is that all members of this society will feel the pain of racism: those who give it and those who receive it. I'm glad Mr Lewis brought that forward.

I was disappointed in certain areas. I was extremely disappointed that he did not touch on the Ontario Human Rights Commission, an extremely important area, although he did say that he's leaving that to the Cornish report when it comes in, but I warned him, at the cost of his credibility, to emphasize how important it is, because we don't need all this employment equity, we don't need a lot of new laws. What we need is enforcement. Further than that, we need more than enforcement. We need it to be done immediately, and that is the aspect of where we wanted to go. We welcome any other suggestions he might give.

When I read that report -- and I want to say this as a citizen of Canada and of Ontario -- I almost felt that certain people in our society are like colonials, that somehow you report to the Premier and the government that all these citizens in that sector of the community need is this and they'll be all right. Again, as I emphasized, they did not ask for that for themselves. There are members of other communities, the Chinese and the South Asian community, who have appealed to me and said, "We hope the government of the day does not see this in that certain local sector." I am confident that the Premier, whom I know very well and who is quite concerned about all this, does not see it that way himself.

There are other areas of it. I will say to the Premier that if a cabinet committee is formed, I have concern if it's within the Ministry of Citizenship. The Attorney General would be much more appropriate. I want it to be seen that it's not a matter of citizenship, of minorities who want a cabinet committee on race relations; it's all people, those in the white community, those in the Asian community and those in the black community, so that they themselves have access to that power.

There's many areas I would like to have made some comment on. I would like to remind him that he made no mention in that report of the visible minority youth project report that was submitted in October 1989. It had precise and direct things to do that are extremely helpful. I know Mr Lewis, and I sat with him and said what an onerous job he had, to hear from all people in such a short time; quite a difficult task. However, I remind the Premier that if he could take another look at that, it would be quite helpful. I will send this over to him. With the number of reports he has, he may already have seen that, but I'll make sure it comes before him immediately.

I was glad to hear that employment equity is coming forward. I know the government of the day is already -- your Bill 172, sir, is sitting there just waiting to be introduced. When that comes forward, I know there will be a lively debate. I urge members on the government side to read it. It's a good document and it needs a lively debate. We welcome that. All citizens, Mr Premier, will be better off when we have a better race relations environment in this province.

POLICE USE OF FORCE

Mr Alvin Curling (Scarborough North): Now, for the few moments I have, I would like to direct the other part to the Solicitor General, who made his statement today. I'm extremely disappointed, Mr Solicitor General, that of the number of recommendations that were placed here today, you came forward with only one, and that's the use of force in regulation. Then you wrap yourself around Mr Lewis's recommendations and say, "We welcome that because he tells us to do that." We have been telling you over here for the last two years to do that.

Furthermore, I gather Mr Clare Lewis will be heading another task force on what it would be. He has already told us what to do. You know, this is fairly disappointing. Why put it back in his hands again? We are legislators. He said to us, "Do it." Now we have implemented almost 56 of the 57 recommendations. I'd like you, sir, to say to us which one you have not done since your government has been in power for two years. Tell us what you have done, because then if you have not done those, we are here, over on this side, prepared to help you to implement those.

I'm extremely disappointed on many other parts. One of the most important recommendations contains the solution of a transfer of the special investigations unit from the Solicitor General to the Attorney General. It is painful really that the SIU has not been able to fulfil its mandate in providing independent civil investigation into police actions.

The Solicitor General has done nothing to attempt to restore the SIU's credibility. It is extremely important that we have that and people look up to the SIU. We have complained about that in the House, constantly have asked questions, and sometimes we have been ridiculed because you felt we didn't know what we were saying.

Of course we welcome your announcement and we hope that many more announcements will be made in regard to the concerns we have. Again I just want to say that we are a great country, a great province and we have an opportunity to do just that without undertaking the partisan political attitude towards that. We would have a better society for all of that.

RACE RELATIONS

Mr Michael D. Harris (Nipissing): I know the member for Leeds-Grenville will want to respond briefly to the statement by the Solicitor General and I appreciate the opportunity to respond to the Premier's statement and, by way of response, deal with some of the points raised by Stephen Lewis in his letter dated June 9, 1992, addressed "Dear Bob."

First I want to make the point that no party in this House has the monopoly on concern for race relations and no party has the monopoly on concern for community safety.

Second, no members of this House want to see their fellow human beings denied the opportunity to meet their full potential. In that regard, I must say that I do not support those who advocate denying or suppressing one individual's opportunity in the interests of advancing another individual's opportunity. My caucus believes that every citizen must have an opportunity for advancement. However, we must be very careful that one individual's rights are not suppressed to advance the rights of another individual.

Third, as a member from northern Ontario with a name like Harris, I do not pretend to speak for the black community, for the Chinese community, for the Italian community or for many other communities in this province. However, as a legislator, as leader of my party, as a citizen of this very diverse province, I must and I do want to understand the concerns and the aspirations of all citizens and indeed of all groups within our society.

I know all citizens of Ontario want quality education for their children, economic opportunity for themselves and security for their person and their property. All citizens of this province, of all races and backgrounds, have a responsibility to understand the concerns of their fellow Ontarians. As a community we must work together to achieve these common goals.

Fourth, no racial group or ethnic group in society is immune from extremism from within. No ethnic group, race or creed represented in our diverse province does not have within it some of the ugly elements of racism. We must all be vigilant against racism in our communities, in our places of employment and in our social gatherings.

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Ontario and Canada are great places to live in, to work in, to raise a family in. It is all of us and our predecessors who have made it great and it is all of us who must guard against that which might destroy that greatness. If we face the problems that exist with honest and open commitment, we will continue to live up to that greatness.

This brings me to a very sensitive point that I raised with Mr Lewis when we met during the preparation of his letter to the Premier. We need a greater honesty in discussing the issue of racism and race relations. I pointed out to Mr Lewis that some have argued for the suppression of statistics with respect to crime in Ontario but many of these same people advocate the gathering of statistics for employment equity purposes.

I notice a passing reference to "the vexing question of racially based statistical data" on page 14 of Mr Lewis's letter. We can't keep tiptoeing around this issue.

The Globe and Mail editorial put it this way: "What then are the other causes of these problems? We do not know and we will never know as long as people like Mr Lewis put guilty self-flagellation over intellectual rigour and musty preconceptions over the search for facts."

I received a copy of a letter to the Premier this morning from Dr Ubale, Ontario's first race relations commissioner, a man who has dealt with this issue for many years. Dr Ubale puts it this way: "Unfortunately the fear of being misunderstood has frozen honest and frank debate in the area of race relations too long." He says: "It is time to stop making politically correct statements on this sensitive issue. What is politically correct may not be socially desirable." Those are Dr Ubale's comments.

Many have expressed to me the view that the problems of some of the new immigrant black communities in Toronto are as much a function of poverty, of lack of family and community support, as they are of racism. This makes the problem no less serious. Indeed these socioeconomic circumstances make the problems with racism that much more difficult to deal with. However, we must recognize all of the root causes, what they are and what makes the problems worse, before we can properly develop the solutions.

I've heard concern expressed that many of these problems will not be solved without the support and the leadership within the black community.

There are good stories to be told. I know the Black Business and Professional Association has worked hard to promote black role models. I have personal experience with the John Brooks Community Foundation and Scholarship Fund. Sheldon Taylor's black history exhibit is an effort that should be more widely acknowledged. There are good people doing good work within the black community. We should point to their success.

There are many identifiable members of Ontario society who I believe the Premier could have called upon other than Stephen Lewis. The Honourable Lincoln Alexander for one comes to mind.

I have met with representatives of the black educators. Education is an important building block to give all children the best opportunity to succeed in society. The Toronto Board of Education has done much on the race relations front. We can do more but teachers cannot do it all alone. They need the support of the parents and of the community.

I have advocated dozens of times in this House and elsewhere for breakfast programs for children in school. No matter what a child's skin colour, she or he can't learn if her or his stomach is empty.

With respect to policing, I and my party are very supportive of the police and of the very difficult job that we ask them to do. We must deal with racism wherever it is. But we must also remember the role of the police is to protect our citizens and our property. It is a difficult job. Our police must often make split-second decisions in very tense situations. They need adequate training and sensitivity to deal with those situations.

We should not belittle, though, the difficulties faced by the police. Improved education and training are important we agree, but an understanding of the situations we ask them to face every day is also necessary. Elevating the rhetoric and printing posters with cross-hairs of a gun scope not only does nothing to improve the situation, it makes it next to impossible for others to improve the situation. Indeed these actions are counterproductive and they are inciteful.

All citizens should remember the police are hired by us and they are entrusted by us with the role of protecting life and property. Youth or any citizen engaged in criminal activity must realize that society will hold you accountable for your actions. The police have been given a job to do. It is up to us to support them with training and skill and, more important perhaps, with understanding.

Finally, let me return to the point made in the Globe and Mail editorial on June 11. Stephen's letter to Bob "oozes...concern and good intentions. What it altogether lacks is the spirit of inquiry."

I think we need greater courage and greater honesty in this House and in this province to be brought into this discussion. I do not believe the Stephen Lewis letter has provided that. I don't think we'll advance the issue quickly or successfully until we openly discuss the problems.

I believe solutions can be found. I know the citizens of Ontario are charitable people. If we present the facts and work together, we can present constructive solutions. Contrary to the Premier's statement today, we are not yet there with all the facts and with all the information to be able to present constructive solutions.

POLICE USE OF FORCE

Mr Robert W. Runciman (Leeds-Grenville): I have some brief comments in response to the Solicitor General. As my leader indicated, I don't think any of us have any difficulty with the concept of additional training in the use of force, but I want to remind the Solicitor General that the police college is virtually shut down as a result of lack of funding from this government, so it's difficult to see where his priorities lie in that regard.

I must say that some of the initiatives he's announced dealing with use of force by police are disturbing. That concerns me and I think it concerns policemen and policewomen across this province, as all of us are going to be hearing in the next days and weeks. I believe this initiative and others that we've heard reflect the NDP's focus, which is entirely on equality of opportunity and treatment of visible minorities, while at the same time ignoring for the most part issues of public safety, police morale and individual responsibility.

I think if you talk to a cop on the beat -- regrettably Mr Lewis and, I believe, the Solicitor General have never spent a tour of duty with officers facing some of the challenges they do on a daily basis in Metropolitan Toronto. It might be enlightening for them to take the time to do just that. In the Metro area -- we can take a look at Ontario -- we have homicides up 18% in 1991, attempted murders up 163% and robberies up 44%, a record number of homicides in Metro Toronto last year, and it looks like we're going to surpass that number in 1992. To say this is handcuffing police I think is too mild. What we're essentially doing is to have more bureaucrats policing the police than police watching crooks.

We talked about the distorted priorities of this government and the previous government. I mentioned this in the past. We have the Solicitor General's ministry staff up 67% over the past number of years, while the OPP uniformed force was only increased by 9%. The OPP budget is less than 1% of total expenditures of this government. The provincial share of municipal policing costs has fallen from 12% under the last Conservative government to 6% under the current government.

Certainly an issue I raised yesterday and an issue that the Progressive Conservative Party has raised many other times in this House is that public safety is very low on this government's agenda. Considerations that this NDP government chooses to ignore are (1) the need to give all citizens in society, and particular in Metro Toronto, the confidence that they can walk the streets without fear, (2) that police will be provided with the statutory and moral support to protect public safety, and (3), which is related to the first one, that all citizens of the province, including the youth and visible minority youth, must be given the clear and unequivocal message that they are responsible for their actions, that there is no justification for criminal activity and that police and the courts will be given a mandate to deal with problems when they occur.

Regrettably, those are two matters this government has chosen to ignore, but I want to assure you and the members of this House, policemen and policewomen across this province and citizens concerned about public safety issues, that we will continue to raise them in this House and press the government on a regular basis.

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ORAL QUESTIONS

ECONOMIC POLICY

Mrs Lyn McLeod (Leader of the Opposition): My question is for the Premier. As preface to my question, I want to acknowledge what I think would be the unanimous agreement of everybody in this House that Ontario is indeed a great place in which to live and work. We do, after all, boast a health care system that remains the envy of the world and we have a highly trained workforce, but the reality is that despite the fact Ontario is a great place to live, this government is making it an absolutely impossible place in which to invest. Because of that, businesses continue to close, people continue to lose their jobs, employees are seeking greener pastures and employers are seeking greener pastures south of the border.

The examples continue. Last Friday, Champion Spark Plug in Windsor announced it was consolidating production at one of its United States facilities. Meanwhile, Washington Mills of Niagara Falls said it had chosen Niagara Falls, New York, as the site for its new expansion and its 42 jobs.

The government keeps saying its labour law reforms are not the only reason business is leaving this province and we agree. Double-digit hydro rate increases, obscene deficits, high gasoline taxes and billion-dollar tax grabs certainly play their most significant part in undermining our competitiveness.

I ask the Premier to tell this House if his first priority is indeed keeping people working and getting people back to work and that he will guarantee that every initiative, reform and decision he makes will be judged by that key factor. Is this Premier prepared to make that kind of commitment to the people of Ontario, or is he content to just watch while more and more of our businesses and industries continue to drift south of the border?

Hon Bob Rae (Premier and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs): Of course, as I've said on many occasions, job creation is the top priority of the government and I listened with care to the comments by the Leader of the Opposition. One of them stood out for me. In all the litany of things she's laying at our door, the one I love hearing from the Liberals is double-digit hydro rate increases. Hydro rate increases are high for one reason and one reason alone: the Darlington nuclear station, which was started by the Tories, completed by the Liberals and has now to be paid for by the ratepayers and taxpayers of Ontario, thanks to the action you took. Everybody in the world knows it. Everybody knows it.

Mrs McLeod: While I might welcome a discussion about Ontario Hydro and the direction it's taken under this government, I'm not going to be drawn into that in my response to the Premier's response to my question, because --

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon David Warner): Order.

Mrs McLeod: Let me return to the central focus of the question, which is that companies like Champion Spark Plug and Washington Mills have simply done their homework. They look at the total picture and they take a long, hard look at our competitive position and simply find it wanting.

I think the Premier needs to look at the statistics that come from his own Ministry of Labour and begin to address the reality that during the first five months of 1992, 73 manufacturers announced permanent layoffs affecting 50 or more people. Those layoffs alone -- and that doesn't even include the Washington Mills layoff of last Friday which only affected 42 people -- sent 13,688 people to the unemployment lines, a 30% increase this year over last.

Things are not getting better in Ontario and I ask how the Premier can continue to tell us he's committed to improving the workplace, when his government's policies are shrinking Ontario's competitive position and its workplace month by month.

Hon Mr Rae: There's no question that across North America there's a very tough process that's been going on. It's been accelerated by free trade. It's been accelerated by the impact of the recession. Everyone knows that. What I think should also be known is that the leader of the Liberal Party is bringing forward a very selective set of facts.

Why wouldn't she have described the reasons Chrysler has decided to put so much substantial investment in Brampton? Why would she not be telling us why Ford has made its decision, which it announced just a couple of months ago, with respect to its enormous, nearly $2-billion investment? Why wouldn't she have chosen to refer to the fact that the First City Trust company is closing its head office in Vancouver and moving 112 to 115 jobs to Toronto, or that Crayola has chosen its Lindsay plant over American plants in Kansas and Pennsylvania to supply the US Market, or that Mitel is phasing out its offshore phone production and consolidating telephone manufacturing at its Kanata plant?

Why wouldn't she have quoted from Robert Graham, the chairman and CEO of Inter-City Products Corp, which relocated from Red Bud, Illinois, to Brantford, with the addition of 300 jobs in the city of Brantford, who said this: "I do not subscribe to the belief that the days are over for manufacturing plants in Canada. There is no reason why a skilled, adaptable labour force in Canada cannot be a competitive, cost-effective operation, and I feel we've proved it. We can find other locations where real estate costs, taxes and labour rates are lower, but if a plant can offset that by productivity, you have to look at the bottom line." That's what Mr Graham said, not, as far as I'm aware, a supporter of the New Democratic Party or, yet, a member.

The Speaker: Would the Premier complete his response please.

Hon Mr Rae: I can tell the member she has to be balanced in her questions and in her approach. She's coming dangerously close to simply running the province down when the evidence is that when the competition is fair, we can meet it and we can beat it.

Mrs McLeod: When you talk about selective use of statistics, the Premier, in citing his examples to counter examples of those that are leaving, simply fails to add up the numbers and fails to address the fact that the bottom line is that the layoffs represent a 30% increase this year over last, a reality that's undeniable.

If the Premier were truly concerned about the way in which his government's policies can begin to turn around that overall loss of jobs that continues, he would be prepared to look at some very positive and concrete proposals. That's why, in this final supplementary, rather than continue to exchange examples, I would like to make a specific and concrete proposal to the Premier to address perhaps one of the most critical components of Ontario's overall competitiveness, and that's gasoline and diesel taxes.

We would like to suggest to the Premier that he look at a proposal to bring about a summer rollback in provincial gas and diesel taxes. The proposal would bring much-needed relief to Ontario manufacturers, clearly through lower transportation charges. Second, it would be a huge boost to Ontario's tourism industry, which is an industry in which 95,000 people in the restaurant and hospitality sector alone have lost their jobs since September 1990. This would be a seasonal proposal. It would be an attempt to give a positive signal to counteract what are so many negative signals at a time when this particular industry is most in need of a positive signal.

Clearly the government would say there would be an immediate loss of revenue. But in fact if they were to do a cost-benefit analysis, they might find there would be an actual offset to that in the increased number of tourists coming to visit Ontario this summer. Would the Premier at least consider this specific, concrete proposal, do the cost-benefit analysis and suggest that his Treasurer look at implementing this measure for July and August?

Hon Mr Rae: Any suggestion made in good faith by any member of the House will obviously be considered by me. I'm sure the leader will appreciate that in the absence of the Treasurer I can't give you a snap response. I can only say to the honourable member that I will look forward to her comments on the increased size of the deficit, which would be an inevitable byproduct of the kind of recommendation she's making. No doubt she'll be outside defending the fact that we have to borrow more money in order to pay for tax decreases.

The Speaker: New question.

Mrs McLeod: Just by way of information, I very clearly said to the Premier that in making the proposal they would do the cost-benefit analysis to see whether there might be some offsetting revenue by virtue of increasing tourism, a step the government refuses to take.

Interjections.

The Speaker: Order.

Mrs McLeod: My second question is also for the Premier on a quite different issue.

Interjections.

Mr James J. Bradley (St Catharines): What a smart-aleck you are over there. You wouldn't answer my questions yesterday. You didn't have the guts to answer them. You don't want to be seen as the man who is blocking democracy in this House.

The Speaker: Order, the member for St Catharines.

Interjections.

The Speaker: The Leader of the Opposition.

ROUGE VALLEY

Mrs Lyn McLeod (Leader of the Opposition): My second question is for the Premier and it refers back to a question I asked, in his absence last week, of the Minister of the Environment. In that question I was quoting the Premier at an earlier date, December 11, 1990, when in response to a question asked by the leader of the third party, he stated that "there are absolutely no plans of any kind by this government to use the Rouge Valley as a dump, none at all."

The Premier on that date continued by saying: "I do not know how I can be any clearer...I was asked specifically...whether I abided by the statements that I had made in the past with respect to there not being a dump in the Rouge Valley. That is the statement that I am making today: no dump in the Rouge."

On June 7, 1992, while touring the Rouge River Valley, he said, "We're determined to see there will be no dump in the park."

Once again the public trust has been betrayed by this government. I would ask the Premier why he and his government have retreated so completely from the promises they made in respect to dump sites in the Rouge Valley, and why he is now resorting to distinctions which he didn't feel were necessary to make when he was making those campaign promises.

Hon Bob Rae (Premier and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs): I'll refer the question to the Minister of the Environment.

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon David Warner): Order, the member for St Catharines.

Interjections.

The Speaker: This House stands recessed for 10 minutes.

The House recessed at 1443.

1454

Mr Murray J. Elston (Bruce): On a point of order, Mr Speaker, very briefly: I've stood in this place before and talked to you. I understand what your answer will be before I put the point of order under standing order 16, which is the one you have just used to recess this House for some 10 minutes.

The question was put in good faith. The Premier knows exactly what the response is going to be. He knew what the response would be when he assumed the answer to my leader's last supplementary on her first series of questions. He knew it would involve making this House spin into a little more chaos.

Mr Speaker, I would ask you on a point of order, to restore order to this place, if you would request the Premier to reconsider his referral of that question by my leader so that he answers for his own statements and does not pass off to the Minister of the Environment.

I ask therefore for unanimous consent for the Premier to reconsider his previous referral so that we can get on with answering in question period.

The Speaker: Is there unanimous consent?

Interjections: No.

The Speaker: No. The question was directed to the Premier. As is prescribed in the rules, he and any other member of the cabinet have the opportunity to redirect, and in fact that's what he did. It was redirected to the Minister of the Environment and she now has an opportunity to respond if she so chooses.

Hon Ruth A. Grier (Minister of the Environment and Minister Responsible for the Greater Toronto Area): In response to the question from the Leader of the Opposition, I'd like to respond --

Interjections.

The Speaker: This House stands recessed for 10 minutes.

The House recessed at 1456.

1506

Mr Elston: On a point of order, Mr Speaker: I ask, through you, Mr Speaker, to the government House leader, if the Premier intends to be here for more questions.

The Speaker: That's not a point of order. Does the government House leader wish to respond? Minister.

Hon Mrs Grier: Thank you, Mr Speaker. In response to the Leader of the Opposition's question, perhaps I can refer her to the revised approach and criteria put out by the Interim Waste Authority.

Interjections.

The Speaker: Would the minister take her seat, please.

Interjections.

The Speaker: To the member for Ottawa West, temperate language would assist us greatly, especially today. Minister.

Hon Mrs Grier: Mr Speaker, the answer to the question is simply no.

LANDFILL SITES

Mr Gregory S. Sorbara (York Centre): Mr Speaker, apparently the Minister of the Environment is not prepared to defend her policies under Bill 143 and the decisions that she must be held accountable for.

Just let me remind the minister of how popular her initiative to dump Metro's garbage into York region is. The other night 1,300 citizens of Schomberg gathered together in the Schomberg arena, determined to fight her policies; the other night a group of people met in King City to begin to organize and put together the framework of an organization to fight her determination to dump Metro's garbage in the King-Vaughan area; 1,300 people met last night in East Gwillimbury, determined to defeat the government on its policies relating to Metro's garbage; 1,500 people met in Markham to fight the dumping of garbage in the Rouge, and very shortly, on Friday night a large gathering will take place in the Pine Orchard area to fight this decision.

At every single one of these meetings we hear the same thing: that the error was made was by the Minister of the Environment herself when she determined, without any consultation, without any studies and without any consideration whatever of alternatives that she, by fiat and by Bill 143, would have Metro's garbage dumped in York region.

I ask the minister once again to explain to the members of this Legislature, to the citizens of York region and the citizens of the province on what basis she personally determined that Metropolitan Toronto's garbage should be dumped someplace in York region? What is the basis for that decision and how are we to justify that to the people of York region?

Hon Ruth A. Grier (Minister of the Environment and minister responsible for the greater Toronto area): The basis for that decision, which is a decision of the government and subsequently a decision of this Legislature in Bill 143, is that there is currently an agreement between Metro and York region with respect to the --

Interjection.

The Speaker (Hon David Warner): Order.

Hon Mrs Grier: -- disposal of their waste. That agreement is to the effect that Metro is responsible --

Mr Chris Stockwell (Etobicoke West): You abrogated that agreement. You expanded the site without agreement. The deal doesn't exist.

The Speaker: Order, the member for Etobicoke West.

Hon Mrs Grier: -- for the disposal of York's waste until the year 2003.

Interjection.

The Speaker: The member for Etobicoke West --

Hon Mrs Grier: Metro has begun to look for a disposal site for both --

Interjection.

The Speaker: I ask the member for Etobicoke West to come to order.

Hon Mrs Grier: Metro had begun, under the previous government, to look for a landfill site all across the province to deal with waste of both Metro and York. We continued that arrangement but confined the search to Metro and York. That's the answer.

The Speaker: Final supplementary.

Mr Carman McClelland (Brampton North): It's no surprise that the Premier refers an answer to the Minister of the Environment, the same Premier --

Interjection.

The Speaker: Order. I must caution the member for Etobicoke West that if he refuses to come to order he will be the cause of disorder and he may be named.

Mr McClelland: It is no wonder that the Premier refers the question to the Minister of the Environment. This is the same Premier who called the former Premier a liar on the campaign trail. Premier Rae has no courage to stand in his place and address statements that come flying right back in his face, that he now contradicts through his Minister of the Environment. He does not have the courage to stand here and respond to my leader when faced with the truth of the matter --

The Speaker: Your supplementary?

Mr McClelland: -- that he is not living up to his campaign promises.

My supplementary goes to the Minister of the Environment when the Premier lacks the courage to stand here and respond. The supplementary question is this, and it continues with the saga of landfill sites: In August 1990 the Premier and the Minister of the Environment travelled to Whitevale where they made another promise that they probably aren't prepared to keep either. They promised the people of Whitevale they would not become host to a landfill site. In November 1990 the Minister of the Environment backed off her campaign promise.

You are not prepared to keep the campaign promise you made in 1990, Minister. The people of the village of Whitevale believed you. They're appalled to find that now not one site but seven potential landfill sites surround their community. Ironically last night that community designated itself as a historical district while the townspeople are fighting off your Ruth Grier memorial dump site seven.

Why was it that in 1990 during the campaign, when in all your piety and self-righteousness you stood with the Premier and said you would not allow one site, that the people of Whitevale are now confronted with seven potential sites? One wasn't good enough in 1990; now you've given them seven. How do you reconcile that, Minister?

Hon Mrs Grier: If the member is going to accuse us of breaking promises, he might at least get the promises right. The promise was that no new landfill sites would be opened without an environmental assessment. That promise is being kept. It's not a promise that I expect to be popular but it is going to resolve the issue that has been unresolved for 10 years.

Interjections.

The Speaker: New question.

Mr Stockwell: My question is to the Minister of the Environment and minister responsible for the greater Toronto area. Let's be very clear about what your promise was. The last environmental assessment review that took place, took place in Halton and took some 17 years to approve. When you had your Premier standing on the landfill sites all across this province, including the ones you expanded in Peel and York, the promise was a full environmental assessment. That would take at least 15 to 17 years. Madam Minister, it's clear that you have broken your promises. What is it you would like us to tell the citizens of this province about landfill sites, the length of time they will take and what your new promise is to them today?

Hon Mrs Grier: I would suggest that the member refer people to the documents the Interim Waste Authority has put out and to the time schedule the Interim Waste Authority is going to be following, and if he wishes to expand on that discussion, to the administrative improvements to the Environmental Assessment Act that I released and discussed in this House a month or so ago.

Mr Stockwell: So now we know full well that the promises they made in the election are out the window, null and void, no longer in practice. All the promises you made to the citizens across this province don't mean a thing now. The question, Minister, is this: Your Premier stood on that day in August and accused the then Premier, Mr Peterson, of lying five times in a press conference. My question would be better put to the Premier but he decided to leave, so I will ask the minister: Do you still think Mr Peterson is a liar, and if so, what does that make you?

Hon Mrs Grier: Mr Speaker, I don't think that's an appropriate question for me to answer.

Interjections.

The Speaker: Order. Final supplementary.

Mr Stockwell: As a representative of Metro Toronto, I know this party in the last campaign --

Mr Jim Wiseman (Durham West): Yeah, he supported the EPA.

The Speaker: The member for Durham West.

Mr Stockwell: I've got to keep listening to this member for Durham West. You know, you're going to be like a bad smell; you won't be here in three years. That's the best thing that I can --

The Speaker: The member for Etobicoke West.

Interjections.

The Speaker: I ask the member for Durham West to come to order. It would be most helpful if all members could perhaps impose a moratorium on interjections, and at the same time if those who are asking questions would direct their questions to the Chair.

Mr Robert Chiarelli (Ottawa West): Ever see Peterson walk out?

The Speaker: I ask the member for Ottawa West to come to order.

Mr Stockwell: Obviously since the last election the party in power played very fast and loose with the truth, in my opinion. I answered many questions on the environment and landfill sites at doorsteps in Etobicoke. As a member of Metropolitan Toronto council I heard from some of those members across the floor. When the Rouge Valley was on the table -- and I admit that as a member of Metro I supported the Rouge being on the table because it was the only fair process we could undertake to ensure a full environmental hearing -- the party across the floor at that time, including certain members across the floor, suggested they were unreasonable and not safe environmental standards. Today we find exactly the opposite.

The question must be put to the minister. Minister, when you were making these suggestions about full environmental assessments, when you were making the promises to the people of Peel and when you were making the promises to the people of York, at no time did you suggest at that time that shipping garbage to the United States was bad. You continued to allow it. You never told them that Kirkland Lake was off the table.

My question, Minister, is this: When can we expect an answer from your government with respect to the promises you made last election, that got your people elected and that you're breaking haphazardly today? Why did you say it? Your Premier runs out of the House today; you don't respond. Why did you say it if you don't mean to defend it?

1520

Hon Mrs Grier: I thought I had been defending the environmental policy of this government in our commitment to an environmental assessment of new landfill sites ever since I removed the exemption given by the previous government from the Environmental Assessment Act to a site in Whitevale. That's the position of the previous government. That's the position we disagreed with and it's precisely the course of action we are embarked upon.

We know it is not popular with those people who are going to have a landfill site in their community, but our policy is to deal with waste management, put waste reduction first and have a fair and open environmental assessment. That's what people voted for and that's what they're getting.

INTERVENOR FUNDING

Mr W. Donald Cousens (Markham): The battle cry has been issued and communities in the greater Toronto area are outraged at what your government and your crown authority, the Interim Waste Authority, is doing to their neighbourhoods and their communities. The new credo that we're hearing now that NDP stands for is "No Dumps Please"; or the other one I kind of like is "Not Dumps -- People." But anyway, we're dealing with the crisis that you have created and I want to know if there's some way in which you could help to solve it.

The fact of the matter is that the Interim Waste Authority has a sum of money, and you would know better than I how much it's got in its budget. Is it $19 million to begin to implement the procedures that are now before it? What I'd like to ask you is, through intervenor funding, is there any kind of funding available to the people who want to fight these landfill sites or potential landfill sites in their communities?

Hon Ruth A. Grier (Minister of the Environment): I wish there were no need for landfill sites but the fact is that the people of the greater Toronto area create a great deal of waste and, instead of shipping it into somebody else's community to dispose of, what the Interim Waste Authority was established to do is to find sites within the greater Toronto area. In response to the specifics of the member's question: Yes, of course there will be intervenor funding available, as there always is under the Environmental Assessment Act.

Mr Cousens: Not once did the minister mention the Interim Waste Authority in her answer, and that's what I was asking about. Here we have the Interim Waste Authority coming into all these communities around the greater Toronto area and selecting sites and saying, "Well, this is a possible site." I'll tell you that anyone who lives near those sites and received a letter better be frightened, because any one of those sites could be the great selection.

The lottery is going to be made and the lottery has already started to be shown, because the people in those neighbourhoods' property values are going down. There won't be new construction going on in the area surrounding that -- not just within the kilometre from it but in the larger area -- so there is a tremendous need for support for those communities.

I re-ask the question: Is there anything your ministry, your government, can do to help those people respond to the Interim Waste Authority and the efforts it is making to change our communities for ever and ever?

Hon Mrs Grier: It's precisely because of the uncertainty that is created when candidate landfill sites are identified within the GTA or in any other part of the province that Bill 143, which established the Interim Waste Authority, spells out the very fast schedule that the Interim Waste Authority will be following to move from the long list of sites to the shorter list of sites to the preferred site by this time next year.

It is the ability of the Interim Waste Authority to move through the process much more quickly than has happened in the past, which I think the member was very critical of in our debate on Bill 143, but it is the policy of this government that has allowed the Interim Waste Authority to have those powers.

Mr Cousens: It's a terrible crisis of credibility, a crisis that is hitting everyone who surrounds this great Metropolitan area, because what is happening now in these communities is a sense of total frustration, not only with you as a government, but with the system and bureaucracy you've created around them. You've created a system that makes it next to impossible for them to react or to openly express their views. All the best lawyers are now tied up with the Interim Waste Authority, and for them to try to come along and get some help is nigh on impossible.

When we come along and look at the leaked cabinet document of your priorities, it says, "Exclude from future consideration number 76, intervenor funding." Not only does your government inflict a landfill site on each of the regions around the greater Toronto area and the communities and effectively silence their voices through underhanded legislation such as trying to deny public consultation, ignoring valid amendments to Bill 143, abusing the majority that you have had from September 6 to avoid the truth of your own environmental assessment promises that there would be a full environmental assessment -- that's why people in York are so angry. Bob Rae, when he was Leader of the Opposition, came up there beside Keele Valley and said that there will be a full environmental assessment.

The Speaker (Hon David Warner): And your supplementary?

Mr Cousens: What has happened to that promise? That's why we're upset and angry. But I now ask you, Madam Minister, will you direct the Environmental Assessment Board to release the funds to help those who want to fight the decisions of your board?

Hon Mrs Grier: I don't direct the Environmental Assessment Board. The Environmental Assessment Board determines the level of intervenor funding when we get to that point in the process and the Interim Waste Authority pays for the intervenor funding. This member sat through all the committee and all the debate on Bill 143. I think it's unfortunate that he didn't understand --

Interjections.

The Speaker: Has the minister concluded?

Hon Mrs Grier: Yes.

RED HILL CREEK EXPRESSWAY

Mr Gregory S. Sorbara (York Centre): Speaking about credibility, I have a question for my good friend the Minister of Transportation. The minister knows that his party, the New Democratic Party, is going to be holding its annual meeting this coming weekend in Hamilton at the Copps Coliseum.

The Minister of Transportation is not a popular person in Hamilton. In fact he's only slightly more popular than his predecessor, who simply killed the Red Hill Creek Expressway a year ago last December for some unknown reason which has yet to be explained to the Parliament or the people of Hamilton. The minister and his government are so unpopular in Hamilton that literally hundreds and hundreds of people are going to be organizing and demonstrating at 7:30 on Friday night in front of the city hall in Hamilton to protest the cancellation of the Red Hill Creek Expressway.

My question to the minister is rather simple. What is he going to say to the hundreds and hundreds of people who will be out there protesting on Friday night? What is he going to say to the hundreds and hundreds of construction workers who are unemployed right now and could be working on building that expressway? What is the minister going to say about the $100 million in forgone investment that has been cancelled because of his government's --

The Speaker (Hon David Warner): Would the member conclude his questions, please.

Mr Sorbara: -- cancellation of the Red Hill Creek Expressway? What is he going to say to the economy of Hamilton, which has been devastated by this recession and further devastated by an arbitrary, ill-considered decision to cancel the Red Hill Creek Expressway? What is he going to say to the people of Hamilton?

Hon Gilles Pouliot (Minister of Transportation): It's a good question. Since you've asked me, what I will tell the people is simply that Hamilton-Wentworth continues to be the proponent. Yes, we are anxious to get a recommendation and an answer to the alternative sought. Yes, full funding will continue from the Ministry of Transportation. We mean what we say. We work in the collective. This is no time for gloom and doom. Let's not go back to yesteryear to find an alternative within an established timetable. This has been arrived at. We're going forward and we're anxious to share those few precious moments with the good people from Hamilton on Friday.

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Mr Sorbara: I simply say to the Minister of Transportation that if that's what he is going to say to the people of Hamilton, perhaps he'd better reconsider his plans to attend his party's convention this weekend.

It is our information -- speaking about credibility -- that the Ministry of Transportation has concluded its assessment of an alternative route. The minister himself promised it would be available in April or May, and it is now almost the end of June. The study is concluded, we are told, and it recommends the route originally proposed by the people of Hamilton-Wentworth. The only reason for this delay is that the minister's budget has been cut by some $300 million this year because he didn't have the ability to argue on behalf of the people of Hamilton-Wentworth in cabinet deliberations. The reason he is not proceeding is that he doesn't have the money and he doesn't have any alternative route to the one initially proposed and accepted by the people of Ontario, this Legislature and its government before the last election.

Hon Mr Pouliot: If there is anyone in this House who is all dressed up with no place to go, it is certainly not the Minister of Transportation. In fact, someone could go so far as to say -- keeping the proper tone -- that the former emperor across has no clothes.

It is true that these are difficult, but far from impossible, times. When you take away the anti-recession component of the last budget and other subject matter in terms of estimates, you find that the ability of this ministry and this minister particularly to secure a large part of the capital funding as announced by the Treasurer is alive and well, Mr Speaker.

Business as usual, due process, indeed is following its course. Merchants of fear will not deter people's right to access to the most modern form of transportation, that for which they pay so dearly; that which they wish to have in a reasonable time.

ARTS AND CULTURAL FUNDING

Mrs Margaret Marland (Mississauga South): My question is for the Minister of Culture and Communications. Last month, the Ontario Arts Council released a report called Occupation: Artist, which confirms the sad reality that many of Ontario's artists are poor. This minister is quoted in the Brantford Expositor on May 2 as follows:

"I think, in recessionary times, it only makes the arts stronger. Artists are not strangers to working in conditions with little money and they are not strangers to working in hard times. I've talked to artists who make less than $10,000 a year, so actually the recession is probably making them stronger in their commitments or stronger in their work."

My question, Mr Speaker, is very serious. Could this minister please expand on her statement and tell us in what way she believes recessions or hard times make the arts and artists stronger?

Interjections.

Hon Karen Haslam (Minister of Culture and Communications): Actually --

The Speaker (Hon David Warner): Will the minister take her seat.

Interjections.

The Speaker: Minister.

Hon Mrs Haslam: Mr Speaker, I find it very disheartening that they find this very funny. These are very difficult times, and people in the arts community are well aware of that. I am very pleased that the ministry has been able to support the artists through the Ontario Arts Council. They had a 15% increase in their funding last year, and a lot of those funds go directly to artists and to art organizations in support of artists. I agree it's a very difficult time for artists, and it's not unusual for them to be making, as the member has indicated, less than $10,000. It is very true and it is very disheartening, so I share her concern about that.

Mrs Marland: The artists are going to be very encouraged by that response, because this minister has chosen not to answer the question, which was, how does she feel hard times make it easier or make the artist stronger and so forth? It's really significant that this minister says, "The Ontario Arts Council gives them money." She does not realize what the problem is. As far as we're concerned, in our party, we believe it's a tragedy for Ontario artists that this culture minister is so unbelievable as to promote the cliché of a starving artist. I'd like to see her try to live on $10,000 a year, let alone produce good art while doing it.

In case this minister doesn't know, the poverty line income for a single person in a large urban centre is $12,727 a year, and for a family of four it rises to $30,000 a year. This government is continuing the problem by forcing the Art Gallery of Ontario to lay off 200 staff and reduce its services to Ontario's visual artists and to art galleries across the province.

I ask this minister again, do you plan to do anything to improve the state of artists in Ontario, who you think can learn from tough times and recessionary times, which you think make them stronger? What is it you're going to do for the artists in this province?

Hon Mrs Haslam: The ministry has had some very long consultations with the artists in the arts community. It's a very complex situation. What the federal government has done is introduce status of the artist legislation. It is something we are looking at also. It is a very complex issue. We have consulted to a great degree with many people out in the communities. I hope we will continue to look at this aspect of the artist in our communities.

MINISTRY OF TRANSPORTATION CONTRACT

The Speaker (Hon David Warner): The Minister of Transportation, with the answer to a question asked earlier by the member for York Mills.

Hon Gilles Pouliot (Minister of Transportation): I welcome the opportunity to respond to the question raised by the member for York Mills yesterday. Of course, we're fully satisfied that all Management Board's criteria guidelines were strictly adhered to in awarding this contract. It's under the heading of unsolicited research proposals, so it does fit the bill. Due process was strictly adhered to. We're also satisfied that considerable time and effort were spent on establishing the criteria for the proposal. We specifically checked to ensure there were no duplications in terms of the criteria for the contract.

The contract was simply meant to foster a better relationship between labour, management and government. Of course, the member refuses to acknowledge that labour should have a voice in formulating the policies. Unfortunately, you will be fully cognizant that this attitude is outdated and does not fit in with the kind of competitive economic reality of today.

The Speaker: Could the minister conclude his response?

Hon Mr Pouliot: We are inviting the member to join us so that he too can attest first hand as to the positive --

Interjections.

The Speaker: Order.

Hon Mr Pouliot: -- contribution made by the three parties involved for a better future.

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Mr David Turnbull (York Mills): Mr Speaker, what a load of tripe. The study was not solicited and it wasn't tendered. The study was approved by your staff, Minister, before they had the opportunity to review the work plan or before the terms of reference were worked out. The Canadian Urban Transit Association wrote you expressing serious concern with the concept. They found that the study proposal was ill defined and that the study significantly duplicated work already done. They wrote, "The impression is that this is an effort to develop more effective strategies for collective bargaining and member representation."

These are very real concerns. It's too bad the Canadian Urban Transit Association was only notified about the project on December 2, 1991, after you had already approved the $160,000 expenditure.

The Speaker: And the supplementary?

Mr Turnbull: Is it your normal practice to approve a study without any tendering, before it has been demonstrated that it's needed and before you've consulted with anybody as to its terms? Is this the meticulous contract procedure you spoke about in the House yesterday, Minister, with taxpayers' money?

Hon Mr Pouliot: Let me clarify for the edification of the distinguished member across. He refers to the legitimacy of the contract, and rightly so. We're all aware that taxpayers must get fairness and a fair bang for their hard-earned dollars.

Mr Turnbull: Why wasn't it tendered?

Hon Mr Pouliot: You don't have to shout at me. If a contract is less than $250,000, if it fits the research criteria of Management Board, you don't have to tender, you must not solicit. We didn't ask for it, they came to us with the proposal.

The people across for decades adhered to the same rules, and their tenure was succeeded by the members of the official opposition adhering to the same strict principles, and we're following suit in terms of due process.

Interjections.

The Speaker: Order.

Hon Mr Pouliot: To suggest that the workers don't have a legitimate role to play is incomprehensible. I wish the member across would, once and for all, stop his anti-worker agenda. It's simply not constructive.

MUNICIPAL BOUNDARIES

Mr Bernard Grandmaître (Ottawa East): My question is to the Minister of Municipal Affairs. The minister will be aware that he has recently sent a letter retroactively cancelling the London-Middlesex negotiation process as part of the ministry's preparation in fighting the court action launched by the county. Also, the county court case, as you know, Mr Minister, is scheduled to proceed this week and challenges your right to cancel negotiations under the Municipal Boundary Negotiations Act. Given the pending court action, will the minister delay his legislation until the court rules on whether the proposed legislation contravenes the Municipal Boundary Negotiations Act?

Hon David S. Cooke (Minister of Municipal Affairs): I'm obviously not going to get into the details of a case that is before the courts other than to say the member doesn't have it quite correct about the question before the courts. The question before the courts, as I understand it, is challenging the right of the government and the Legislature to even deal with the legislation, and that matter will be dealt with by the courts. It's our opinion that we do have the right. The legislation is prepared and going through the very final stages of the approvals process and I expect to be able to introduce it this week.

Mr Grandmaître: They're still challenging your ruling: You're contravening the Municipal Boundary Negotiations Act. Your government has talked about building a new partnership with municipalities, but the people of Middlesex and the city of London fail to see the partnership that you're trying to build.

Can the minister explain how imposing legislation to slice up the county of Middlesex, which is unanimously opposed by local residents, builds any partnership? Also, can the minister explain how proceeding with legislation in the face of a court challenge from the affected municipalities builds any partnership? People have lost faith, Mr Minister, in your decision to impose your own plan on the annexation of the greatest part of Middlesex.

Hon Mr Cooke: I think the member might want to check with some of the local politicians in London and Middlesex, because as he will know as a former minister, whenever you're dealing with annexation issues, some support you and some don't. This is not a unanimous vote of support or opposition on the arbitration process that has taken place. I did spend a lot of time in London in the last few weeks to try to find a solution that could be acceptable to the county and the city. That was not possible because of the very unique nature of Middlesex county, and we have to proceed.

He will know that there are environmental problems in Westminster. There are economic problems in that area because of the uncertainty that exists, because there hasn't been an annexation solution developed in the past.

We can't continue to just freeze $60-million worth of development. As you know, there was a development freeze imposed by your government that is still there, waiting for this solution. I don't intend to have thousands of people remain unemployed, continue unemployed when there is a solution that's viable even though the solution is tough to deal with politically. There are a lot of things that have been left to this government to deal with by your government, that are tough politically, but we're not going to run away from them as you did.

ONTARIO TRAINING AND ADJUSTMENT BOARD

Mrs Dianne Cunningham (London North): My question today is for the Minister of Education. Mr Minister, school boards have a number of concerns with regard to the current government proposals for the establishment of the Ontario Training and Adjustment Board. I'm sure you know of their concerns about lack of representation on the main board and program transfers.

On April 2, the Ontario Public School Boards' Association requested a meeting with you to discuss the role of the publicly funded school systems and the provision of labour force development programs. To date, Mr Minister, two and a half months later, they've not received a reply from you and that is in spite of your cabinet's decision that no designated seats shall be there for school board representation.

Mr Minister, if you're not going to meet with them and if these decisions are being made at the cabinet table, how do you expect the school boards to believe that in fact you're doing everything you can as a Minister of Education to advocate for them when it comes to this OTAB discussion?

Hon Tony Silipo (Minister of Education): I have had a number of discussions with representatives of various school boards around the OTAB issue, and as I've indicated to them I understand their concerns and in fact share the concerns they've expressed, as I've indicated already to my colleague the Minister of Colleges and Universities. We've had some discussions already between the minister and myself and we are going to continue those discussions.

There are a number of issues that school boards have indeed raised with respect to representation issues but beyond that with respect to the provision of services. Some of the concerns they have, I believe we are in the process of resolving and addressing in terms of the assurance that they will certainly continue to play a very key role in the provision of services to adults and in a whole range of other concerns that time won't allow me to get into in detail. But it's my sense that in the discussions we are continuing to have between the two ministries we can address those concerns.

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Mrs Cunningham: The minister will not be surprised to know that the school boards won't be happy with that response. They expect to meet with you, and I'll just leave that one with you.

In a meeting with the deputy minister of OTAB held last week, the school board sector working group learned that an interministerial committee is currently collecting information on all training and adjustment programs and developing criteria to be used to determine which programs will be transferred. This is the interministerial committee. The school board sector working group was assured that once decisions have been made regarding which programs are to be transferred, the affected parties will be consulted on how the transfers will occur to minimize the impact.

Mr Minister, school boards must be consulted prior to any decisions being made on programs to transfer. Today I'm going to ask you, as the Minister of Education, will you guarantee that school boards will be part of the consultation process that will decide which programs will be transferred? That's what they want to know.

Hon Mr Silipo: My understanding is that in fact the school boards have been consulted and will certainly continue to be consulted. I can assure the member that we will ensure that continues to happen. We have put together a number of issues that school boards have raised with us, which we have specifically put to the OTAB secretariat and the minister to look at. As I said in my response earlier, we will be meeting specifically to address those issues and to make sure that we've taken those concerns that the school boards have brought to our attention and addressed them in the process that's being put together now to continue the implementation of the OTAB structures.

LANDFILL SITES

Mr Paul R. Johnson (Prince Edward-Lennox-South Hastings): My question is for the Minister of the Environment. Minister, the Leader of the Opposition and the leader of the third party on June 10 both urged you to consider allowing GTA waste to be sent to an abandoned open-pit mine near Kirkland Lake. There's an abandoned open-pit mine at Marmora called the Marmoraton mine and it's upstream of my constituency. This concerns my constituents. Can you assure the people of Marmora, can you assure Lionel Bennett, the reeve of Marmora and Lake township, can you assure the mayor of Belleville, Shirley Langer, can you assure the people of Marmora that their mine will not become a GTA waste site?

Hon Ruth A. Grier (Minister of the Environment): I can. The point the member made in his preamble is precisely one that I tried to make last week, which is that you can't do an environmental assessment by picking a site and then doing an environmental assessment. You have to look at a whole range of options and alternatives and then find the best site, and within the entire province, if you were going to look at one site outside the GTA, then you'd have to look at a range of sites outside the GTA. The effect of our policy is for us to be able to say with some assurance to the people of Marmora, "Your open-pit mine will not be considered for GTA waste."

The Speaker (Hon David Warner): Supplementary?

Mr Johnson: I indeed do have a supplementary. Given that we all know the obvious dire environmental consequences of using the Marmoraton mine, I have a press release dated August 3, 1990, from Mike Harris, and the members of the third party might know this particular individual. On August 3, 1990, Mike Harris was standing beside the Marmoraton mine in Marmora and he said, and this is a quote: "Under the Liberal process it will take at least 12 months to determine that this is not a good place to throw garbage. It takes anyone standing here 12 seconds to reach the same conclusion."

My question to the minister is this: Can you explain why Mr Harris thinks a similar mine near Kirkland Lake, knowing the obvious dire consequences to the environment --

Interjections.

The Speaker: Order. Would the member complete his question, please.

Mr Johnson: -- of using an open-pit mine to take refuse and garbage -- does the minister think Kirkland Lake is a good place to throw that garbage?

Interjections.

The Speaker: I asked the members of the House to come to order. The member for Prince Edward-Lennox-South Hastings will have an opportunity to pose his supplementary. Had the member completed his supplementary?

Mr Johnson: Could the minister explain why Mr Harris might think that the mine in Kirkland Lake is a good place to throw garbage?

Hon Mrs Grier: I certainly couldn't begin to explain --

Mr Norman W. Sterling (Carleton): On a point of order, Mr Speaker: How would the Minister of the Environment have any idea what a Conservative leader would think about the environment?

The Speaker: I suppose in a few seconds we may find out. The Minister of the Environment.

Hon Mrs Grier: No, Mr Speaker, I'm afraid I can't answer that question, but perhaps it flows from that same press release as --

Interjection.

The Speaker: Order, the member for Etobicoke West.

Hon Mrs Grier: -- Mr Harris's assertion that there should be class environmental assessments of waste management.

Interjections.

The Speaker: I must warn the member for Etobicoke West that he has been asked several times to come to order. If he chooses not to come to order, he is a cause of disorder in this chamber. I ask the member one more time, will he please show respect for this chamber by coming to order? Otherwise I will name him.

The time for oral questions has expired.

Interjections: Oh.

The Speaker: We're all disappointed about that.

USE OF QUESTION PERIOD

Mr Murray J. Elston (Bruce): On a point of order, Mr Speaker: I am kind of disappointed about it, because you know what has happened here today. The Premier walked out of this House and caused grave --

Interjections.

The Speaker (Hon David Warner): Order. The Speaker cannot determine what is a point of order until the Speaker hears what the member alleges to be a point of order. It would assist the process if all members could just be quiet for a few moments so that I can hear what the member believes to be a point of order. I also urge all members again to please try to use temperate language.

Mr Elston: Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. I appreciate that. Under the circumstances, I think I know what your answer will be to this, but I have noted for you under standing order 16 again that from time to time grave disorder is created by the very nature of the activities of the government side when it comes to dealing with our questions.

Mr Speaker, I think it has been the way of this Parliament since we came back here in April that the government has taken unto itself the idea that if the Premier does not appear here, does not answer questions, passes them up or walks out of the question period during the first half of our sitting here, he won't have to face the music. That causes great upset.

On two consecutive days now, yesterday and today, we have had questions that have been placed by backbench members of the New Democratic Party which have been designed to incite the members of the opposition to believe that in fact they are doing nothing but running the clock. Mr Speaker, I ask you to consider the question just asked by the honourable member for Prince Edward-Lennox-South Hastings where he asked the Minister of the Environment to comment publicly on what is in the mind of the member for Nipissing, the leader of the third party.

I cannot for the life of me see how that fits into the standing orders requirement that there is, with respect, great public interest having to do with the Minister of the Environment speculating about either the motives or the knowledge or the position of another member of this opposition bench or of the party to the left of me.

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That is not of great public debate; it is question period with respect to the public policy of the government. It is for me, Mr Speaker, to therefore ask you to bring those members to order in other question periods, but in particular on today's date because of the nature of that question following as it did on the heels of the demonstration by the Premier and on the demonstration of the backbench members on previous occasions and on the demonstration by backbench members in asking ministers to make statements in this place during question period, and that you allow us to have one more question in this House today.

I understand you may be very much pressed on this issue, but day after day I have stood in my place and asked you to consider the nature of the conduct of the party, not on each of its phrases which are designed to cause great disorder but upon the building of phrase upon phrase, of action upon action to determine a definite government strategy to offend and defeat the purpose of the opposition parties. I only ask you for equitable treatment in this fashion on today's date.

Mr Ernie L. Eves (Parry Sound): On the same point of order, Mr Speaker: I would ask you to take under consideration whether or not the honourable member was in fact impugning motive in his question and in his statements in the House today. The government is all too quick to point out to members on this side of the House when it feels they're impugning the motive of a cabinet minister as to why he or she has done a certain thing or brought in a particular piece of legislation. Surely we deserve the same treatment over here.

The Speaker: Would the members resume their seats for a moment.

Mr Carman McClelland (Brampton North): Mr Speaker, on the same point of order.

The Speaker: This is new information, I trust?

Mr McClelland: I think it's relevant, Mr Speaker.

The Speaker: The member for Brampton North, if it's new information.

Mr McClelland: Mr Speaker, I confess that I may be one of the people who contributed somewhat to a little bit of the across-the-floor exchange that took place earlier today. I want to add to the point made by my House leader in this regard.

I'll be very candid with you. I had a question to put to the Minister of the Environment. I didn't get an opportunity to do it because of the question that really was not substantive in any way. I think if you were to review the question put by the member for Prince Edward-Lennox-South Hastings, you would understand why that kind of --

The Speaker: Would the member take his seat, please.

Mr David Turnbull (York Mills): Point of privilege.

The Speaker: I'm dealing with a point of order right now. I'll be very pleased to get to the member for York Mills with his point of privilege.

To the member for Bruce and the member for Parry Sound: I understand the point he's attempting to make with respect to the fielding of questions by the Premier and his ability under the standing orders to refer those questions. I must say it's my observation that perhaps many of the concerns he expresses might be the topic of discussion for a House leaders' meeting to determine if there is in fact a bona fide complaint which can be resolved.

There is nothing out of order with the Premier or any minister of the crown redirecting a question. The member will also know that there is no rule to compel the attendance of any member of this House; it doesn't matter whether you're on the government side or the opposition side.

I understand the member's point with respect to the question posed by the member for Prince Edward-Lennox-South Hastings. While, because of the noise in the chamber, it was difficult to hear every word that was said, I did not hear anything which was impugning motives.

It is also quite difficult, I trust the member might agree, that what is deemed to be of public importance to one member with respect to his or her riding may not be deemed to be of public importance to some other member, or indeed to all the other members collectively of the entire assembly.

Interjections.

The Speaker: Order. Each member has the opportunity when recognized to raise questions which relate to his or her constituency or critic portfolio, or any other issues. The member, as I listened carefully to his question, I believe was raising something that in general terms could be described as relating to his riding. But it would be very difficult, since we do not vet questions in advance, a practice that was abandoned some years ago. When members are re-examining the rules, if they wish to reinstitute the practice of vetting questions through the Speaker's office, indeed that may be something members wish to consider.

Lastly, I fully appreciate the member's point with respect to the general tone that is set in the House. I can only say to the member and to all members that I have a grave concern about the tone, especially as we saw it today. I don't think your Speaker can do it all by himself. I think it will take the collective efforts of every person in this House to try to set the right course.

Perhaps some of the concerns which he has very legitimately brought to my attention are concerns that can be discussed in an amicable atmosphere with all three House leaders, as is the practice in our chamber and a good practice, as a way to try to resolve differences of opinion and provide a smooth question period.

Mr Turnbull: On a point of privilege, Mr Speaker.

The Speaker: I'm sorry, the member for York Mills had risen earlier on a point of privilege.

MINISTER'S COMMENTS

Mr David Turnbull (York Mills): On a point of privilege, Mr Speaker: It does have bearing on your ruling that you've made, but it stands by itself. In point of fact, the Minister of Transportation, at the end of his response to my supplementary today, did impugn motive in suggesting that in some way the Conservatives have some anti-union agenda. That is clearly impugning motive.

Mr Speaker, I would suggest that you consider the extracts of Hansard from this Instant Hansard and request that the minister retract that and indeed correct the record in Hansard.

The Speaker (Hon David Warner): To the member for York Mills, I indeed listened very carefully to the response. The Minister of Transportation.

Hon Gilles Pouliot (Minister of Transportation): It's in the records of the House, to answer the member for Oakville South: "I will fight the workers." Was it a Freudian slip? I am just quoting.

Interjections.

Hon Mr Pouliot: Well, I'm not the one who said it, Mr Speaker.

The Speaker: Would the member take his seat, please. I ask the member to take his seat.

Interjections.

The Speaker: Order. To the member for York Mills, I listened carefully to the response by the Minister of Transportation and I must say that while the statement he made would perhaps be classified as provocative, and indeed represents a difference of opinion, it is not in a classification of impugning motives. It is quite clearly a difference of opinion between the two sides of the House with respect to the matter that was being discussed.

I understand why the member would bring it to my attention, but it's not a point of privilege. The member for Oakville South.

Mr Gary Carr (Oakville South): The Minister of Transportation, just a few moments ago, talked about something I said in Hansard. I think if anyone will read the record, what he said that I said is not there, and I would ask that he withdraw.

The Speaker: This is hardly the forum to be debating what was or wasn't said in Hansard, unless it pertains directly to a point of privilege. It certainly would be helpful if members could restrain themselves from responding to every single point that is raised in the House so that we can get on with our public business.

Interjections.

The Speaker: We'll rewind the tape. If the Minister of Transportation, upon reflection, believes that he has said something that is not accurate and has in fact offended the member for Oakville South, perhaps he'd like to withdraw.

Hon Mr Pouliot: Thank you, Mr Speaker. Fundamental differences I can live with, and I'm willing to withdraw. I apologize. I have nothing but friends here, I trust, and if it's a matter of personal --

Mr Jean Poirier (Prescott and Russell): Ha, ha.

Hon Mr Pouliot: No, no. If we take things away from the political arena, it still means a lot to me. You can laugh all you will, and I respect you and I respect what you say. I will leave it at that level. I will withdraw if it offended the member.

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MEMBERS' CONDUCT

Mr James J. Bradley (St Catharines): On a point of order, Mr Speaker: When you are considering the issue of grave disorder in the House -- and I heard you calling certain members of the House to order appropriately, as you are supposed to do when there is disorder in the House, and we appreciate the difficulty you have in your job -- I hope that in making the assessment of when you're going to name a member -- and a member is mostly responsible herself or himself for being named, quite obviously -- you take into consideration the provocation that has caused a member to become exceedingly upset, as the member for Etobicoke West was, for instance, because there were two questions in the House that would have caused that.

There was a question directed to the Premier, which he would not answer and he passed off. The same kind of question is from the member for Prince Edward-Lennox-South Hastings, and I happen to think the member for Prince Edward-Lennox-South Hastings can ask whatever question he sees fit, and you will judge whether it's in order or not. But we get the same question, and of course there's someone very prepared to answer that question. In the other case, the Premier is not prepared; he wants to pass it off to someone else. I'm just simply pointing out that that's why we get grave disorder in this House.

The Speaker (Hon David Warner): To the member for St Catharines, I fully understand, I think as each Speaker does, that in judging each situation on its own merits one takes into account all of the events that are occurring. Of course, being able to maintain decorum in the House is sometimes a bit more challenging than other times. But perhaps now we're making progress.

Mr Steven Offer (Mississauga North): On a point of order, Mr Speaker: I believe there was a certain disservice and a disrespect shown to the Speaker of the Legislature by the Attorney General of this province. It is as follows --

The Speaker: Sorry, you can't raise a point of order on behalf of someone else.

Mr Offer: I am raising it as --

The Speaker: Would the member take his seat. If the Attorney General has done something to offend the Speaker, he perhaps would apologize, but to my knowledge, he has not done anything to offend the Speaker.

USE OF GOVERNMENT FACILITIES

Mr Murray J. Elston (Bruce): Actually, Mr Speaker, it is a point of privilege that I rise on at this moment. You will see in my hand for immediate release the Ontario New Democrat convention agenda of June 11, 1992 --

Interjection: Are you invited?

Mr Elston: Well, I'm not invited, but I guess we could probably go as observers for a price; they'll sell for anything.

My point of privilege surrounds the fact that one of the contact people is Jill Marzetti, whom we all know about, and her telephone number is there. But the second contact person with respect to this material is Sheila in the Premier's office, and they give the Premier's office, a 325 number, as the contact to deal with the annual meeting and the agenda attached for the New Democratic Party of this province.

The Speaker (Hon David Warner): The point of privilege?

Mr Elston: The privilege is that party politics are not to be funded out of the public offices of this building. The precincts of this place are supposed to be separate from the party officials' work for the New Democratic Party of this province. There is now clear evidence that the Premier's office is being used for the partisan purpose of organizing the annual meeting.

Interjections.

The Speaker: Order. To the member for Bruce, I understand the point he's raising, and if he would be kind enough to forward that to me I would be pleased to take a look at it and reserve judgement obviously. I'll deal with it as quickly as I am able to.

MINISTERIAL CORRESPONDENCE

Mr David Ramsay (Timiskaming): Mr Speaker, I rise today on a point of personal privilege. I hesitate to do so, but I've used other methods in this House to try to bring to the attention of the government a matter I feel is very important. It's got to do with the way government ministries communicate with members of this Assembly. The way they do that, I find, encumbers the way my office operates. I brought this to the attention of the House a year ago, Mr Speaker, as a private member's statement.

A year ago, the Minister of Culture and Communications communicated to me, which I really appreciated, the number and the amount of grants that ministry had presented to all the library boards in my area. Today, I found in my office 23 envelopes with 23 letters addressed to all my various library boards, when I had told the previous minister a year ago that a list would suffice. In fact, I'd like to bring a positive example forward. The Minister of Industry, Trade and Technology sent us a letter the other day, one sheet listing all the various grants to different businesses in our riding.

The Speaker (Hon David Warner): Could the member identify what privilege he believes he's lost?

Mr Ramsay: Mr Speaker, I believe in trying to run an efficient office here, representing the constituents I represent. My staff has to waste the time, besides the taxpayers' money being spent on all this paper. The Minister of Culture and Communications sends me in one day 23 letters, all identical. That encumbers the --

The Speaker: I see. The member for Timiskaming does not have a point of privilege. However, I understand his interest in the matter. It's one that is of concern to him, and perhaps he may wish to discuss it with the minister responsible.

PETITIONS

LABOUR LEGISLATION

Mr Steven Offer (Mississauga North): I have a petition. It reads as follows:

"To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

"Whereas investment and job creation are essential for Ontario's economic recovery,

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

"To instruct the Minister of Labour to table the results of independent, empirical studies of the impact amendments to the Labour Relations Act will have on investment and jobs before proceeding with those amendments."

That has been signed by members of Roof Maintenance, which is a division of Ed Christensen Roofing Ltd of Vineland, Ontario. I have signed my name to this petition.

Mr Jim Wilson (Simcoe West): I have a petition addressed to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario. It reads as follows:

"Whereas independent and non-partisan economic studies have concluded that the proposed changes to Ontario labour legislation will increase job losses; and

"Whereas they will cause a decline in investment in Ontario; and

"Whereas they will seriously undermine the recovery and the maintenance of a sound economic environment in the province;

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

"That the government of Ontario declare a moratorium on any proposed changes to the labour legislation in the best interests of the people of Ontario."

I've affixed my name to this petition.

MUNICIPAL ZONING BYLAWS

Mr Stephen Owens (Scarborough Centre): On behalf of 118 signatories, I'd like to present a petition involving the inclusive neighbourhoods campaign.

"Whereas there is a shortage of affordable rental housing units in Ontario;

"Whereas this shortage most affects individuals and groups facing discrimination and social and economic disadvantages;

"Whereas the Ontario Human Rights Code affirms that every person has a right to equal treatment with respect to the occupancy of accommodation without discrimination because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, family status, handicap or receipt of social assistance and that any policy or factor which results in the exclusion of people who come within the prohibitive grounds of discrimination is illegal;

"Whereas the province of Ontario agreed to article XI of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, an aspect which is not to be discriminated against;

"We therefore petition the government of Ontario, in particular the Premier, the Minister of Municipal Affairs, the Minister of Housing and the Minister of Citizenship, to immediately put an end to this widespread violation of human rights across the province by amending the Planning Act so as to require all municipalities to permit the creation of additional rental units that meet the health and safety standards in neighbourhoods zoned for single-family housing."

I affix my signature of support.

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RIGHT TO APPEAL

Mrs Barbara Sullivan (Halton Centre): I have a petition addressed to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, reading as follows:

"We, the undersigned residents of Ontario, in support of the mother of Debra Pauline Williams Ellul, draw to the attention of the House the following:

"That the right to appeal the decision made in Debra Williams Ellul's murder acquitting Guy Ellul of all charges be granted based on the fact that the decision not to allow the appeal does not accurately reflect the public's abhorrence and unacceptability of the outcome of this trial."

I concur with this petition and I have affixed my signature to it.

LABOUR LEGISLATION

Mr David Tilson (Dufferin-Peel): I have a petition of 240 signatures from my riding of Dufferin-Peel, Stratford, Kingston, Kitchener and Gloucester. It's addressed to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.

"Whereas independent and non-partisan economic studies have concluded that the proposed changes to Ontario labour legislation will increase job losses; and

"Whereas they will cause a decline in investment in Ontario; and

"Whereas they will seriously undermine the recovery and the maintenance of a sound economic environment in the province;

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

"That the Ontario government declare a moratorium on any proposed changes to the labour legislation in the best interests of the people of Ontario."

I have affixed my name to this petition.

MUNICIPAL BOUNDARIES

Mrs Irene Mathyssen (Middlesex): I continue to get petitions from the county of Middlesex. This one is signed by residents of the town of Strathroy and townships of Adelaide, North Dorchester and Westminster, who, through their townships and county councils, have requested a reduction in the size of the annexation in the county of Middlesex, the preservation of agricultural land and the rural way of life.

I have signed my name to this petition.

EDUCATION FINANCING

Ms Dianne Poole (Eglinton): I have a petition to the members of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.

"We the ratepayers, parents, staff and students of the Metropolitan Separate School Board are concerned about the way in which Catholic education is funded by the Ontario government in Metropolitan Toronto.

"Although separate schools have been given the right to provide education to the end of grade 12 OAC, they were never given equal funding. For example, in 1991 a Catholic elementary school child in Metro was educated with 75% of the money spent on his/her public school counterpart and the Catholic high school student was allocated only 70% of the money spent on his/her public school counterpart. These differences represent a shortfall of $1,678 per student at the elementary level and $2,502 at the high school level, leaving the Metropolitan Separate School Board $198 million short of their Metro public counterparts in total operating costs/revenue for the same number of students.

"The BNA Act of 1867 recognizes the right of Catholic students to a Catholic education, and in keeping with this the province of Ontario supports two education systems from kindergarten to grade 12 OAC. Unfortunately only 20% of residential taxes go into the separate school coffers. Unless the Catholic householder specifically elects to support the separate school system, his or her residential taxes go into the public school purse by default. By 1995, the pooling of corporate taxes that started in 1989 will be complete, but the separate schools will be entitled to only 20% of this money, and not the 30% that one might expect. Unfortunately the division of funds is based on residential assessment and not on student enrolment.

"We urge you to act now to restructure the way in which municipal and provincial tax dollars are apportioned so that Ontario's two principal education systems are funded not only fully but with equity and equality."

I have attached my signature to this petition.

LABOUR LEGISLATION

Mr Gary Carr (Oakville South): I am pleased to table a petition signed by concerned employees of Ontario's printing industry, which reads as follows:

"To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

"Whereas the proposed changes to labour legislation will increase potential job losses; and

"Whereas they will cause a decline of investment in Ontario; and

"Whereas they will seriously undermine the recovery of a sound economic environment; and

"Whereas a recent public opinion poll showed that 83% of Ontario citizens support the withdrawal of these proposed changes;

"We, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to declare a moratorium on any proposed changes to the existing labour legislation."

MUNICIPAL ZONING BYLAWS

Mr Larry O'Connor (Durham-York): I have a petition that has been signed by 22 constituents in my riding, and it concerns inclusive neighbourhoods my fellow member just presented a petition on.

"Whereas there is a shortage of affordable rental housing units in Ontario; and

"Whereas this shortage most affects individuals and groups facing discrimination and social and economic disadvantage, for example, racial and ethnic minorities, immigrants and refugees, first nations people, women, gay men and lesbians, seniors, youth, single parents, people with children, people with disabilities, psychiatric survivors and people on social assistance; and

"Whereas the Ontario Human Rights Code affirms that every person has a right to equal treatment with respect to the occupancy of accommodation, without discrimination because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, family status, handicap or receipt of social assistance, which is section 2(1), and that any policy or factor which results in the exclusion of people who come within the prohibited grounds of discrimination is illegal; and

"Whereas people who cannot afford to buy a house are often excluded from the lower-density neighbourhoods which are generally well served by community, educational and recreational services; and

"Whereas many thousands of home owners in all municipalities across Ontario have created additional units in their homes that have not changed the quality of life in their neighbourhoods; and

"Whereas tenants in such illegal units are not guaranteed the legal rights and protections that tenants in legal units have, therefore creating two classes of tenants; and

"Whereas zoning is only supposed to control land use, in practice it has excluded members of disadvantaged groups from living in many neighbourhoods; and

"Whereas such zoning practices are exclusionary and are a violation of the rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Ontario Human Rights Code; and

"Whereas the province of Ontario agreed to article XI of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, a treaty signed by Canada and 96 other nations, which recognizes that housing is one of the fundamental human rights, an aspect of which is the right not to be discriminated against in housing choice and location,

"We therefore petition the government of Ontario, in particular the Premier, the Minister of Municipal Affairs, the Minister of Housing and the Minister of Citizenship responsible for the Ontario Human Rights Code, to immediately put an end to this widespread violation of human rights across the province by amending the Planning Act so as to require all municipalities to permit the creation of additional rental units that meet health and safety standards in neighbourhoods zoned for single-family housing."

I affix my name.

LABOUR LEGISLATION

Mr Steven Offer (Mississauga North): I have a petition.

"To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

"Whereas investment and job creation are essential for Ontario's economic recovery,

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

"To instruct the Minister of Labour to table the results of independent empirical studies of the impact that amendments to the Labour Relations Act will have on investment and jobs before proceeding with those amendments."

This petition has been signed by members of Valcom Ltd, which is located in the city of Ottawa. I have signed my name to this petition.

REVENUE FROM GAMING

Mr David Tilson (Dufferin-Peel): I have a petition with 20 signatures from constituents in my riding.

"To the Legislative Assembly of Ontario:

"Whereas the amateur sports teams and charitable organizations across Ontario derive their financial support from the proceeds of bingos and various Monte Carlo nights; and

"Whereas the NDP government is planning on legalizing casinos and other forms of gambling; and

"Whereas this action will render it increasingly more difficult for amateur sports teams and charitable organizations to raise funds to support amateur sports and charities; and

"Whereas the volunteers who operate these facilities are not looking for handouts and seek only to raise funds to support their amateur sports teams and charitable organizations,

"We, the undersigned, respectfully petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to ensure that the government maintains the ability of these amateur sports teams and organizations to continue to raise needed support money through bingos and various Monte Carlo nights."

I have affixed my name to that petition.

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MUNICIPAL ZONING BYLAWS

Mrs Joan M. Fawcett (Northumberland): I have a petition.

"Whereas there is a shortage of affordable rental housing units in Ontario; and

"Whereas this shortage most affects individuals and groups facing discrimination and social and economic disadvantage, for example, racial and ethnic minorities, immigrants and refugees, first nations people, women, gay men and lesbians, seniors, youth, single parents, people with children, people with disabilities, psychiatric survivors and people on social assistance; and

"Whereas the Ontario Human Rights Code affirms that every person has a right to equal treatment with respect to the occupancy of accommodation without discrimination because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, family status, handicap or receipt of social assistance and that any policy or factor which results in the exclusion of people who come within the prohibited grounds of discrimination is illegal;

"Whereas people who cannot afford to buy a house are often excluded from the lower-density neighbourhoods which are generally well served by community, educational and recreational services;

"Whereas many thousands of home owners in all municipalities across Ontario have created additional units in their homes that have not changed the quality of life in their neighbourhoods;

"Whereas tenants in such illegal units are not guaranteed the legal rights and protections that tenants in legal units have, therefore creating two classes of tenants;

"Whereas zoning is only supposed to control land use, in practice it has excluded members of disadvantaged groups from living in many neighbourhoods;

"Whereas such zoning practices are exclusionary and are often a violation of rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Ontario Human Rights Code;

"Whereas the province of Ontario agreed to article XI of the International Covenant of Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, a treaty signed by Canada and 96 other nations, which recognizes that housing is one of the fundamental human rights, an aspect of which is the right not to be discriminated against in housing choice and location;

"We therefore petition the government of Ontario, in particular the Premier, the Minister of Municipal Affairs, the Minister of Housing and the Minister of Citizenship responsible for the Ontario Human Rights Code, to immediately put an end to this widespread violation of human rights across the province by amending the Planning Act so as to require all municipalities to permit the creation of additional rental units that meet health and safety standards in neighbourhoods zoned for single-family housing."

I've affixed my signature.

USE OF GOVERNMENT FACILITIES

Mr Murray J. Elston (Bruce): On a point of order, Mr Speaker: Just very briefly, you heard me speaking to the member for Scarborough-Ellesmere, who occupied the seat as Speaker earlier in the afternoon. I do now ask a page to bring to you for transmittal a copy of the press release with the Premier's office contact with respect to the New Democratic Party's convention.

Plus, I wish by way of my statement to indicate that I'm sending forward also another document, a copy of a report from the Kenora Daily Miner and News, February 25, 1992, wherein no less an authority than the Attorney General has also indicated that the New Democratic Party is "totally separate" from the Premier and his cabinet. I wish this also to be taken into consideration by the Speaker when he reviews my point of privilege earlier undertaken on my behalf.

The Deputy Speaker (Mr Gilles E. Morin): I'll be very glad to oblige.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

UNIVERSITY FOUNDATIONS ACT / LOI DE 1992 SUR LES FONDATIONS UNIVERSITAIRES

Hon Mr Allen moved first reading of Bill 68, An Act respecting University Foundations / Loi concernant les fondations universitaires.

Motion agreed to.

The Deputy Speaker (Mr Gilles E. Morin): Would you like to make a statement, Minister?

Hon Richard Allen (Minister of Colleges and Universities): Yes, Mr Speaker. The purpose of this act is to permit the establishment of university foundations as crown agencies that will receive and distribute contributions to support universities in Ontario. I want to stress that this legislation will provide opportunities for universities to access donations from all individuals and corporations and from people with moderate incomes as well as those who can make larger contributions.

Last November, this House debated a resolution pertaining to university foundations. At that time, all parties agreed on the principle of that resolution. I have a letter from the Leader of the Opposition expressing her support. The member for London North, as the critic for Colleges and Universities, has also confirmed her support for this bill.

I hope this good faith towards this piece of legislation will be extended by all members of the House when we get to consider the bill.

The Deputy Speaker: On a point of order, the member for York Centre.

Mr Gregory S. Sorbara (York Centre): On a point of order, Mr Speaker: My point of order relates to the introduction of the bill by the minister to create university foundations and it arises under section 31 of the standing orders. The introduction of this bill represents one more occasion when a bill is introduced in this House during that part of routine proceedings relating to introduction of bills and there is no statement made by the minister during ministers' statements, as provided for under section 31, so that we can comment.

If I might just for a moment, Mr Speaker --

The Deputy Speaker: It's not a point of order.

CITY OF NORTH BAY ACT, 1992

Mr Harris moved first reading of Bill Pr17, An Act respecting the City of North Bay.

Motion agreed to.

KITCHENER-WATERLOO HOSPITAL ACT, 1992

Mr Cooper moved first reading of Bill Pr21, An Act respecting Kitchener-Waterloo Hospital.

Motion agreed to.

INVESTIGATION INTO THE HUMAN HEALTH EFFECTS OF EXPOSURE TO ABRIN ACT, 1992 / LOI DE 1992 SUR L'ENQUÊTE SUR LES EFFETS SUR LA SANTÉ D'EXPOSITION À L'ABRIN

Mr Cordiano moved first reading of Bill 69, An Act to require the Minister of the Environment to direct an Investigation into the Deleterious Human Health Effects of Exposure to Abrin / Loi enjoignant au ministre de l'Environnement d'ordonner une enquête déterminant les effets néfastes de l'abrin sur la santé des humains qui y sont exposés.

Motion agreed to.

The Deputy Speaker: Do you have a statement to make?

Mr Joseph Cordiano (Lawrence): Yes, Mr Speaker, to the Minister of the Environment. It's absolutely essential that when something as deleterious as abrin can occur in the human body then it's important that the Minister of the Environment is charged with the responsibility of conducting investigations to ensure that those deleterious effects won't be long-lasting and that they won't have the kind of harmful side-effects to human health that can occur from abrin.

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CITY OF NORTH BAY AND TOWNSHIP OF FERRIS ACT, 1992

Mr Harris moved first reading of Bill Pr32, An Act respecting the City of North Bay and Township of East Ferris.

Motion agreed to.

INVESTIGATION INTO THE HUMAN HEALTH EFFECTS OF EXPOSURE TO BENZOAPYRENE ACT, 1992 / LOI DE 1992 SUR L'ENQUÊTE SUR LES EFFETS SUR LA SANTÉ D'EXPOSITION AU BENZOAPYRÈNE

Mr Sorbara moved first reading of Bill 70, An Act to require the Minister of the Environment to direct an Investigation into the Deleterious Human Health Effects of Exposure to Benzoapyrene / Loi enjoignant au ministre de l'Environnement d'ordonner une enquête déterminant les effets néfastes du benzoapyrène sur la santé des humains qui y sont exposés.

Motion agreed to.

TASK FORCE ON ONTARIO BANKRUPTCIES AND INSOLVENCIES REVIEW AND INQUIRY ACT, 1992 / LOI DE 1992 SUR LE GROUPE DE TRAVAIL CHARGÉ D'ENQUÊTER SUR LES FAILLITES ET LES SITUATIONS D'INSOLVABILITÉ EN ONTARIO

Mr David Turnbull (York Mills): I move first reading of Bill 71, An Act respecting the establishment of an inquiry into the role of provincial taxation, regulatory and labour policies in the bankruptcies and insolvencies of selected Ontario companies for the period from the 6th day of September, 1990 until the end of March, 1992 including:

A & B Office Equipment Leasing Co Ltd, A & L Commercial Cable Inc, A & T Consulting Ltd, A L Associates Advertising & Marketing Ltd, Academy Holdings Ltd, Agrylux Paints Limited, Action Retail Stores Ltd, Ad Vantage Signs Ltd, Adsetts Retail Enterprises Inc, Advance Business Centre Limited, Advance Gas Tank Industries Inc, Aerial Platforms Ltd, Aerometals Inc, Agassiz Resources Ltd, Agincourt Jewellers Limited, Air Atonabee Limited, Al Schwartz Enterprises Limited, Alair Laboratories Ltd, Alanna's Enterprises Incorporated, Alex L Glass Limited, Alfred Packers Ltd, All Seasons Holiday Limited, All Type Truckers Supply Inc, Alta Communication Systems Inc, Alta Signs & Manufacturing Corp, Aluminum "84" Ltd, American Fabrics Limited, Amtop Enterprises Inc;

Andy's Excavating Limited, Angelo Retail Corporation, Angelo's Hardware Limited, Anjam Enterprises Inc, Ankles Shoes Ltd, Annette Village Inc, Annette Village Investments Limited, Anz Restaurants (Orangeville) Ltd, Anz Restaurants (Simcoe) Ltd, Archie Gibson Trucking Limited, Aristar Communications Corporation, Aristograf Grapics Inc, Art Light Co Limited, Arthur Reynolds Enterprises Limited, Arthurs Publications Limited, Artistic Restaurant Equipment Ltd, Artwork Landscape Contractors Ltd, ASAP Computer Products Ltd, Ascona Spinning Ltd, Astin Garden Centre Ltd, Atlas Carbon and Ribbon Limited, Augdome Corporation Limited, Auto Lynn Ltd, Auto Ville Leasing, Aux Habits Hawkesbury Suit Inc, AVACS Cellular Network Inc, Avant Kitchen Gallery Inc, Ayre's Limited;

B & M Construction Inc, B J Larken Inc, Balloon Busters (Newmarket) Ltd, Balloon Busters (Toronto) Ltd, Barbazon Sales Inc, Bargain Harold's Discount Limited, Barney's Antiques Ltd, Barrymore's Imperial Theatre Ltd, Bartram Wood Limited, Battle Investments Inc, Beacon Hill Building Cleaning Ltd, Beautiful Creations Unlimited Inc, Belleville Furniture & Appliances Limited, Bellini Kitchens Ltd, Belvedere Kitchens Limited, Bergeron General Contractors Inc, Bestway Kitchens Limited, Better Living Furniture Warehouse Limited, Big Boy Electronics Ltd, Bildon Designs Co Limited, Bill Howett Pontiac Buick Limited, Bill Thompson Transport Limited, Binac Canada Metallurgical Limited;

Bob Bannerman Motors (Hamilton) Inc, Bob Walker Screen Supplies Ltd, Bornemann Mechanical Inc, Bottoms Up Diaper Service Inc, Bovines Ltd, Bradley Computax Inc, Brandlake Products Limited, Bratti Mechanical Inc, Brian Beattie Motors Ltd, Brian Martineau Retailing Ltd, Bright Interiors & Bright Closets & Furniture, Brikens Gifts Inc, Brites Furniture Warehouse (Dundas) Inc, British Upholstery Ltd, Brokon Inc, Brown Business Centre Inc, Brown Holdings J & D Limited, Brownco Textiles Incorporated, Brox's Olde Town Village Co Ltd, Bruce County Dodge Chrysler Limited, Buchanan Footprints Inc, Burl Oak Tire Inc, Burlington Business Computers Inc, Burwood Co Limited (The), Byrne Glass Enterprises Limited;

C. Pagani Construction Limited, C. Clarke Cartage Limited, CN Shoes Limited, Cadillac Lumber Limited, Caesar Shoes and Leather Goods Corporation, Caledon Chrysler Dodge Limited, Caledon East Feed Mill (1989) Ltd, Caledonia Plymouth Chrysler Ltd, Calenox Information Systems Inc, Cambridge Fine Cars Inc, Cameo Interiors Limited, Cameron Masonry Incorporated, Can Europe Gem --

Mr Gregory S. Sorbara (York Centre): On a point of order, Mr Speaker: I'm writing as fast as I can. I'm trying to get all these names down. Could the member read just a little more slowly? I'm having a very difficult time. We're only on the Cs and my hand is already worn out.

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The Deputy Speaker (Mr Gilles E. Morin): Please take your seat. The member for York Mills, you have the floor.

Mr Turnbull: -- Consultants Inc, Canada Lease Financing Ltd, Canadian Aircraft & Auto Co Inc, Canadian Atlas Furniture Inc, Canadian Court Consultants Ltd, Canadian Fish Finders Limited --

Interjections.

Mr Turnbull: I have to stop for a moment. The bears seem to be getting a little bit restless over there. They don't appreciate --

The Deputy Speaker: It is the responsibility of the Speaker to make sure that order is kept in the House. Thank you for your help. I would ask you to keep on reading your bill.

Mr Turnbull: -- Canadian Met Craft Industries Limited, Canadian Polyols International Inc, Cancorp Financial Services Ltd, Candie Enterprises Ltd, Candlelight Mechanical Limited, Cango Petroleums Inc, Cango Petroleums Limited Partnership, Cango Petroleums Ltd, Capital City Rustproofing Limited, Capri Kitchens Limited, Cardon Rose Inc, Caredin Construction Ltd, Carlaw Footwear (1980) Limited, Carley and Katz Limited, Carpet Doctor Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Ltd, Carpet Systems International Inc, Carter Cathcart Advertising Ltd, Cartoon Classics Toys Corporation, Case Jones Inc, Casselman Realties Ltd, Castle/Black Paper Group Inc, Casual Joe's Resort Wear and Souvenirs Inc, Caver Tree Service Limited;

C B Carpentry & Renovations Ltd, CBN Financial Group Ltd, Ceaser's Banquets at the Tannery Inc, Century 21 Lakevista Realty Inc, Century 21 Marquis Realty Ltd, Century 21 Morehouse Realty Inc, Century Anaheim Properties Inc, Century Apalache Development Inc, Century Imperial Properties Inc, Century Kitchens Inc, Century Marie Properties Inc, Century Peda Developments Ltd, Cereston Incorporated, Challenger Industries Inc, Charamonte Foods Distributors Ltd, Chatelaine Kitchen Design Ltd, Checkers Smoke & Gift Inc, Chelsea Interiors Incorporated, Chez Josette Ltd, Chiu Brothers Company Ltd, Christopher Pallett Design Group Limited, Christopher Printing (Canada) Inc, Christopher's Pies & Fries Inc;

Cinners Cinnamon Buns and Croissants, City Metal Fabrication Limited, City Scapes Inc, Clair Displays Screen Printers Inc, Claredon Capital Investments Inc, Classic Cargo Systems Canada Inc, Classic China Ltd, Claxton's Clothiers Ltd, Cliff & Walters Lithographing Co Ltd, Climate Holidays Travel Inc, Clinton's Flowers & Gifts Ltd, Club West Inc, Cobra Seats Ltd, Colacon Investments Ltd, Colin Hine Automobiles Ltd, College Copy Shop Limited, Commercial Truck Parts Ltd, Commercial Truck Sales Ltd, Commercial Vending (Sarnia) Ltd, Commex Manufacturing Inc, Compucon Construction Corp, Computer Class Corporation, Conlin Engineering and Planning Ltd, Consumer Black Top Paving Limited, Consumers Millwork Co Limited, Contempra Gift Stores Limited, Coopers Draperies & Rugs Limited, Coral Place Ltd.

I'm putting a little bit more oomph than the Premier did, who beetles off today without answering questions. Of course, we on this side have a lot less to hide than you on that side.

Cord King of Canada Inc, Cordova Auto Collision Ltd, Countrywide Realty Network Inc, Courtice Construction Limited, Craftline International Limited, Creative Impulse Advertising Ltd, Creative Impulse Graphics Ltd, Creative Impulse Ltd, Creative Impulse Printing Ltd, Creeds Limited, Crema Furniture Ltd, Crown Millwork Ltd, CTEC Transport Systems Ltd, Cuisine Select Inc, Custom Cakes & Catering Inc, Custom Filling & Manufacturing Inc, Custom Holdings Ltd, Custom Truck Bodies Limited, Customcraft Division of Pracomm Refinements Inc;

D J's Blended Seasons Limited, D. Richards & Associates Advertising Limited, D & C Roussy Industries Ltd, D & S Mangan Investments Inc, Dacol Industrial Limited, Dala Distributors Inc, Dale Cor Trucking Inc, Dan & Son Fine Cars Inc, Dansilt Construction Ltd, Daniels (Front Street) Corporation, Daniels Development Corporation, Danrich Developments Inc, Data Ribbon Limited, Datem Ltd, Davchelle Enterprises Ltd, Dave Gibbon General Contracting Ltd, David Aaron Novick and Associates Architects (CDA) Inc, David Gary Clothier Ltd, D & M Heating & Air Conditioning Ltd, D & M Mechanical Ltd, Deakin Pools Limited, Dealing Dan's Stereo & TV Ltd, Deborah Rose Infant Toddler Day Care Inc, Deer Run Outfitters Co Limited, Del Mar Clothes Limited, Delmon Capital Group Limited, Delta Pharmaceuticals Canada Limited, Delta '70 Manufacturing Limited, Denelle Holdings Ltd, Derbyshire Healey Refrigeration Limited, Derick Transport Inc, Dessil Management Inc, Design Concepts by Miriam Muller Inc, Design Dynamics (1988) Ltd --

1700

Mrs Yvonne O'Neill (Ottawa-Rideau): On a point of order, Mr Speaker: I am not sure there is a quorum present.

The Deputy Speaker: I will ask the table if there is a quorum.

A quorum is present.

Mr Turnbull: -- Dessert Craft Products Corp, Devcar Graphics Inc, Diana Temple Fashions Inc, Die Tram Tool Limited, Display & Exhibit Canada Ltd, Diversified Impressions, Diversified Outreach Inc, Diversified Store Fixtures Inc, Do Mi Ti Investments Limited, Doctor Music Limited, Docu Serve Associates Ltd, Dohani Cabinet Creations Inc, Dominion Fittings Mfg Ltd, Dominion Paving Limited, Don Carlos Men's Wear Limited, Don Carriere Equipment Ltd, Donald V. Gross Enterprises Limited, Doug Ross Cartage Limited, Dovehaven Custom Wood Working Limited, Drexel Burnham Lambert Canada Inc.

Mr Speaker, I do have some concerns about all of these waters that have appeared. Since they do come from behind the NDP's benches, I would hope these are pure water. We know what they've got.

The Deputy Speaker: Please, your responsibility is to read your bill.

Mr Turnbull: Okay. Dual Video Inc, Dundas Engineering Services Ltd, Dunedin Carpet Corporation, Dunlop Construction Products Inc, Dunmore Furniture Company Limited, Dupont Paper Box Limited, Durham Doors Ltd, Dustmar Holding Ltd, Dynatronix Limited, Eagle Fire Suppression Systems Limited, East Way Auto Collision Centre Ltd, Eastern Wire Products Ltd, Eastway Motors (Hamilton) Limited, Easy Fashions Ltd, Economy Store Fixtures Limited --

Hon Bud Wildman (Minister of Natural Resources and Minister Responsible for Native Affairs): Mr Speaker, he is making a good case for rule changes.

Ms Dianne Poole (Eglinton): On a point of order, Mr Speaker: The member for Algoma was interfering with interjections, so I cannot hear the member for York Mills, and I really am interested in this.

The Deputy Speaker: Thank you.

Mr Turnbull: -- Edlor Crafts Inc, Eglinton Village Limited, Elan Corporation and Nova Metal Products Inc, Elements of Style 111 Ltd, Elks Inc, Enerfit Insulated Wall Structures Inc, Erik Contracting Inc, Erjo Central Athletic Ltd, ESC (Myles) Inc, Escalight Yogourt Ltd, Esprit Translation Ltd --

I beg your pardon, that should read -- yes, translation. Sorry.

Mr Bernard Grandmaître (Ottawa East): Start over again.

Mr Turnbull: Yes, maybe I should.

Essential Business Products, Essential Paper Limited, Euro Ceramics Ltd, Eurodesign Clothing Company Ltd, Eversonic Inc, Everspec Surfaces Limited, Exceltronix Computing Inc, Execupart Limited, Exotic Laminates Incorporated, Exus Holdings Ltd;

F & C Construction & Renovations Limited, F/K Heating & Cooling Inc, Fabricated Structural Components Inc, Fair Way Discount Centre Ltd, Farlawn Knit Manufacturing (1982) Inc, Family Group Financial (1988) Inc, Fanning Family Enterprises Inc, Fashion Designs by Ricardo Ltd, Fashion Optics Inc, Fashion Wear (1986) Inc, Fast Fix Commercial Equipment Repair Inc, Fern's Plumbing & Heating (BJW) Inc, Finch Centre Draperies Ltd, First Toronto Mining Corporation, Fitnessland Inc, Flamingo Road Cabaret Inc;

Forest City International Trucks Ltd, Forms Management Services Ltd, Fortex Investments Inc, Fortune Star Chinese Restaurant Ltd, Foulds Bros Co Limited, Fourkinder Investments Ltd, Framar Caterers Ltd, Frameguild Custom Framing Inc, Frameland Ltd, Francine Footwear Limited, Francoz Metal Corporation Ltd, Frank Furlano Auto Repair Ltd, Frank Stevens Transmissions Ltd, Freeport Roofing and Contracting Ltd, Freightliner Truck Centre (Toronto) Limited, Furama Chinese Restaurant Ltd;

G. Allan Stewart Enterprises Limited, G. Ropat Construction Windsor Ltd, G & L Machine & Welding Shop, G. L. Construction Ltd, Gaetan Jodoir Construction Inc, Gara Printing Inc, Garo Limited, Gary Scobie International Trucking Corporation, Gasco Manufacturing Ltd, Gateway Express Limited, Gee & Gee Advertising Inc, General Trade Bindery Ltd, Genex Programmable Advertising Inc, George's Interiors Limited, Gestion Richard Fortier Ltd, GFC Power Ltd;

Gil's Fine Foods (1986) Limited, Gils Limited, Gilles Cable Contractor (1988) Limited, Ginger's Bath and Closet Accessories Limited, Gingras Drywall Ltd, Globe Air Heating & Air Conditioning Ltd, Goldberg and Weisdorf Limited, Goldschmid Electric Ltd, Goodness Gracious Restaurant Ltd -- that's quite appropriate, Goodness Gracious, because I just saw Goldschmid Electric Ltd, a company that did work for me, Mr Speaker. It's really to the point of this.

Governor's Mechanical Inc, Gow's Restaurant (1983) Ltd, Graham Long Ltd, Grand Italian Supermarket Ltd, Grant Brown Cadillac Pontiac Buick Ltd, Graphline Graphics Inc, Great Lakes Fleet Service, Great Lakes Marine Contracting Limited, Great North Conservation Products Inc, Green Gables (Ontario) Limited, Green Seal Office Supplies Limited, Guardian Collision Center Ltd, Gurney Farm Services Limited, Guy Grasseur Limited, Gypsum Tech Systems Inc;

Half Time Sports Inc, Hamilton Modular Buildings Inc, Hamilton Mountain Autohaus Inc, Harbour Fashions Limited, Harry Smith's Insurance Brokers Inc, Hart Marine Ltd, Hayes Mechanical Systems Ltd, Health First Doctor's Office Partnership I, Heatsaver Systems Inc, Hellenic Sports Depot Ltd, Herry's Rent A Car Inc, Heritage Whitby Realty Limited, Herman Louter Inc, Hevac Fireplace Furnace Mfg Ltd, Hickory Lane Construction Ltd, High Line Data Systems Inc, Highland Creek Catering Limited, Highstyle Investments Ltd, Hillwell Manufacturing Inc, Hillwell Systems Inc, Hip Hip Hooray Inc, Hitech Erectors Incorporated, Homelife/Dynasty Realty Inc, Homelife/Supreme Realty Inc, Homelife/Tri Corp Realty Ltd, Horsefeathers Inc, House of Appel Fur (1985) Inc, Howarth & Smith Limited, Hubacco Investments Inc, Humber Automotive (1989) Ltd, Huntington's House of Fashion Inc, Hypermedia Productions Inc;

1710

I Magine Gems Inc, Iben Investments Limited, Ilma Verde Fashions Ltd, Image Plus Graphics Inc, Impact Manufacturing Limited, Impress Plastics Ltd, Independent Carriers Group Inc, Independent Wholesale Caterers Ltd, Info Guard Limited, Innovative Chair Designs Inc, Innovative Design Technologies Inc, Insight Planners Inc, Insta Vend Inc, Installex Telecommunications Services Inc, Interfax Financial Services Limited, Interior Techniques Inc, Interlake Steel Products Inc, Interline Masonry Ltd, International Golf Contractors Inc, International Robotic Manufacturing Limited, International Sports Medicine Centre Inc, Interprovincial Fire Protection Inc, ISS Equipment Company Limited, Ital Design Marble and Granite Inc;

J. Adams Overhead Garage Doors Ltd, J. Malkin Drugs Limited, J & L Romano Limited, J & S Golf Care Services Limited, J. A. Hamilton Management & Investment Ltd, J. Atlas Roofing Ltd, J. B. Corner Inc, J. B. F. Restaurant Incorporated, J. Jeffrey Antiques & Gifts Ltd, J. M. Ore Dressing Equipment Company Limited, J. N. Casting & Jewellery Ltd, Jack Roberts Marketing Services Limited, Jacobsen Books & News Inc, Jacoles Sylvain Roofing & Plastering Ltd, JDA Equipment Repairs Ltd, Jemway Forwarding Inc, Jetstream Freightways Limited, Jev Contracting Limited, Jev II Limited, JHL Steel Products Ltd, JHL Set Consulting Services Inc, Jocelyne Assad Enterprises Inc, Joclair Ltd, John Blair Marine Specialities Inc, John Wheelwright Limited, Jonas & Erickson Software Technology Inc, Jonathan Miller Fashion Marketing Inc, Jonhanson Sports Ltd, Jordan Electric Limited, Joro (K. L.) Limited "The Style Shop", JRK Expositions Inc, Julia's Kitchen & Bath Design Inc, Junior Swank (Scarborough) Ltd, Juniper Heritage Services Ltd, Jupiter Chair Mfg Ltd, Jutro Construction Limited, Juvenile Junction Ltd;

K 10 Enterprises Limited, Kamport Enterprises Inc, Kamron Holdings Inc, Kanata Mirror & Glass Ltd, Kappa Signa Inc, Kapto Restaurants Limited, Kargun Inc, Karl's TV of Orillia Limited, Kathleen Lynch Enterprises Inc, Keeper Souvenirs Ltd, Ken Mason Marine Services Ltd, Ken Wilson Aircraft Sales Ltd, Kettle Creek Canvas Co Ltd, Key Pointe Retail Group Limited Partnership, Keyboard Music Centre Inc (The), Kiddie Kastle Inc, Kiddies Kastle Inc, Kiddy Warehouse Concept Inc, King Dom Health Spa Corporation, Kirey & Wilson Manufacturing Inc, Kirwan's Sports World Ltd, Kitchen Artisans Ltd, Kitchen World Kitchens Inc, Kuckartz Carpentry Ltd;

L C Charco Inc, L'Abee Construction (Ontario) Ltd, L'Amour Lingerie Corporation, La Belle Boutique Inc, La Cheminee Dining Lounge Inc, La Finesse Furniture Company Limited, La Mode De Vija Inc, Lacasse Enterprises Inc, Lackie's Marina Limited, Lackies of Lake Simcoe Inc, Lackies on the Bay Inc, Lajax Fashions Limited, Lakeshore Fruit Toronto Limited, Landscape Liaison Ltd, Lang Roofing Inc, Lanorth Corporation, Las Italian Office Furnishings Inc, Laser Direct Inc, LaWest Fashions Ltd, Lawrason's Chemicals Ltd, Lees Restaurant Equipment Company Ltd, Lehmann Tool & Mould Incorporated, Leib Service Printings Limited, Les Goudrons Jean Louis Parent (1985) Ltee, Liftech Equipment Co Ltd, Liftech Services Limited, Lightside Foods Inc, Lignoplex Canada Inc, Lillian Letourneau's Contemporary Kitchens Inc, Linea Giusta Fashions Ltd, Lionel Villeneuve Heating Supplies Limited, Litho Blankets Ltd, Little Wise Owl Educational Toys & Books Ltd, Livewire Electrical Wholesale Stores Inc, Logics Holdings Inc, London Acoustics Limited, London Area Products Ltd, London Kitchen Gallery Inc, Lora Lane Group Inc --

Ms Dianne Poole (Eglinton): On a point of order, Mr Speaker: The member for York Mills is reading from quite a lengthy list in the introduction of bills. I wonder if he could confirm that the beginning of his preamble is a list of bankruptcies in Ontario?

Mr Turnbull: I think that's a very good point the member for Eglinton makes. Indeed this is.

The Deputy Speaker: Please read your bill.

Mr Turnbull: It includes in the bill the list of names of bankruptcies in this province.

The Deputy Speaker: Order. You haven't been asked to make a statement. I'm asking you to read your bill, please.

Mr Turnbull: Lord & Burnham Inc, Los Primo Ltd, Ludwig & Son Roofing Ltd, Lurose Restaurants Inc, M & Al Roofing Ltd, M J Automotive Inc, MJK Industries Inc, Macro Engineering Co Ltd, Major Video Canada Inc, Maker Electric Limited, Maker Mechanical Services Limited, Malcolm Black Equipment Limited, Manselle Ladies' Wear Ltd, Man Sai Enterprises Inc, Mandem Inc, Manes Brothers Construction Ltd, Manhire Industrial Services Ltd, Manotick Tire Serives (Kingston) Ltd, Manufacturers Apparel Outlet Inc, Maple Precast Limited, Marathon Equipment Ltd, Marketcom Inc, Markville Transmission Clinic Ltd, Marshall Refrigeration Co Limited, Massao's Sports & Cycle Ltd, Masuko International Corp, Mater's Management Ltd, Matrik Marble & Tile Ltd, Matthews Nova Trucking Limited, Maxiprest Canada Inc, Maxwell Diversified Industries Ltd, McKay Metallurgical Limited, McLean Converting Company Limited, McLean Converting Hospital Division Ltd, McLean Hannah Studios Ltd, McLeod Bishop Systems Ltd, Media Decisions Inc, Media Specialists Limited, Medic Demand Partnership;

Mediquip Healthcare Inc, Mediterranean Interiors Furniture Warehouse & Showroom Ltd, Medler McKay Holdings Ltd, Mega Plumbing (1938) Limited, Mender Developments Limited, Mercier Agri Centre Inc, Merit Automotive Products Limited, Metcalfe Slender Vision Unisex Salon Ltd, Metrospeed International Courier Corporation, Michael Askin and Company Inc, Michael Henry Clothiers Ltd, Mighty Container Ltd, Miles MacDonald & Sons Plumbing & Heating, Miller Financial Corp, Millstone Trucking Ltd, Milton Bridge Limited, Milton Spring and Suspension Inc, Ming Hong Herbal Centre Ltd, Mintz Investments Limited, Mipa Group Limited (The), Miracom Communications Inc, Mississauga Builders Hardware Midway Ltd, Mississauga Builders' Hardware Limited;

Mississauga Jeep Eagle (1990) Ltd, Mister Real Estate Inc, Montego Forest Products Limited, Monty's Electric Supply Co Ltd, Morewood Industries Limited, Moureaux Hauspy Forrest Design Inc, Mr Chips & His Fish Ltd, Mulvey & Canani Information Services, Mulvey Engineering Limited, Munro Meats & Produce Limited --

1720

Interjections.

Ms Dianne Poole (Eglinton): On a point of order, Mr Speaker: Standing orders expressly prohibit interjections. Not only is the member for Yorkview interjecting, but he's interjecting from a seat other than his own. I think on both points of order that you should rule.

The Acting Speaker (Mr Noble Villeneuve): You have a very valid point of order. The honourable member for Yorkview is not in his seat, and of course interjections, particularly when a member is not in his seat, are totally out of order. The honourable member for York Mills is presenting a bill. The honourable member for York Mills has the floor.

Mr Turnbull: Thank you, Mr Speaker.

-- National Bindery Systems Ltd, Natmich Investments Limited, Near North Bowling Centre Inc, Nelan Investments Limited, Nethercott Lee Volkswagen Ltd, Network Copy Systems Inc, Nevasco Industries Inc, Newbank Group Ltd, Newgen Service Systems Inc, Newman Steel Ltd, Niagara Knitting Inc, Nielsen Computers Inc, Niemi Textile Inc, Nora Leathers Ltd, Norman Morrison Advertising Ltd, Normandeau Carpet, Wallpaper & Ceramic Tile Centre Ltd, NRS Advantage Inc, NRS Esprit Realty Inc, NRS Progressive Realty Inc, NRS Realty Relocations Inc, NRS Rosehood Real Estate Ltd;

Oakstar Transportation Systems and Oakstar Enterprises, Oakville Optical Limited, OEP (Toronto) Inc, Ogilvie Roadhouse Limited, Old Mill Food Centre Inc, Omega Apparel (1988) Inc, Omni Restaurants Inc, Omni Stone Corporation, Omnitron (Cornwall) Inc, One Stop Rent All Ltd, Optex Corporation, Orangeroof Limited, Orient Express (Windsor) Inc, Ottawa Direct Marketing Publications Inc, Ottawa Lawn Pro Ltd, Ottawa Renaissance Development Corporation, Our Neighbourhood Publishing Co Inc, Overtime Sports Inc, Owen Sound Business Machines Inc, Oxford Stereo & TV Ltd;

P & B Daniels Interiors Inc, P. Chartrand & Sons Limited, PD Dynasty Jewels Ltd, P. Taylor Landscape Development Company Ltd, Pacer Panel Systems Inc, Pack All International Inc, Paddintong's Bed and Bath Inc, Palm Pools Ltd, Pamar Marbleceramic Ltd, Pantrem Jeanswear International Inc, Pape Black Kent Clothes Limited, Paradise Shoes Inc, Paragon Designs Limited, Paris Brick Company Limited, Paris & Roma Men's Fashions Limited, Parkinson Publishing Inc, Patrie Builders and Renovators Limited, Patron Contracting Limited, Paul Bernard Company Limited, Penson Farm Equipment Ltd, Penta Shoes --

Interjections.

Mr Turnbull: Mr Speaker, I believe you've already given an admonition to one of these people across the floor for interjecting, particularly when they're not in their seats. I direct your attention to that.

The Acting Speaker: Order, please. I know this is a rather long bill and I can appreciate why some people are interjecting but you well know, as members of this Legislative Assembly, that interjections are out of order. The honourable member for York Mills is presenting a bill, a bill of some importance, because he's mentioning many, many corporate entities. Please allow the honourable member the time and the --

Mr Anthony Perruzza (Downsview): Mr Speaker, this is the single most important thing he has ever done.

The Acting Speaker: The honourable member is not in his seat. I'm sorry I can't recognize him. The honourable member for York Mills has the floor in introduction of bills. The member for York Mills.

Mr Turnbull: Thank you, Mr Speaker.

-- Pentagon Merchandising Industries Ltd, Peppers Food Fair Limited, Perkins Motors Limited, Perry Originals Incorporated, Pete's Garden and Fruitland Limited, Peter Ferguson Limited, Peter Landsman & Associates Inc, Peter's Place Inc, PG Warehousing Inc, Pickering Rotisserie Company Limited, Pink Elephant Holdings Limited, Pink Pearl (North York) Ltd, Pint Sizes Ltd, Piontek Inc, Platisoons Investments Inc, Pleasing Dreams Ltd, Polysten International Inc;

Por Ita Construction Ltd, Portside Seafood Inc, PPH Precision Plumbing & Heating Inc, Practical Electric (1986) Inc, Precise Communications Inc, Preston & Lieff Glass Limited, Preston Brock Manufacturing Co Ltd, Print City Inc, Prism Yachts Inc, Pro Golf of Canada Inc, Pro Heating & Air Conditioning Ltd, Pro Reflections Inc, Pro Transportation Consultants Inc, Provincial Crane Inc, Prudential Lease Funding Inc, Purdy Plumbing Inc, Purezone Inc;

RCI Limited, RF Shielding Inc, RJ Siberry Ltd, RMS Fabricating Inc, Radio Television Representatives Limited, Rag Tag --

Mr Perruzza: On a point of order, Mr Speaker: Would it be in order if we unanimously agreed to pass this bill and you dispensed with reading it so he can get what he wants?

1730

The Acting Speaker: Sorry, that's not a point of order. The honourable member for York Mills is presenting a bill. He has the floor and I would respectfully ask all members to respect the honourable member for York Mills as he presents this bill. The honourable member for York Mills has the floor.

On a point of order? The honourable Minister of Natural Resources.

Hon Bud Wildman (Minister of Natural Resources): On a point of order, Mr Speaker: I wonder if you could help me. The member in reading his bill is reading a large number of names of corporations. I wonder if it would be more appropriate for him to also include their addresses.

The Acting Speaker: That's not really a point of order. The bill is already written in due and acceptable form.

Mr Norman W. Sterling (Carleton): I wish the government members would quit interrupting the member so we can get on with the business of the House.

The Acting Speaker: The honourable member for York Mills has the floor. Please give him the opportunity of presenting his bill.

Mr Turnbull: It would indeed be good if we could give addresses, but in fact these companies are out of business since this government came to power, so they don't have an address any more.

-- Radio Television Representatives Limited, Rag Tag Panic Wear (1990) Ltd, Rajesky Realty Ltd, Ray Furniture & Interiors Limited, Realty 2001 Developments Limited, Realty 2001 Inc, Regatta Yacht Sales (East) Ltd, Regatta Yacht Sales (West) Ltd, Regatta Yacht Sales Ltd, Regency Foodmarts Inc, Reliable Installations --

Interjections.

The Acting Speaker: Order, please. The honourable member for York Mills has the floor and there is a terrible amount of noise here. The Speaker can't hear.

Mr Perruzza: On a point of order, Mr Speaker: I'm wondering, through you, if it would be in order to find out how many man-hours went into the preparation of that bill, because I'd like to know how much taxpayers' money was wasted on that.

The Acting Speaker: It's not a point of order; it's the normal business of this Legislature. The honourable member for York Mills has the floor.

Mr Turnbull: Indeed, it is a shame. These were taxpayers. They're not taxpayers any more because they're bankrupt since this government has been in power.

-- Dismantle, Remax Achievers Inc, Remax Central Realty Inc, Remax Choice Realty Ltd, Rent A Room Inc, Revel Luminaires Limited, Rex Forming Limited, Rexcraft Rivers Edge Corporation, Richmond Heights Interiors Limited, Ridgeway Collision Inc, Ritz Mangement Inc, Riverside Dental Inc, Road Music & Promotion Agency Ltd, Robbin Lloyd Switzer Sales Inc, Robert Andrew Monteith Inc, Robert E. Simpson Supply Limited, Roberts & Deacon Saw Company Limited, Robin Edward Charles Clarke Limited, Robinson & Jones Insurance Agency Limited, Roboak Holding Inc, Rolmaster Conveyors Ltd, Ron Ellis Sports Inc, Ron Inglis Homes Limited, Ronart Trading Limited, Rosemes Electric Supply Limited, Rotom of Canada Ltd, Royal City Chrysler Plymouth Limited, Royal City Material Handling Ltd, Royal Woodbine Golf Corporation, Rozar Boutique Ltd, Ruby's Food Services Limited, Ruhl Transportation Technologies Inc, Ross Oliver Jewellery Limited, S. C. Building Products Limited, S. Rotamn Enterprises Limited, S. A. M. Silk Flower Co Ltd, S. L. V. Slender You, Sagar Linens Inc, Sage Baccarat Inc, Samic (Canada) Limited in the period from September 1990 to March 1992.

That is my bill and I ask that it now be read for the first time, Mr Speaker.

The Acting Speaker: Mr Turnbull has moved the Task Force on Ontario Bankruptcies and Insolvencies Review and Inquiry Act, 1992.

Interjections: Dispense.

The Acting Speaker: It's my understanding that the bill has to be read by the Speaker.

Interjections.

The Acting Speaker: An Act respecting the establishment of an inquiry into the role of provincial taxation regulatory and labour policies in the bankruptcies and insolvencies of selected Ontario companies for the period from September 6, 1990 until the end of March 1992 including:

A & B Office Equipment Leasing Co Ltd, A & L Commercial Cable Inc, A & T Consulting Ltd, A L Associates Advertising & Marketing Ltd, Academy Holdings Ltd, Agrylux Paints Limited, Action Retail Stores Ltd, Ad Vantage Signs Ltd, Adsetts Retail Enterprises Inc, Advance Business Centre Limited, Advance Gas Tank Industries Inc, Aerial Platforms Ltd, Aerometals Inc, Agassiz Resources Ltd, Agincourt Jewellers Limited, Air Atonabee Limited, Al Schwartz Enterprises Limited, Alair Laboratories Ltd, Alanna's Enterprises Incorporated, Alex L Glass Limited, Alfred Packers Ltd, All Seasons Holiday Limited, All Type Truckers Supply Inc, Alta Communication Systems Inc, Alta Signs & Manufacturing Corp, Aluminum "84" Ltd, American Fabrics Limited, Amtop Enterprises Inc;

Andy's Excavating Limited, Angelo Retail Corporation, Angelo's Hardware Limited, Anjam Enterprises Inc, Ankles Shoes Ltd, Annette Village Inc, Annette Village Investments Limited, Anz Restaurants (Orangeville) Ltd, Anz Restaurants (Simcoe) Ltd, Archie Gibson Trucking Limited, Aristar Communications Corporation, Aristograf Grapics Inc, Art Light Co Limited, Arthur Reynolds Enterprises Limited, Arthurs Publications Limited, Artistic Restaurant Equipment Ltd, Artwork Landscape Contractors Ltd, ASAP Computer Products Ltd, Ascona Spinning Ltd, Astin Garden Centre Ltd, Atlas Carbon and Ribbon Limited, Augdome Corporation Limited, Auto Lynn Ltd, Auto Ville Leasing, Aux Habits Hawkesbury Suit Inc, AVACS Cellular Network Inc, Avant Kitchen Gallery Inc, Ayre's Limited;

B & M Construction Inc, B J Larken Inc, Balloon Busters (Newmarket) Ltd, Balloon Busters (Toronto) Ltd, Barbazon Sales Inc, Bargain Harold's Discount Limited, Barney's Antiques Ltd, Barrymore's Imperial Theatre Ltd, Bartram Wood Limited, Battle Investments Inc, Beacon Hill Building Cleaning Ltd, Beautiful Creations Unlimited Inc, Belleville Furniture & Appliances Limited, Bellini Kitchens Ltd, Belvedere Kitchens Limited, Bergeron General Contractors Inc, Bestway Kitchens Limited, Better Living Furniture Warehouse Limited, Big Boy Electronics Ltd, Bildon Designs Co Limited, Bill Howett Pontiac Buick Limited, Bill Thompson Transport Limited, Binac Canada Metallurgical Limited;

Bob Bannerman Motors (Hamilton) Inc, Bob Walker Screen Supplies Ltd, Bornemann Mechanical Inc, Bottoms Up Diaper Service Inc, Bovines Ltd, Bradley Computax Inc, Brandlake Products Limited, Bratti Mechanical Inc, Brian Beattie Motors Ltd, Brian Martineau Retailing Ltd, Bright Interiors & Bright Closets & Furniture, Brikens Gifts Inc, Brites Furniture Warehouse (Dundas) Inc, British Upholstery Ltd, Brokon Inc, Brown Business Centre Inc, Brown Holdings J & D Limited, Brownco Textiles Incorporated, Brox's Olde Town Village Co Ltd, Bruce County Dodge Chrysler Limited, Buchanan Footprints Inc, Burl Oak Tire Inc, Burlington Business Computers Inc, Burwood Co Limited (The), Byrne Glass Enterprises Limited;

C. Pagani Construction Limited, C. Clarke Cartage Limited, CN Shoes Limited, Cadillac Lumber Limited, Caesar Shoes and Leather Goods Corporation, Caledon Chrysler Dodge Limited, Caledon East Feed Mill (1989) Ltd, Caledonia Plymouth Chrysler Ltd, Calenox Information Systems Inc, Cambridge Fine Cars Inc, Cameo Interiors Limited, Cameron Masonry Incorporated, Can Europe Gem Consultants Inc, Canada Lease Financing Ltd, Canadian Aircraft & Auto Co Inc, Canadian Atlas Furniture Inc, Canadian Court Consultants Ltd, Canadian Fish Finders Limited.

Canadian Met Craft Industries Limited, Canadian Polyols International Inc, Cancorp Financial Services Ltd, Candie Enterprises Ltd, Candlelight Mechanical Limited, Cango Petroleums Inc, Cango Petroleums Limited Partnership, Cango Petroleums Ltd, Capital City Rustproofing Limited, Capri Kitchens Limited, Cardon Rose Inc, Caredin Construction Ltd, Carlaw Footwear (1980) Limited, Carley and Katz Limited, Carpet Doctor Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Ltd, Carpet Systems International Inc, Carter Cathcart Advertising Ltd, Cartoon Classics Toys Corporation, Case Jones Inc, Casselman Realties Ltd, Castle/Black Paper Group Inc, Casual Joe's Resort Wear and Souvenirs Inc, Caver Tree Service Limited;

C B Carpentry & Renovations Ltd, CBN Financial Group Ltd, Ceaser's Banquets at the Tannery Inc, Century 21 Lakevista Realty Inc, Century 21 Marquis Realty Ltd, Century 21 Morehouse Realty Inc, Century Anaheim Properties Inc, Century Apalache Development Inc, Century Imperial Properties Inc, Century Kitchens Inc, Century Marie Properties Inc, Century Peda Developments Ltd, Cereston Incorporated, Challenger Industries Inc, Charamonte Foods Distributors Ltd, Chatelaine Kitchen Design Ltd, Checkers Smoke & Gift Inc, Chelsea Interiors Incorporated, Chez Josette Ltd, Chiu Brothers Company Ltd, Christopher Pallett Design Group Limited, Christopher Printing (Canada) Inc, Christopher's Pies & Fries Inc;

1740

Cinners Cinnamon Buns and Croissants, City Metal Fabrication Limited, City Scapes Inc, Clair Displays Screen Printers Inc, Claredon Capital Investments Inc, Classic Cargo Systems Canada Inc, Classic China Ltd, Claxton's Clothiers Ltd, Cliff & Walters Lithographing Co Ltd, Climate Holidays Travel Inc, Clinton's Flowers & Gifts Ltd, Club West Inc, Cobra Seats Ltd, Colacon Investments Ltd, Colin Hine Automobiles Ltd, College Copy Shop Limited, Commercial Truck Parts Ltd, Commercial Truck Sales Ltd, Commercial Vending (Sarnia) Ltd, Commex Manufacturing Inc, Compucon Construction Corp, Computer Class Corporation, Conlin Engineering and Planning Ltd, Consumer Black Top Paving Limited, Consumers Millwork Co Limited, Contempra Gift Stores Limited, Coopers Draperies & Rugs Limited, Coral Place Ltd.

Cord King of Canada Inc, Cordova Auto Collision Ltd, Countrywide Realty Network Inc, Courtice Construction Limited, Craftline International Limited, Creative Impulse Advertising Ltd, Creative Impulse Graphics Ltd, Creative Impulse Ltd, Creative Impulse Printing Ltd, Creeds Limited, Crema Furniture Ltd, Crown Millwork Ltd, CTEC Transport Systems Ltd, Cuisine Select Inc, Custom Cakes & Catering Inc, Custom Filling & Manufacturing Inc, Custom Holdings Ltd, Custom Truck Bodies Limited, Customcraft Division of Pracomm Refinements Inc;

D J's Blended Seasons Limited, D. Richards & Associates Advertising Limited, D & C Roussy Industries Ltd, D & S Mangan Investments Inc, Dacol Industrial Limited, Dala Distributors Inc, Dale Cor Trucking Inc, Dan & Son Fine Cars Inc, Dansilt Construction Ltd, Daniels (Front Street) Corporation, Daniels Development Corporation, Danrich Developments Inc, Data Ribbon Limited, Datem Ltd, Davchelle Enterprises Ltd, Dave Gibbon General Contracting Ltd, David Aaron Novick and Associates Architects (CDA) Inc, David Gary Clothier Ltd, D & M Heating & Air Conditioning Ltd, D & M Mechanical Ltd, Deakin Pools Limited, Dealing Dan's Stereo & TV Ltd, Deborah Rose Infant Toddler Day Care Inc, Deer Run Outfitters Co Limited, Del Mar Clothes Limited, Delmon Capital Group Limited, Delta Pharmaceuticals Canada Limited, Delta '70 Manufacturing Limited, Denelle Holdings Ltd, Derbyshire Healey Refrigeration Limited, Derick Transport Inc, Dessil Management Inc, Design Concepts by Miriam Muller Inc, Design Dynamics (1988) Ltd.

Dessert Craft Products Corp, Devcar Graphics Inc, Diana Temple Fashions Inc, Die Tram Tool Limited, Display & Exhibit Canada Ltd, Diversified Impressions, Diversified Outreach Inc, Diversified Store Fixtures Inc, Do Mi Ti Investments Limited, Doctor Music Limited, Docu Serve Associates Ltd, Dohani Cabinet Creations Inc, Dominion Fittings Mfg Ltd, Dominion Paving Limited, Don Carlos Men's Wear Limited, Don Carriere Equipment Ltd, Donald V. Gross Enterprises Limited, Doug Ross Cartage Limited, Dovehaven Custom Wood Working Limited, Drexel Burnham Lambert Canada Inc.

Dual Video Inc, Dundas Engineering Services Ltd, Dunedin Carpet Corporation, Dunlop Construction Products Inc, Dunmore Furniture Company Limited, Dupont Paper Box Limited, Durham Doors Ltd, Dustmar Holding Ltd, Dynatronix Limited, Eagle Fire Suppression Systems Limited, East Way Auto Collision Centre Ltd, Eastern Wire Products Ltd, Eastway Motors (Hamilton) Limited, Easy Fashions Ltd, Economy Store Fixtures Limited, Edlor Crafts Inc, Eglinton Village Limited, Elan Corporation and Nova Metal Products Inc, Elements of Style 111 Ltd, Elks Inc, Enerfit Insulated Wall Structures Inc, Erik Contracting Inc, Erjo Central Athletic Ltd, ESC (Myles) Inc, Escalight Yogourt Ltd, Esprit Translation Ltd, Essential Business Products, Essential Paper Limited, Euro Ceramics Ltd, Eurodesign Clothing Company Ltd, Eversonic Inc, Everspec Surfaces Limited, Exceltronix Computing Inc, Execupart Limited, Exotic Laminates Incorporated, Exus Holdings Ltd;

F & C Construction & Renovations Limited, F/K Heating & Cooling Inc, Fabricated Structural Components Inc, Fair Way Discount Centre Ltd, Farlawn Knit Manufacturing (1982) Inc, Family Group Financial (1988) Inc, Fanning Family Enterprises Inc, Fashion Designs by Ricardo Ltd, Fashion Optics Inc, Fashion Wear (1986) Inc, Fast Fix Commercial Equipment Repair Inc, Fern's Plumbing & Heating (BJW) Inc, Finch Centre Draperies Ltd, First Toronto Mining Corporation, Fitnessland Inc, Flamingo Road Cabaret Inc;

Forest City International Trucks Ltd, Forms Management Services Ltd, Fortex Investments Inc, Fortune Star Chinese Restaurant Ltd, Foulds Bros Co Limited, Fourkinder Investments Ltd, Framar Caterers Ltd, Frameguild Custom Framing Inc, Frameland Ltd, Francine Footwear Limited, Francoz Metal Corporation Ltd, Frank Furlano Auto Repair Ltd, Frank Stevens Transmissions Ltd, Freeport Roofing and Contracting Ltd, Freightliner Truck Centre (Toronto) Limited, Furama Chinese Restaurant Ltd;

1750

G. Allan Stewart Enterprises Limited, G. Ropat Construction Windsor Ltd, G & L Machine & Welding Shop, G. L. Construction Ltd, Gaetan Jodoir Construction Inc, Gara Printing Inc, Garo Limited, Gary Scobie International Trucking Corporation, Gasco Manufacturing Ltd, Gateway Express Limited, Gee & Gee Advertising Inc, General Trade Bindery Ltd, Genex Programmable Advertising Inc, George's Interiors Limited, Gestion Richard Fortier Ltd, GFC Power Ltd;

Gil's Fine Foods (1986) Limited, Gils Limited, Gilles Cable Contractor (1988) Limited, Ginger's Bath and Closet Accessories Limited, Gingras Drywall Ltd, Globe Air Heating & Air Conditioning Ltd, Goldberg and Weisdorf Limited, Goldschmid Electric Ltd, Goodness Gracious Restaurant Ltd, Governor's Mechanical Inc, Gow's Restaurant (1983) Ltd, Graham Long Ltd, Grand Italian Supermarket Ltd, Grant Brown Cadillac Pontiac Buick Ltd, Graphline Graphics Inc, Great Lakes Fleet Service, Great Lakes Marine Contracting Limited, Great North Conservation Products Inc, Green Gables (Ontario) Limited, Green Seal Office Supplies Limited, Guardian Collision Center Ltd, Gurney Farm Services Limited, Guy Grasseur Limited, Gypsum Tech Systems Inc;

Half Time Sports Inc, Hamilton Modular Buildings Inc, Hamilton Mountain Autohaus Inc, Harbour Fashions Limited, Harry Smith's Insurance Brokers Inc, Hart Marine Ltd, Hayes Mechanical Systems Ltd, Health First Doctor's Office Partnership I, Heatsaver Systems Inc, Hellenic Sports Depot Ltd, Herry's Rent A Car Inc, Heritage Whitby Realty Limited, Herman Louter Inc, Hevac Fireplace Furnace Mfg Ltd, Hickory Lane Construction Ltd, High Line Data Systems Inc, Highland Creek Catering Limited, Highstyle Investments Ltd, Hillwell Manufacturing Inc, Hillwell Systems Inc, Hip Hip Hooray Inc, Hitech Erectors Incorporated, Homelife/Dynasty Realty Inc, Homelife/Supreme Realty Inc, Homelife/Tri Corp Realty Ltd, Horsefeathers Inc, House of Appel Fur (1985) Inc, Howarth & Smith Limited, Hubacco Investments Inc, Humber Automotive (1989) Ltd, Huntington's House of Fashion Inc, Hypermedia Productions Inc;

I Magine Gems Inc, Iben Investments Limited, Ilma Verde Fashions Ltd, Image Plus Graphics Inc, Impact Manufacturing Limited, Impress Plastics Ltd, Independent Carriers Group Inc, Independent Wholesale Caterers Ltd, Info Guard Limited, Innovative Chair Designs Inc, Innovative Design Technologies Inc, Insight Planners Inc, Insta Vend Inc, Installex Telecommunications Services Inc, Interfax Financial Services Limited, Interior Techniques Inc, Interlake Steel Products Inc, Interline Masonry Ltd, International Golf Contractors Inc, International Robotic Manufacturing Limited, International Sports Medicine Centre Inc, Interprovincial Fire Protection Inc, ISS Equipment Company Limited, Ital Design Marble and Granite Inc;

J. Adams Overhead Garage Doors Ltd, J. Malkin Drugs Limited, J & L Romano Limited, J & S Golf Care Services Limited, J. A. Hamilton Management & Investment Ltd, J. Atlas Roofing Ltd, J. B. Corner Inc, J. B. F. Restaurant Incorporated, J. Jeffrey Antiques & Gifts Ltd, J. M. Ore Dressing Equipment Company Limited, J. N. Casting & Jewellery Ltd, Jack Roberts Marketing Services Limited, Jacobsen Books & News Inc, Jacoles Sylvain Roofing & Plastering Ltd, JDA Equipment Repairs Ltd, Jemway Forwarding Inc, Jetstream Freightways Limited, Jev Contracting Limited, Jev II Limited, JHL Steel Products Ltd, JHL Set Consulting Services Inc, Jocelyne Assad Enterprises Inc, Joclair Ltd, John Blair Marine Specialities Inc, John Wheelwright Limited, Jonas & Erickson Software Technology Inc, Jonathan Miller Fashion Marketing Inc, Jonhanson Sports Ltd, Jordan Electric Limited, Joro (K. L.) Limited "The Style Shop", JRK Expositions Inc, Julia's Kitchen & Bath Design Inc, Junior Swank (Scarborough) Ltd, Juniper Heritage Services Ltd, Jupiter Chair Mfg Ltd, Jutro Construction Limited, Juvenile Junction Ltd;

K 10 Enterprises Limited, Kamport Enterprises Inc, Kamron Holdings Inc, Kanata Mirror & Glass Ltd, Kappa Signa Inc, Kapto Restaurants Limited, Kargun Inc, Karl's TV of Orillia Limited, Kathleen Lynch Enterprises Inc, Keeper Souvenirs Ltd, Ken Mason Marine Services Ltd, Ken Wilson Aircraft Sales Ltd, Kettle Creek Canvas Co Ltd, Key Pointe Retail Group Limited Partnership, Keyboard Music Centre Inc (The), Kiddie Kastle Inc, Kiddies Kastle Inc, Kiddy Warehouse Concept Inc, King Dom Health Spa Corporation, Kirey & Wilson Manufacturing Inc, Kirwan's Sports World Ltd, Kitchen Artisans Ltd, Kitchen World Kitchens Inc, Kuckartz Carpentry Ltd;

L C Charco Inc, L'Abee Construction (Ontario) Ltd, L'Amour Lingerie Corporation, La Belle Boutique Inc, La Cheminee Dining Lounge Inc, La Finesse Furniture Company Limited, La Mode De Vija Inc, Lacasse Enterprises Inc, Lackie's Marina Limited, Lackies of Lake Simcoe Inc, Lackies on the Bay Inc, Lajax Fashions Limited, Lakeshore Fruit Toronto Limited, Landscape Liaison Ltd, Lang Roofing Inc, Lanorth Corporation, Las Italian Office Furnishings Inc, Laser Direct Inc, LaWest Fashions Ltd, Lawrason's Chemicals Ltd, Lees Restaurant Equipment Company Ltd, Lehmann Tool & Mould Incorporated, Leib Service Printings Limited, Les Goudrons Jean Louis Parent (1985) Ltee, Liftech Equipment Co Ltd, Liftech Services Limited, Lightside Foods Inc, Lignoplex Canada Inc, Lillian Letourneau's Contemporary Kitchens Inc, Linea Giusta Fashions Ltd, Lionel Villeneuve Heating Supplies Limited, Litho Blankets Ltd, Little Wise Owl Educational Toys & Books Ltd, Livewire Electrical Wholesale Stores Inc, Logics Holdings Inc, London Acoustics Limited, London Area Products Ltd, London Kitchen Gallery Inc, Lora Lane Group Inc, Lord & Burnham Inc, Los Primo Ltd, Ludwig & Son Roofing Ltd, Lurose Restaurants Inc, M & Al Roofing Ltd, M J Automotive Inc, MJK Industries Inc, Macro Engineering Co Ltd --

Mr Norman W. Sterling (Carleton): On a point of order, Mr Speaker: I believe there's unanimous consent that you dispense with the reading of the rest of this bill.

Interjections: No.

Mr Sterling: No? Okay, fine.

The Acting Speaker: Do we have unanimous consent to dispense?

Interjections: No.

The Acting Speaker: No, we do not have.

-- M & Al Roofing Ltd, M J Automotive Inc, MJK Industries Inc, Macro Engineering Co Ltd, Major Video Canada Inc, Maker Electric Limited, Maker Mechanical Services Limited, Malcolm Black Equipment Limited, Manselle Ladies' Wear Ltd, Man Sai Enterprises Inc, Mandem Inc, Manes Brothers Construction Ltd, Manhire Industrial Services Ltd, Manotick Tire Serives (Kingston) Ltd, Manufacturers Apparel Outlet Inc, Maple Precast Limited, Marathon Equipment Ltd, Marketcom Inc, Markville Transmission Clinic Ltd, Marshall Refrigeration Co Limited, Massao's Sports & Cycle Ltd, Masuko International Corp, Mater's Management Ltd, Matrik Marble & Tile Ltd, Matthews Nova Trucking Limited, Maxiprest Canada Inc, Maxwell Diversified Industries Ltd, McKay Metallurgical Limited, McLean Converting Company Limited, McLean Converting Hospital Division Ltd, McLean Hannah Studios Ltd, McLeod Bishop Systems Ltd, Media Decisions Inc, Media Specialists Limited, Medic Demand Partnership;

1800

Mediquip Healthcare Inc, Mediterranean Interiors Furniture Warehouse & Showroom Ltd, Medler McKay Holdings Ltd, Mega Plumbing (1938) Limited, Mender Developments Limited, Mercier Agri Centre Inc, Merit Automotive Products Limited, Metcalfe Slender Vision Unisex Salon Ltd, Metrospeed International Courier Corporation, Michael Askin and Company Inc, Michael Henry Clothiers Ltd, Mighty Container Ltd, Miles MacDonald & Sons Plumbing & Heating, Miller Financial Corp, Millstone Trucking Ltd, Milton Bridge Limited, Milton Spring and Suspension Inc, Ming Hong Herbal Centre Ltd, Mintz Investments Limited, Mipa Group Limited (The), Miracom Communications Inc, Mississauga Builders Hardware Midway Ltd, Mississauga Builders' Hardware Limited;

Mississauga Jeep Eagle (1990) Ltd, Mister Real Estate Inc, Montego Forest Products Limited, Monty's Electric Supply Co Ltd, Morewood Industries Limited, Moureaux Hauspy Forrest Design Inc, Mr Chips & His Fish Ltd, Mulvey & Canani Information Services, Mulvey Engineering Limited, Munro Meats & Produce Limited;

National Bindery Systems Ltd, Natmich Investments Limited, Near North Bowling Centre Inc, Nelan Investments Limited, Nethercott Lee Volkswagen Ltd, Network Copy Systems Inc, Nevasco Industries Inc, Newbank Group Ltd, Newgen Service Systems Inc, Newman Steel Ltd, Niagara Knitting Inc, Nielsen Computers Inc, Niemi Textile Inc, Nora Leathers Ltd, Norman Morrison Advertising Ltd, Normandeau Carpet, Wallpaper & Ceramic Tile Centre Ltd, NRS Advantage Inc, NRS Esprit Realty Inc, NRS Progressive Realty Inc, NRS Realty Relocations Inc, NRS Rosehood Real Estate Ltd;

Oakstar Transportation Systems and Oakstar Enterprises, Oakville Optical Limited, OEP (Toronto) Inc, Ogilvie Roadhouse Limited, Old Mill Food Centre Inc, Omega Apparel (1988) Inc, Omni Restaurants Inc, Omni Stone Corporation, Omnitron (Cornwall) Inc, One Stop Rent All Ltd, Optex Corporation, Orangeroof Limited, Orient Express (Windsor) Inc, Ottawa Direct Marketing Publications Inc, Ottawa Lawn Pro Ltd, Ottawa Renaissance Development Corporation, Our Neighbourhood Publishing Co Inc, Overtime Sports Inc, Owen Sound Business Machines Inc, Oxford Stereo & TV Ltd;

P & B Daniels Interiors Inc, P. Chartrand & Sons Limited, PD Dynasty Jewels Ltd, P. Taylor Landscape Development Company Ltd, Pacer Panel Systems Inc, Pack All International Inc, Paddintong's Bed and Bath Inc, Palm Pools Ltd, Pamar Marbleceramic Ltd, Pantrem Jeanswear International Inc, Pape Black Kent Clothes Limited, Paradise Shoes Inc, Paragon Designs Limited, Paris Brick Company Limited, Paris & Roma Men's Fashions Limited, Parkinson Publishing Inc, Patrie Builders and Renovators Limited, Patron Contracting Limited, Paul Bernard Company Limited, Penson Farm Equipment Ltd, Penta Shoes;

Pentagon Merchandising Industries Ltd, Peppers Food Fair Limited, Perkins Motors Limited, Perry Originals Incorporated, Pete's Garden and Fruitland Limited, Peter Ferguson Limited, Peter Landsman & Associates Inc, Peter's Place Inc, PG Warehousing Inc, Pickering Rotisserie Company Limited, Pink Elephant Holdings Limited, Pink Pearl (North York) Ltd, Pint Sizes Ltd, Piontek Inc, Platisoons Investments Inc, Pleasing Dreams Ltd, Polysten International Inc --

Mr Murray J. Elston (Bruce): Dispense.

The Acting Speaker: The honourable member for Bruce. Dispense?

Interjections: No.

The Acting Speaker: No.

-- Por Ita Construction Ltd, Portside Seafood Inc, PPH Precision Plumbing & Heating Inc, Practical Electric (1986) Inc, Precise Communications Inc, Preston & Lieff Glass Limited, Preston Brock Manufacturing Co Ltd, Print City Inc, Prism Yachts Inc, Pro Golf of Canada Inc, Pro Heating & Air Conditioning Ltd, Pro Reflections Inc, Pro Transportation Consultants Inc, Provincial Crane Inc, Prudential Lease Funding Inc, Purdy Plumbing Inc, Purezone Inc;

RCI Limited, RF Shielding Inc, RJ Siberry Ltd, RMS Fabricating Inc, Radio Television Representatives Limited, Rag Tag Panic Wear (1990) Ltd, Rajesky Realty Ltd, Ray Furniture & Interiors Limited, Realty 2001 Developments Limited, Realty 2001 Inc, Regatta Yacht Sales (East) Ltd, Regatta Yacht Sales (West) Ltd, Regatta Yacht Sales Ltd, Regency Foodmarts Inc, Reliable Installations & Dismantle, Remax Achievers Inc, Remax Central Realty Inc, Remax Choice Realty Ltd, Rent A Room Inc, Revel Luminaires Limited, Rex Forming Limited, Rexcraft Rivers Edge Corporation;

Richmond Heights Interiors Limited, Ridgeway Collision Inc, Ritz Mangement Inc, Riverside Dental Inc, Road Music & Promotion Agency Ltd, Robbin Lloyd Switzer Sales Inc, Robert Andrew Monteith Inc, Robert E. Simpson Supply Limited, Roberts & Deacon Saw Company Limited, Robin Edward Charles Clarke Limited, Robinson & Jones Insurance Agency Limited, Roboak Holding Inc, Rolmaster Conveyors Ltd, Ron Ellis Sports Inc, Ron Inglis Homes Limited, Ronart Trading Limited, Rosemes Electric Supply Limited, Rotom of Canada Ltd, Royal City Chrysler Plymouth Limited, Royal City Material Handling Ltd, Royal Woodbine Golf Corporation, Rozar Boutique Ltd, Ruby's Food Services Limited, Ruhl Transportation Technologies Inc, Ross Oliver Jewellery Limited, S. C. Building Products Limited, S. Rotamn Enterprises Limited, S. A. M. Silk Flower Co Ltd, S. L. V. Slender You, Sagar Linens Inc, Sage Baccarat Inc, Samic (Canada) Limited in the period from September 1990 to March 1992.

1818

The House divided on Mr Turnbull's motion, which was agreed to on the following vote:

Ayes -- 75

Arnott, Bisson, Bradley, Charlton, Christopherson, Churley, Conway, Cooke, Cooper, Coppen, Cousens, Cunningham, Curling, Dadamo, Duignan, Elston, Eves, Fawcett, Ferguson, Fletcher, Gigantes, Grandmaître, Grier, Haeck, Hansen, Harnick, Harrington, Harris, Haslam, Henderson, Hope, Huget, Jackson, Johnson, Jordan, Klopp, Kormos, Lankin, Lessard, Mackenzie, Malkowski, Mammoliti, Mancini, Marchese, Marland, Martel, Mathyssen, McClelland, McLean, Miclash, Mills, Morrow, Murdock (Sudbury), O'Connor, O'Neil (Quinte), Perruzza, Philip (Etobicoke-Rexdale), Poole, Ramsay, Rizzo, Runciman, Sorbara, Sterling, Stockwell, Sullivan, Sutherland, Turnbull, Ward (Brantford), Wark-Martyn, Waters, Wessenger, White, Wilson (Simcoe West), Wiseman, Wood.

Nays -- 0

Clerk Assistant and Clerk of Journals (Mr Alex D. McFedries): This is a bill entitled An Act respecting the establishment of an inquiry into the role of provincial taxation --

The Acting Speaker: Dispense?

Hon Evelyn Gigantes (Minister of Housing): No.

Clerk Assistant and Clerk of Journals: -- regulatory and labour policies in the bankruptcies and insolvencies of selected Ontario companies for the period from the 6th day of September, 1990 until the end of March, 1992 including:

A & B Office Equipment Leasing Co Ltd --

The Acting Speaker: Dispense? Dispense.

Would the honourable member for York Mills have a few introductory messages?

Interjections.

The Acting Speaker: The honourable member for York Mills has the floor.

Mr Turnbull: The importance of this bill is to examine the circumstance as to why all of these companies have gone bankrupt since this government has been in power. They have a lot to answer for, and indeed this bill will go a long way to looking into and clarifying that.

The Acting Speaker: It now being well past 6 of the clock, this House stands adjourned until tomorrow at 1:30 of the clock.

The House adjourned at 1822.