The title is born mostly of frustration. I've been on the job market since late November... and let's say I've had enough bites to know that it's more likely because of job market conditions than any lack of qualifications on my part. The fact is a lot of employers simply for whatever reason aren't hiring.
And I think it's about to get worse. On Wednesday the announcement came down that Standard& Poors was downgrading our economic outlook, and Thursday Moody's decided to downgrade Ontario's credit. It likely has something to do with the budget deal struck Monday, and then the budget voted on, Tuesday.
It probably is really no more than a verdict on the provincial budget. Specifically on the fact there is a new tax being applied when conventional wisdom shows us that business tax cuts are a better way to stimulate growth in private business. And who runs private business? Usually people making over $500 thousand... aka those being asked to fork it over by the N.D.P.
It's a wake-up call to Dalton McGuinty that he's got to stick to his guns on the Public Sector wage freeze, and the other cost-cutting measures contained within the budget. This may even shock him into re-thinking some of his response to the Drummond Report, and really going at it to cut spending. At least these are the things I keep trying to tell myself.
I look at these moves as a job hunter and wonder if I'm banging my head against a brick wall trying to find a job here. I wonder who will invest in a province that's got this enormous debt, and where the Premier is so beholden to his opposition he introduces a new tax just to keep power? Who will invest in a province where a government is constantly on the verge of collapse and the Premier let's face it, isn't exactly the most trustworthy as it comes to public money these days? Who will invest in a province where taxes are probably going to keep going up? Nobody, that's who. Not a single investor will, and I can't say that I blame them.
And the worst part of is Dalton McGuinty is probably the best of the bunch. In her deal with the Liberals N.D.P. leader Andrea Horwath showed a penchant for taxing, and spending usually associated with the party. In doing some reading on their website the P.C.'s have some ideas, but they're vague at best;the minute they become policy ideas is the minute they become a serious threat to McGuinty.
So when did that happen? When did a leader who has regularly broken promises, whose government has been in recent years plagued by scandals involving out tax dollars become the best we can do? Probably after the last provincial election when even after nearly a year of campaigning voters still didn't know Tim Hudak that well or trust him.
Dalton McGuinty made the mess. Now's the time to clean it up... if he doesn't then voters should do it for him by electing someone else next time out. At least I hope that's what will happen. If it doesn't I'll move to Saskatchewan.
Showing posts with label Tim Hudak. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tim Hudak. Show all posts
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
The Deal, and the Politics
The deal reached Monday that averted an election doesn't bother me. It forced the people making over $500 thousand to pay an extra 2% on their taxes. It seems a pittance to me to avoid a provincial election worth over $100 million that probably wouldn't have accomplished much anyway. McGuinty is saying right now the tax will only stay until the deficit is paid off. I've heard it said it is nearly impossible to repeal a tax measure once implemented.
What's more interesting here is the politics. Dalton McGuinty made a catchphrase out of "I will not raise taxes a penny more," and now here he is having to break a promise... again. The polls show it's a move the rest of us fully support; but it is still is a broken promise. And it's one that has to anger his party's supporters on Bay Street who will be effected by this, and that will end up costing him votes. When you put it together with the rest of the budget- the semi-voluntary public sector wage freeze, and asking seniors to pay more for their drugs based on the income; this could be end up being a politically expensive budget for him.
The N.D.P. and Andrea Horwath come off as a political winner here. She got what she wanted; the tax hike, and more money for social programs and health care. She comes off as a strong leader in the eyes of her supporters, and maybe wins a few more a votes given that she saved the government from defeat. But it's a pretty hollow victory. It's a dangerous game she plays; agreeing to a deal one day, and abstaining from a vote on the budget the next. It begs the question why make the deal if you don't plan to vote for it? It's almost as if the N.D.P. wants to have its cake and eat it too- it wants to push through its priorities but it's almost like it's reserving the right to vote against it at a later date. It raises some integrity questions about the N.D.P.
Tim Hudak comes off as being the big loser in all of this. I give him points for consistency- he said his party would vote against it, and so they did. He's also isolated himself now, sitting firmly on the outside looking in, as Andrea Horwath takes the lead in a role that should really be his as leader of the opposition. I find lately Hudak's been going for the easy line too much, instead of the good policy idea; it makes it seem as if he hasn't found the balance between providing a government-in-waiting, and a voice for the opposition.
The deal has been struck ensuring the McGuinty government's survival. However the games have just begun.
What's more interesting here is the politics. Dalton McGuinty made a catchphrase out of "I will not raise taxes a penny more," and now here he is having to break a promise... again. The polls show it's a move the rest of us fully support; but it is still is a broken promise. And it's one that has to anger his party's supporters on Bay Street who will be effected by this, and that will end up costing him votes. When you put it together with the rest of the budget- the semi-voluntary public sector wage freeze, and asking seniors to pay more for their drugs based on the income; this could be end up being a politically expensive budget for him.
The N.D.P. and Andrea Horwath come off as a political winner here. She got what she wanted; the tax hike, and more money for social programs and health care. She comes off as a strong leader in the eyes of her supporters, and maybe wins a few more a votes given that she saved the government from defeat. But it's a pretty hollow victory. It's a dangerous game she plays; agreeing to a deal one day, and abstaining from a vote on the budget the next. It begs the question why make the deal if you don't plan to vote for it? It's almost as if the N.D.P. wants to have its cake and eat it too- it wants to push through its priorities but it's almost like it's reserving the right to vote against it at a later date. It raises some integrity questions about the N.D.P.
Tim Hudak comes off as being the big loser in all of this. I give him points for consistency- he said his party would vote against it, and so they did. He's also isolated himself now, sitting firmly on the outside looking in, as Andrea Horwath takes the lead in a role that should really be his as leader of the opposition. I find lately Hudak's been going for the easy line too much, instead of the good policy idea; it makes it seem as if he hasn't found the balance between providing a government-in-waiting, and a voice for the opposition.
The deal has been struck ensuring the McGuinty government's survival. However the games have just begun.
Monday, April 2, 2012
My Stories To Watch: April 2-9 2012
Stories to watch this week....
1. Ontario Budget Drama: What price will the N.D.P. demand of Dalton McGuinty to keep him in power? Andrea Horwath is set to give her demands, or let us know if she intends to follow fellow Opposition Leader Tim Hudak and vote it down. In an interview with Moore in the Morning today, Horwath refused to say if she even been talking to the Liberals over the weekend.
2. The Three Amigos meet: Prime Minister Stephen Harper is meeting in Washington with President Barack Obama, with Mexican President Calderon. Items on the agenda include greater trade ties, and how to tackle the Mexican drug cartels.
3. The Rafferty Trial: Chapter #4 of the Crown's case against Michael Rafferty continues this week. Today the jury takes a tour of the field where Tory Stafford's body was found.
4. Air Canada: The union representing airline's machinists are taking the federal government to court. They're arguing the federal government's anti-strike legislation is unconstitutional because it violates the freedom of association. The pilot's union has started a similar challenge.
In Local Politics...
Note: Tonight's Community Services Standing Committee meeting has been cancelled.
1. Ontario Budget Drama: What price will the N.D.P. demand of Dalton McGuinty to keep him in power? Andrea Horwath is set to give her demands, or let us know if she intends to follow fellow Opposition Leader Tim Hudak and vote it down. In an interview with Moore in the Morning today, Horwath refused to say if she even been talking to the Liberals over the weekend.
2. The Three Amigos meet: Prime Minister Stephen Harper is meeting in Washington with President Barack Obama, with Mexican President Calderon. Items on the agenda include greater trade ties, and how to tackle the Mexican drug cartels.
3. The Rafferty Trial: Chapter #4 of the Crown's case against Michael Rafferty continues this week. Today the jury takes a tour of the field where Tory Stafford's body was found.
4. Air Canada: The union representing airline's machinists are taking the federal government to court. They're arguing the federal government's anti-strike legislation is unconstitutional because it violates the freedom of association. The pilot's union has started a similar challenge.
In Local Politics...
Note: Tonight's Community Services Standing Committee meeting has been cancelled.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Ontario Budget: It's in the NDP's hands now
To cause an election or not cause an election that is the question whether tis nobler to suffer the slings and arrows of outraged unions" (apologies to William Shakespeare for that one). That's essentially what it comes down to for Ontario's political parties after the provincial budget was read by Finance Minister Dwight Duncan.
Tim Hudak and the Progressive Conservatives have already said they will not support it, leaving it up to Andrea Horwath and the N.D.P to keep the McGuinty Government afloat. Andrea Horwath is taking a more measured approach, saying she wants to talk to Ontarians before making a final decision.
I think she's in a pretty sticky situation. There was in the budget a sternly worded ultimatum to the public sector workers from the McGuinty government to please take a pay freeze, or we'll legislate it. Both O.P.S.E.U (Ontario Public Sector Employees Union), and all teaching unions are in a contract year, and are at various stages of negotiating with their employer aka. the government. There has to be pressure from them to vote down the budget because of this, and that will be hard to ignore.
On the other hand as Andrea Horwath tours the province speaking to Ontarians she'll likely find the rest of us have little appetite for an election at this point. The economy is in a tough state of affairs, putting off fixing it for another 5 weeks for pretty much the same outcome is insanity itself really. Besides there is the money involved to consider as well: $100 million to be exact. And when offered a choice between a pay freeze and no job, most would probably take the pay freeze.
She'll probably find lots of anger over the Ornge scandal as well. Lately the provincial government has been using the line the money lost in the Ornge Ambulance debacle is only 3/4 of a percentage of the overall health care portion of the budget. In the context of a provincial budget it isn't much; but when you mention the disappearance of millions of dollars, and equipment sitting unused to regular Ontarians; some of whom can barely make ends meet then it's a lot of money, and a lot of waste.
Personally, I'd like to see this settled without another election. It's been less than six months since the last one, and I don't think it'll change much in terms of the standings. The timing aspect has to be part of the decision for the Lieutenant Governor as well. But he has another option; he could ask Andrea Horwath or Tim Hudak to meet the Legislature and try and form a government.
The Liberals have stated they would fight an election on their budget. I think that like the Governor General, the Lieutenant Governor has to obey a government so long as it is in office; so if a non-confidence vote ends up happening then expect a return to the polls. In the meantime the fate of the Ontario Budget is in the hands of the N.D.P. and Andrea Horwath.
Tim Hudak and the Progressive Conservatives have already said they will not support it, leaving it up to Andrea Horwath and the N.D.P to keep the McGuinty Government afloat. Andrea Horwath is taking a more measured approach, saying she wants to talk to Ontarians before making a final decision.
I think she's in a pretty sticky situation. There was in the budget a sternly worded ultimatum to the public sector workers from the McGuinty government to please take a pay freeze, or we'll legislate it. Both O.P.S.E.U (Ontario Public Sector Employees Union), and all teaching unions are in a contract year, and are at various stages of negotiating with their employer aka. the government. There has to be pressure from them to vote down the budget because of this, and that will be hard to ignore.
On the other hand as Andrea Horwath tours the province speaking to Ontarians she'll likely find the rest of us have little appetite for an election at this point. The economy is in a tough state of affairs, putting off fixing it for another 5 weeks for pretty much the same outcome is insanity itself really. Besides there is the money involved to consider as well: $100 million to be exact. And when offered a choice between a pay freeze and no job, most would probably take the pay freeze.
She'll probably find lots of anger over the Ornge scandal as well. Lately the provincial government has been using the line the money lost in the Ornge Ambulance debacle is only 3/4 of a percentage of the overall health care portion of the budget. In the context of a provincial budget it isn't much; but when you mention the disappearance of millions of dollars, and equipment sitting unused to regular Ontarians; some of whom can barely make ends meet then it's a lot of money, and a lot of waste.
Personally, I'd like to see this settled without another election. It's been less than six months since the last one, and I don't think it'll change much in terms of the standings. The timing aspect has to be part of the decision for the Lieutenant Governor as well. But he has another option; he could ask Andrea Horwath or Tim Hudak to meet the Legislature and try and form a government.
The Liberals have stated they would fight an election on their budget. I think that like the Governor General, the Lieutenant Governor has to obey a government so long as it is in office; so if a non-confidence vote ends up happening then expect a return to the polls. In the meantime the fate of the Ontario Budget is in the hands of the N.D.P. and Andrea Horwath.
Friday, February 17, 2012
A Cynic's View Of The Drummond Report
I was filled with a general sense of hopelessness as the Drummond Report was presented on Wednesday afternoon. Implementing much of what the trusted economist recommended will take political will, and there isn't any at Queen's Park.
A public Sector wage freeze won't happen. The ship sailed on that when McGuinty promised it before, and then selectively gave a wage hike anyway. Besides one of the larger public sector Unions O.P.S.E.U (Ontario Public Service Employees Union) is soon going to be in a legal strike position, and you can probably guess what they'll be wanting...
McGuinty wants to be known as an education Premier so the likelihood of him delaying the implementation of or cancelling the full-day Kindergarten program is fairly slim. The same can be said of the cancellation of the tuition grants for post-secondary education. He's known as being friendly towards teachers too, so denying any employer rate increases to the Teacher's Pension Plan is probably out of the question as well.
McGuinty also wants to be known for his Green Energy policies. Cancelling the Green Energy Benefit probably isn't going to happen because giving people money is popular and might get votes. It also goes against his image as an environmentally friendly premier.
Nobody has the guts to talk about making seniors pay more for drugs. They're always seen as tone of the more vulnerable groups in society, which, for the most part makes sense. Besides that, Seniors vote; any attempt to make them pay more for something will be punished at the ballot box.
Gamboling makes money for the government. It probably makes enough money to make it a real revenue generator for the McGuinty Liberals, meaning guess what? Closing a casino in Niagara Falls isn't going to happen. Closing its headquarters maybe... but even that won't make much of a difference because employees will likely make their way into other jobs within the provincial government.
Could Tim Hudak do better if he were elected Premier last October? I honestly don't know. If he did win, he'd certainly be in a better position to implement the Drummond Report recommendations, because all policies affected are Liberal. It would have been natural for Hudak to stake out some different political territory and use the report as a means to do it.
McGuinty is in a no-win situation- he carries on as is and we're in a worse state in five years. He does something and he could alienate key demographics he needs to win an election. He probably ordered the Drummond Report in the first place to make it look like he was doing something. He never thought he would actually win last October. Now he's stuck trying to implement recommendations that call for him to go against many of his cornerstone policies and become unpopular. And we all know how much this Premier hates to be unpopular.
A public Sector wage freeze won't happen. The ship sailed on that when McGuinty promised it before, and then selectively gave a wage hike anyway. Besides one of the larger public sector Unions O.P.S.E.U (Ontario Public Service Employees Union) is soon going to be in a legal strike position, and you can probably guess what they'll be wanting...
McGuinty wants to be known as an education Premier so the likelihood of him delaying the implementation of or cancelling the full-day Kindergarten program is fairly slim. The same can be said of the cancellation of the tuition grants for post-secondary education. He's known as being friendly towards teachers too, so denying any employer rate increases to the Teacher's Pension Plan is probably out of the question as well.
McGuinty also wants to be known for his Green Energy policies. Cancelling the Green Energy Benefit probably isn't going to happen because giving people money is popular and might get votes. It also goes against his image as an environmentally friendly premier.
Nobody has the guts to talk about making seniors pay more for drugs. They're always seen as tone of the more vulnerable groups in society, which, for the most part makes sense. Besides that, Seniors vote; any attempt to make them pay more for something will be punished at the ballot box.
Gamboling makes money for the government. It probably makes enough money to make it a real revenue generator for the McGuinty Liberals, meaning guess what? Closing a casino in Niagara Falls isn't going to happen. Closing its headquarters maybe... but even that won't make much of a difference because employees will likely make their way into other jobs within the provincial government.
Could Tim Hudak do better if he were elected Premier last October? I honestly don't know. If he did win, he'd certainly be in a better position to implement the Drummond Report recommendations, because all policies affected are Liberal. It would have been natural for Hudak to stake out some different political territory and use the report as a means to do it.
McGuinty is in a no-win situation- he carries on as is and we're in a worse state in five years. He does something and he could alienate key demographics he needs to win an election. He probably ordered the Drummond Report in the first place to make it look like he was doing something. He never thought he would actually win last October. Now he's stuck trying to implement recommendations that call for him to go against many of his cornerstone policies and become unpopular. And we all know how much this Premier hates to be unpopular.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Frank Klees as Speaker: Genius or Jackass move?
Frank Klees has been many things in his public life- a cabinet minister under Mike Harris, an opposition critic under Tim Hudak, and a leadership hopeful finishing second twice. And now it looks like he could be the Speaker of the Provincial Legislature; a position vital to the government's survival in the context of a minority government.
On the surface Klees' candidacy could be viewed as a betrayal to his party. It cripples the opposition by taking the seat away, and helps the Liberals quest to govern as a majority. The Speaker's role is to be neutral and keep order in the house- usually voting with the government in matters of confidence. And here's where the genius part comes in. While it is accepted convention to vote with the government, there is nothing that says Klees should he win the role must do so. He could potentially use the role to put the Liberals' feet to the fire on some of their promises. He could use the position to force compromises, and potentially accomplish something for his party.
Or it could be a totally jackass move, that will blow up in his face. The fact is his candidacy is viewed by some in his party as a betrayal. It makes Tim Hudak look a bit of a fool- a few days after saying nobody in his party has any interest in the position, Klees announces he does have interest. It's a huge gamble for him; the Speaker becomes a powerful job in a minority Parliament-the arguable perception is he gave up the collective good- a combined opposition force with a majority of the power for his own self-interest. This does nothing to make any friends in any party. If he loses, he goes back to his own party, and although he'll likely be welcomed back into the fold I'd imagine there'll be no love lost.
I wonder if Mr Klees has thought this one out. Should he win the position, he'll have to strike a delicate balance between party loyalty, and plunging the province into yet another election. Taking his seat out of the equation we'd be sitting with a statistical dead heat; it makes me wonder if this new/old provincial government would get anything done at all. We may be in for a very short mandate- or a very long one stuck in the muddy world of party politics.
This either is a genius move should he win; The P.C.'s could learn to live with it using him to their advantage in that role. Or it's a totally jackass move that portrays him in an unflattering light as the typical politician who places self-interest above all else including party loyalty. At this point it could go either way.
On the surface Klees' candidacy could be viewed as a betrayal to his party. It cripples the opposition by taking the seat away, and helps the Liberals quest to govern as a majority. The Speaker's role is to be neutral and keep order in the house- usually voting with the government in matters of confidence. And here's where the genius part comes in. While it is accepted convention to vote with the government, there is nothing that says Klees should he win the role must do so. He could potentially use the role to put the Liberals' feet to the fire on some of their promises. He could use the position to force compromises, and potentially accomplish something for his party.
Or it could be a totally jackass move, that will blow up in his face. The fact is his candidacy is viewed by some in his party as a betrayal. It makes Tim Hudak look a bit of a fool- a few days after saying nobody in his party has any interest in the position, Klees announces he does have interest. It's a huge gamble for him; the Speaker becomes a powerful job in a minority Parliament-the arguable perception is he gave up the collective good- a combined opposition force with a majority of the power for his own self-interest. This does nothing to make any friends in any party. If he loses, he goes back to his own party, and although he'll likely be welcomed back into the fold I'd imagine there'll be no love lost.
I wonder if Mr Klees has thought this one out. Should he win the position, he'll have to strike a delicate balance between party loyalty, and plunging the province into yet another election. Taking his seat out of the equation we'd be sitting with a statistical dead heat; it makes me wonder if this new/old provincial government would get anything done at all. We may be in for a very short mandate- or a very long one stuck in the muddy world of party politics.
This either is a genius move should he win; The P.C.'s could learn to live with it using him to their advantage in that role. Or it's a totally jackass move that portrays him in an unflattering light as the typical politician who places self-interest above all else including party loyalty. At this point it could go either way.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
A Very Canadian Result
If anyone lost it was oddly enough Dalton McGuinty. He lost 18 seats to his opposition; 11 to the P.C.'s, and 7 to the N.D.P. He ended up one torturous seat short of a majority government. What makes it a Canadian result is the fact Andrea Horwath- the third place party ended up the most powerful, squarely in the position of being the balance of power.
This means the Liberals don't make a move now without either the P.C.'s or the N.D.P. on side with them. I hope everyone sees the wisdom in this. The fact is McGuinty needed a slap on the wrist- and the electorate gave it to him. After having near total power for 8 years the knowledge you have to work with your opponents might be more humbling than a loss. With the lower voter turnout it could be said we voted en masse with our feet.
The results are by no means a ringing endorsement for McGuinty. If anything they're a passive aggressive way of saying we want a change, but the choices we have before us aren't that great. So we'll stick with the guy we had before. It's as if we've put him on notice- we're wising up to your tricks, and your lies. We're putting him in a two-year penalty box, if he minds his manners we may let him back on the ice.
..
The opposition as well has a tough road ahead of them. How they oppose will say a lot for the government's stability. They have to act as a government-in-waiting, and offer alternatives, instead of just going against the McGuinty government for the sake of opposing them. Hudak, and Horwath each have to act as future Premier.
The new government could mean a lot for Milton. Right before the writ dropped, it was announced the Liberals would fund the expansion for Milton Hospital. A minority government could mean the Liberals actually keep that promise. The man tasked with making sure that happens is Ted Chudleigh- returned by the voters in Halton for another term. It could also make Milton Education Village a reality a lot sooner than anyone can hope for.
I don't know how long this will last- but the average life of a minority parliament is 18 months. It's not starting off well- N.D.P. leader Horwath has requested a meeting with McGuinty and Hudak- McGuinty has said no. If McGuinty acts the tiniest bit humble there's nothing to say this can't last four years. However long it lasts, it should be entertaining.
This means the Liberals don't make a move now without either the P.C.'s or the N.D.P. on side with them. I hope everyone sees the wisdom in this. The fact is McGuinty needed a slap on the wrist- and the electorate gave it to him. After having near total power for 8 years the knowledge you have to work with your opponents might be more humbling than a loss. With the lower voter turnout it could be said we voted en masse with our feet.
The results are by no means a ringing endorsement for McGuinty. If anything they're a passive aggressive way of saying we want a change, but the choices we have before us aren't that great. So we'll stick with the guy we had before. It's as if we've put him on notice- we're wising up to your tricks, and your lies. We're putting him in a two-year penalty box, if he minds his manners we may let him back on the ice.
..
The opposition as well has a tough road ahead of them. How they oppose will say a lot for the government's stability. They have to act as a government-in-waiting, and offer alternatives, instead of just going against the McGuinty government for the sake of opposing them. Hudak, and Horwath each have to act as future Premier.
The new government could mean a lot for Milton. Right before the writ dropped, it was announced the Liberals would fund the expansion for Milton Hospital. A minority government could mean the Liberals actually keep that promise. The man tasked with making sure that happens is Ted Chudleigh- returned by the voters in Halton for another term. It could also make Milton Education Village a reality a lot sooner than anyone can hope for.
I don't know how long this will last- but the average life of a minority parliament is 18 months. It's not starting off well- N.D.P. leader Horwath has requested a meeting with McGuinty and Hudak- McGuinty has said no. If McGuinty acts the tiniest bit humble there's nothing to say this can't last four years. However long it lasts, it should be entertaining.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
How Will It end?
I'm not going to make a prediction- instead I'm going to make a best guess. We will wake up Friday morning to a Progressive Conservative (P.C.) minority government. I started the campaign with this opinion, and nothing has happened to change it much.
The P.C.'s and Liberal platforms are fairly equal. On the Liberal side, if you scratch below the surface- and take a good look at what the ideas are, you'll find them wanting. on the P.C. side there is some more substance. Both are vague in different areas; the Liberals on how they plan to pay for new hospitals, and the P.C.'s on how their platform would benefit cities.
The two parties are matched with mistakes. McGuinty made one with an ill-timed jobs platform and Hudak in the way he responded to it. McGuinty made another one, when he cancelled the power plant in Mississauga; something that is clearly politically motivated. Hudak made one when he released the sex-ed pamphlet with homophobic content. Everyone hates the HST, and nobody will do anything to if not get rid of it outright or at the very least trim the provincial portion. Nobody has taken McGuinty on about Caledonia.
In the end, a government of any stripe has to stand on its record. As unfair as it may seem for McGuinty this means the full eight years. And for all his successes in health care and education; his attempts to get Ontario to buy into Green energy, it's the scandals and broken promises people will remember. In two previous elections he said he wouldn't raise taxes- we now have the health premium and the HST- which even though it could be good for business; sucks for the consumer. Nobody likes paying more.
Hudak isn't perfect. He's hasn't run the best election campaign. He's spent a more time telling us what the NDP, and Liberals won't do for us and not enough telling what a P.C. government would do for us. Even after one year of campaigning, we really don't know him that well; and that's why Ontario voters will only give him a minority.
Andrea Horwath will end up the kingmaker, and I suspect do very well with that role. Her party has run a campaign based on clearly expressed ideas. They've stuck with the positive message of voting for hope, and not fear; and that will ring true with some voters. Bob Rae casts a long shadow over his former party; and there will be those who will remember what it was like when Ontario last had an N.D.P. Premier. That could be enough to keep her from the Premier's chair.
Eight years is a long time for a government to last in power. It's time for change; Hudak is the best placed to deliver that change. Let's give Hudak a chance.
The P.C.'s and Liberal platforms are fairly equal. On the Liberal side, if you scratch below the surface- and take a good look at what the ideas are, you'll find them wanting. on the P.C. side there is some more substance. Both are vague in different areas; the Liberals on how they plan to pay for new hospitals, and the P.C.'s on how their platform would benefit cities.
The two parties are matched with mistakes. McGuinty made one with an ill-timed jobs platform and Hudak in the way he responded to it. McGuinty made another one, when he cancelled the power plant in Mississauga; something that is clearly politically motivated. Hudak made one when he released the sex-ed pamphlet with homophobic content. Everyone hates the HST, and nobody will do anything to if not get rid of it outright or at the very least trim the provincial portion. Nobody has taken McGuinty on about Caledonia.
In the end, a government of any stripe has to stand on its record. As unfair as it may seem for McGuinty this means the full eight years. And for all his successes in health care and education; his attempts to get Ontario to buy into Green energy, it's the scandals and broken promises people will remember. In two previous elections he said he wouldn't raise taxes- we now have the health premium and the HST- which even though it could be good for business; sucks for the consumer. Nobody likes paying more.
Hudak isn't perfect. He's hasn't run the best election campaign. He's spent a more time telling us what the NDP, and Liberals won't do for us and not enough telling what a P.C. government would do for us. Even after one year of campaigning, we really don't know him that well; and that's why Ontario voters will only give him a minority.
Andrea Horwath will end up the kingmaker, and I suspect do very well with that role. Her party has run a campaign based on clearly expressed ideas. They've stuck with the positive message of voting for hope, and not fear; and that will ring true with some voters. Bob Rae casts a long shadow over his former party; and there will be those who will remember what it was like when Ontario last had an N.D.P. Premier. That could be enough to keep her from the Premier's chair.
Eight years is a long time for a government to last in power. It's time for change; Hudak is the best placed to deliver that change. Let's give Hudak a chance.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Embrace the Conservative Hat Trick
Premier Dalton McGuinty is bringing up the idea of a Conservative Hat Trick. That's a Conservative majority in Ottawa under Harper, a P.C. government at Queen's Park, and a P.C. in the Mayor's seat in Toronto. I don't really find that too scary.
Harper for his part has been a steady hand on the tiller for the economy. We started off not knowing what he was like on a personal level and gave him a minority government; and then slow but steady increased the minority. The N.D.P. is strong enough to stand up to his majority; they've already done it when they filibustered the postal-workers back to work legislation. Even though it's a transitional period as they prepare to choose a new leader I think they'll still find ways to make their message heard.
Toronto Voters chose Rob Ford last October; and they need him. David Miller says he left a $350 million surplus, but so far there are no signs of it. Surplus or not, the city is still in a pretty big hole and something has to give. The cuts will be painful, but if the result is a more prosperous Ontario capital, then isn't it worth it? Toronto voters also chose more federal Conservatives to represent them in Ottawa showing that fear of Conservatives in Toronto might be on the decline.
I don't find anything scary about a possible "Premier Hudak." Polls show a minority with Andrea Horwath in a king-maker role. I think she'd be a strong enough influence at Queen's Park. Polls show a minority mostly because even after months of campaigning we still don't know Tim Hudak that well. Why couldn't we treat Hudak, the same way we treated Harper? Give him a minority for a while, and see what he can do
The whole idea of a "Conservative hat trick" seems more a reaction of a Premier desperate to hold on. His platform is in tatters, and all he has left is a record in which the scandals outweigh the successes. Fear is basically the last tactic open to him. Well I say, embrace the fear- let's give Hudak a try. If we find electing him wasn't the best idea we ever had we can always switch it up in a year or so.
Harper for his part has been a steady hand on the tiller for the economy. We started off not knowing what he was like on a personal level and gave him a minority government; and then slow but steady increased the minority. The N.D.P. is strong enough to stand up to his majority; they've already done it when they filibustered the postal-workers back to work legislation. Even though it's a transitional period as they prepare to choose a new leader I think they'll still find ways to make their message heard.
Toronto Voters chose Rob Ford last October; and they need him. David Miller says he left a $350 million surplus, but so far there are no signs of it. Surplus or not, the city is still in a pretty big hole and something has to give. The cuts will be painful, but if the result is a more prosperous Ontario capital, then isn't it worth it? Toronto voters also chose more federal Conservatives to represent them in Ottawa showing that fear of Conservatives in Toronto might be on the decline.
I don't find anything scary about a possible "Premier Hudak." Polls show a minority with Andrea Horwath in a king-maker role. I think she'd be a strong enough influence at Queen's Park. Polls show a minority mostly because even after months of campaigning we still don't know Tim Hudak that well. Why couldn't we treat Hudak, the same way we treated Harper? Give him a minority for a while, and see what he can do
The whole idea of a "Conservative hat trick" seems more a reaction of a Premier desperate to hold on. His platform is in tatters, and all he has left is a record in which the scandals outweigh the successes. Fear is basically the last tactic open to him. Well I say, embrace the fear- let's give Hudak a try. If we find electing him wasn't the best idea we ever had we can always switch it up in a year or so.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Leaders Debate Analyisis
I think Andrea Horwath won the leaders debate last night. She got her policy out the clearest, and seemed at times refreshingly blunt on issues such as health care. She also got in a few good lines; most notably: "Isn't that guy your leader now?" referring to Bob Rae as leader of the federal Liberal Party. Rae I think still casts a long shadow over the Ontario NDP for some voters, and it was important for her to put some distance between them, and she did that using humour.
I wonder where the Tim Hudak shown to us last night was a month ago? He was clear, and more confident on his policies than he ever has been to-date. If he was like that a month ago, this election would be a walk in the park for him. He had the oft-quoted line "Nobody trusts you anymore Mr. McGuinty." I think that's going to turn into a ballot question, and really resonates with voters. Because the fact is- few people do trust him anymore.
The Dalton McGuinty I watched last night was at times tentative. The hand gestures were sometimes stiff, and at others elaborate, and defensive. It's natural to use hand gestures at times to use for all of us- when we're excited or just to illustrate a point. But in McGuinty's case it came across as nervous and defensive. And it was distracting from what he was saying. I wondered if he was trying to flag down Steve Paikin for the cheque or something... maybe reflecting on a past career as a rap artist nobody knows about??
In terms of substance McGuinty was weak. Where the others managed to answer the question, and get in their policy, McGuinty made a habit of answering the question he wished had been asked. The debate was full of issues it seemed he didn't want to talk about. Green Energy- the gas-fired plant he cancelled over the weekend, and the Samsung deal. Jobs: the contentious plan to give 10 thousand to companies who hire foreign workers. The Economy? How to get rid of the $14-16 billion deficit he's racked up. Taxes- the introduction of the HST, and the past broken promises on that subject. He seemed to fall back on his record, which, is so laden with broken promises and scandal it blots out anything he's achieved on the positive side like reducing surgical wait times, and expanding the use of the Primecare Family Health teams.
I don't think this debate makes much difference in terms of voting preferences. But it did crystallise where the parties stand on the issues, and helped differentiate Hudak from McGuinty a little bit more. It made Horwath a legitimate third option, and cemented this election as a three-way contest come October 6, 2011. It's going to be a wild finish.
I wonder where the Tim Hudak shown to us last night was a month ago? He was clear, and more confident on his policies than he ever has been to-date. If he was like that a month ago, this election would be a walk in the park for him. He had the oft-quoted line "Nobody trusts you anymore Mr. McGuinty." I think that's going to turn into a ballot question, and really resonates with voters. Because the fact is- few people do trust him anymore.
The Dalton McGuinty I watched last night was at times tentative. The hand gestures were sometimes stiff, and at others elaborate, and defensive. It's natural to use hand gestures at times to use for all of us- when we're excited or just to illustrate a point. But in McGuinty's case it came across as nervous and defensive. And it was distracting from what he was saying. I wondered if he was trying to flag down Steve Paikin for the cheque or something... maybe reflecting on a past career as a rap artist nobody knows about??
In terms of substance McGuinty was weak. Where the others managed to answer the question, and get in their policy, McGuinty made a habit of answering the question he wished had been asked. The debate was full of issues it seemed he didn't want to talk about. Green Energy- the gas-fired plant he cancelled over the weekend, and the Samsung deal. Jobs: the contentious plan to give 10 thousand to companies who hire foreign workers. The Economy? How to get rid of the $14-16 billion deficit he's racked up. Taxes- the introduction of the HST, and the past broken promises on that subject. He seemed to fall back on his record, which, is so laden with broken promises and scandal it blots out anything he's achieved on the positive side like reducing surgical wait times, and expanding the use of the Primecare Family Health teams.
I don't think this debate makes much difference in terms of voting preferences. But it did crystallise where the parties stand on the issues, and helped differentiate Hudak from McGuinty a little bit more. It made Horwath a legitimate third option, and cemented this election as a three-way contest come October 6, 2011. It's going to be a wild finish.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Why don't they talk about...
With less than two weeks to go before we enter the voting booth, there are still some things that haven't been talked about this campaign. Here are what I think some of them are:
1. Caledonia: It's still a stalemate over five years later. Hudak, and Horwath could really hammer McGuinty on this one. In my opinion- McGuinty failed in his duty to protect his people. History has a bad habit of repeating itself; fear of a repeat of what happened at Ipperwash probably caused the inaction. It goes to leadership; you see a problem and solve it.
2. The Self-employed: Surveys have shown that although unemployment is growing, so too are the self-employed. The federal government has responded to this, extending maternity/paternity benefits, as well as some health benefits to them. All provincial parties aren't looking at this, and it should be discussed.
3. Affordable Housing: Someone in a recent interview I did pointed out that even though many parts of the province have the same issues, they look different. Homelessness for example looks different in Grimsby than it does in Toronto or even Milton. For example it costs around $700/ month in Grimsby to rent an apartment- expensive; especially when you're a homeless youth with limited job prospects. Even the acknowledgement there is a problem, and it can't be solved with one blanket solution would be a step in the right direction.
4. The "Single" Person: Believe me, I understand the focus on family. It's the core of society- we all start off members of a family. But here's the thing; we all grow up and become fine upstanding tax-paying citizens. Some marry, and have kids of their own. Some choose to remain single. And yet despite all this the "Single person is being ignored. Elections can come down to single vote victories, so remember the single person.
These are just four issues not being discussed. If there's an issue you feel strongly our leaders should tackle, then feel free to leave a comment. Who knows? maybe with a little over week to go, maybe a couple of them will get attention.
1. Caledonia: It's still a stalemate over five years later. Hudak, and Horwath could really hammer McGuinty on this one. In my opinion- McGuinty failed in his duty to protect his people. History has a bad habit of repeating itself; fear of a repeat of what happened at Ipperwash probably caused the inaction. It goes to leadership; you see a problem and solve it.
2. The Self-employed: Surveys have shown that although unemployment is growing, so too are the self-employed. The federal government has responded to this, extending maternity/paternity benefits, as well as some health benefits to them. All provincial parties aren't looking at this, and it should be discussed.
3. Affordable Housing: Someone in a recent interview I did pointed out that even though many parts of the province have the same issues, they look different. Homelessness for example looks different in Grimsby than it does in Toronto or even Milton. For example it costs around $700/ month in Grimsby to rent an apartment- expensive; especially when you're a homeless youth with limited job prospects. Even the acknowledgement there is a problem, and it can't be solved with one blanket solution would be a step in the right direction.
4. The "Single" Person: Believe me, I understand the focus on family. It's the core of society- we all start off members of a family. But here's the thing; we all grow up and become fine upstanding tax-paying citizens. Some marry, and have kids of their own. Some choose to remain single. And yet despite all this the "Single person is being ignored. Elections can come down to single vote victories, so remember the single person.
These are just four issues not being discussed. If there's an issue you feel strongly our leaders should tackle, then feel free to leave a comment. Who knows? maybe with a little over week to go, maybe a couple of them will get attention.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Let the Games Begin
The campaign's been running all summer, and yesterday it finally officially kicked off. Who will win? How will they tackle the key issues? Both questions will be answered over the next month.
Right now I'm predicting a minority government.The Liberals on the surface are running a surprisingly strong campaign. Scratch below the surface though, and I find myself following the money; how are they going to afford it all? They're promising tuition credits for students in middle-class families, tax credits for companies hiring foreign workers, and to build or expand new hospitals as well as building 3 new campuses in the G.T.A. alone. All with a deficit sitting somewhere in the $15-20 billion range. Their positive is McGuinty himself. By mocking himself as one of the most unpopular people in the country, he's taking the sting out of it. He's coming across as natural in some of their commercials; gone is the almost wooden behavior he displays in the media.
While the Liberals are running a strong campaign, the P.C.'s are running a weaker one. That kind of surprises me because their platform does have substance, and the McGuinty government doesn't have the best record to run on. The P.C.'s message is too negative now- all summer I've been hearing about McGuinty the taxman. We all know that; we've lived through it, and still paying for it Now tell us how you plan to reverse that; a cut to the H.S.T. across the board would probably do more good for more people than the targeted elimination on some products and services. Hudak wants to eliminate the Local Health Integrated networks (L.H.I.N.), and invest the money saved form it into front-line health care. How much would that save exactly? Where specifically would invest it- would it be in building more, and expanding hospitals? Hudak has been labelled "Mike Harris Light" by the Liberals and has done nothing to get out in front,and neutralize it.
The N.D.P. is a wild card. Andrea Horwath is a clear communicator; she made no bones about wanting the job. It's quite likely she may be a king-maker in the case of a minority. She's clear about the party's beliefs, and where they stand on the issues. Such clarity could see her come up the middle between Hudak and McGuinty; while they're sniping each and either win the election or become leader of the opposition. I believe people are still looking for a change and so far she seems to capture it.
It's early in the campaign, and I don't think the latest poll showing McGuinty in the lead nearing majority territory doesn't matter much. There's a lot of a campaign to be run- mistakes to be made, and points to be won. Let the games begin.
Right now I'm predicting a minority government.The Liberals on the surface are running a surprisingly strong campaign. Scratch below the surface though, and I find myself following the money; how are they going to afford it all? They're promising tuition credits for students in middle-class families, tax credits for companies hiring foreign workers, and to build or expand new hospitals as well as building 3 new campuses in the G.T.A. alone. All with a deficit sitting somewhere in the $15-20 billion range. Their positive is McGuinty himself. By mocking himself as one of the most unpopular people in the country, he's taking the sting out of it. He's coming across as natural in some of their commercials; gone is the almost wooden behavior he displays in the media.
While the Liberals are running a strong campaign, the P.C.'s are running a weaker one. That kind of surprises me because their platform does have substance, and the McGuinty government doesn't have the best record to run on. The P.C.'s message is too negative now- all summer I've been hearing about McGuinty the taxman. We all know that; we've lived through it, and still paying for it Now tell us how you plan to reverse that; a cut to the H.S.T. across the board would probably do more good for more people than the targeted elimination on some products and services. Hudak wants to eliminate the Local Health Integrated networks (L.H.I.N.), and invest the money saved form it into front-line health care. How much would that save exactly? Where specifically would invest it- would it be in building more, and expanding hospitals? Hudak has been labelled "Mike Harris Light" by the Liberals and has done nothing to get out in front,and neutralize it.
The N.D.P. is a wild card. Andrea Horwath is a clear communicator; she made no bones about wanting the job. It's quite likely she may be a king-maker in the case of a minority. She's clear about the party's beliefs, and where they stand on the issues. Such clarity could see her come up the middle between Hudak and McGuinty; while they're sniping each and either win the election or become leader of the opposition. I believe people are still looking for a change and so far she seems to capture it.
It's early in the campaign, and I don't think the latest poll showing McGuinty in the lead nearing majority territory doesn't matter much. There's a lot of a campaign to be run- mistakes to be made, and points to be won. Let the games begin.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Milton's Issues this Provincial Election
It's summer- the days are lazy, filled with heat, sunshine, pools and patios. Nobody wants to think about politics, but here we are two months out from another election and it may be time to start thinking about who to vote for. Inspired by a thread on the Hawthorne Villager, Here are What I believe to be Milton's issues?
1. Hospital Expansion: Ironically it's also the one issue the Town has little control over. As spelled out in the constitution, the Province are the ones with the power to decide how to allocate resources- including hospitals. Without a provincial government's permission the shovels won't go into the ground. The Progressive Conservative (P.C.'s) M.P.P. Ted Chudleigh has fought hard for the hospital, and will continue to do so; and his leader Tim Hudak has promised to get rid of the controversial LHINS (Local Health Integrated Networks), and use the money for front line health care
The Liberals have made hospital expansion a part of their platform, but in a vague way- and with the phrase "should fiscal capacity allow, (if they have the money)." Council continues making a convincing case based on growth any chance they get; sending copies of approvals for new subdivisions straight to the offices of Cabinet Ministers.
2. Infrastructure: There has been much talk lately of the Greater Toronto Area (G.T.A.) west corridor. This would include widening the 401 to 8-12 lanes through Milton, and adding the interchange at Tremaine Road. I'd like to see them move ahead with this project. While we're at it, how about transit? I'd love to see GO finally add full-day train service to the Milton Line. When I last asked about it, someone told me they'd put the study on it on hold, to do environmental assessment on electrifying the whole system.
3. Trust/ Accountability: Should probably have a higher ranking than third. But it is an issue. Can we trust these characters who are applying for the job of Premier? For his part McGuinty's record is rife with broken promises, and scandals: the $1 billion eHealth scandal, the O.L.G.C. scandals, the Green Energy deals, the health tax, the HST. He has admitted even if he wins, he may not hang around for another full term, and that just gives his whole campaign a completely defeatist attitude. Long-time Liberals are deserting the party among those David Caplan, and Greg Sobara are among the names not running.
Even though, I identify with the most with the P.C.'s policies, I find myself surprisingly underwhelmed by Tim Hudak. He has allowed the Liberals to define him negatively, and hasn't really done too much to stop it. I have to wonder if he'll connect well enough with voters- I've met him a few times through work, and didn't have a very flattering first impression- he looked down a lot, and seemed to make little eye contact. It's gotten better each meeting. Andrea Horwath is an unknown quantity; she comes across well, and has strong qualifications.
4. Education: Specifically the Milton Education Village (M.E.V.) Universities and colleges are expected to overflow in this part of the province. The Liberals have said they want the final decision on where satellite campuses are located. The P.C.'s want to add 6,000 new spots in post-secondary education and want the institutions to compete with each other for them. All-day kindergarten will be fully enacted in 2014-2015; something that's impossible to stop even if a possible future Premier wanted to.
These are just four of the issues I feel are facing Milton. I'm sure there are more- if you can think of any more simply leave a comment.
1. Hospital Expansion: Ironically it's also the one issue the Town has little control over. As spelled out in the constitution, the Province are the ones with the power to decide how to allocate resources- including hospitals. Without a provincial government's permission the shovels won't go into the ground. The Progressive Conservative (P.C.'s) M.P.P. Ted Chudleigh has fought hard for the hospital, and will continue to do so; and his leader Tim Hudak has promised to get rid of the controversial LHINS (Local Health Integrated Networks), and use the money for front line health care
The Liberals have made hospital expansion a part of their platform, but in a vague way- and with the phrase "should fiscal capacity allow, (if they have the money)." Council continues making a convincing case based on growth any chance they get; sending copies of approvals for new subdivisions straight to the offices of Cabinet Ministers.
2. Infrastructure: There has been much talk lately of the Greater Toronto Area (G.T.A.) west corridor. This would include widening the 401 to 8-12 lanes through Milton, and adding the interchange at Tremaine Road. I'd like to see them move ahead with this project. While we're at it, how about transit? I'd love to see GO finally add full-day train service to the Milton Line. When I last asked about it, someone told me they'd put the study on it on hold, to do environmental assessment on electrifying the whole system.
3. Trust/ Accountability: Should probably have a higher ranking than third. But it is an issue. Can we trust these characters who are applying for the job of Premier? For his part McGuinty's record is rife with broken promises, and scandals: the $1 billion eHealth scandal, the O.L.G.C. scandals, the Green Energy deals, the health tax, the HST. He has admitted even if he wins, he may not hang around for another full term, and that just gives his whole campaign a completely defeatist attitude. Long-time Liberals are deserting the party among those David Caplan, and Greg Sobara are among the names not running.
Even though, I identify with the most with the P.C.'s policies, I find myself surprisingly underwhelmed by Tim Hudak. He has allowed the Liberals to define him negatively, and hasn't really done too much to stop it. I have to wonder if he'll connect well enough with voters- I've met him a few times through work, and didn't have a very flattering first impression- he looked down a lot, and seemed to make little eye contact. It's gotten better each meeting. Andrea Horwath is an unknown quantity; she comes across well, and has strong qualifications.
4. Education: Specifically the Milton Education Village (M.E.V.) Universities and colleges are expected to overflow in this part of the province. The Liberals have said they want the final decision on where satellite campuses are located. The P.C.'s want to add 6,000 new spots in post-secondary education and want the institutions to compete with each other for them. All-day kindergarten will be fully enacted in 2014-2015; something that's impossible to stop even if a possible future Premier wanted to.
These are just four of the issues I feel are facing Milton. I'm sure there are more- if you can think of any more simply leave a comment.
Friday, July 29, 2011
The Liberal Platform: "The Ontario Way"
if the Ontario Way website is it for the Liberal platform, then that party is in worse shape than I thought. The platform rests on a questionable government record (putting it kindly), and pretty much does nothing accept brag about their own achievements. They make few promises that are really comparable to the Progressive Conservatives' Changebook, unlike that document no realistic numbers or detailed plans are provided here. The party breaks the platform down to five main categories: Jobs, health, community, education, and family finances.
Under the Jobs category it states Ontario recovered 124% of jobs lost in the 2008 recession "faster than our major trading partners," with a graph featuring the United States (U.S.) and the United Kingdom (U.K.) Arguably the United States, and the United Kingdom were both worse off than the Canadian economy to begin with. The sub-prime mortgage crisis, and collapse of some financial institutions in the U.S. were contributing factors to America's recession. The United Kingdom is part of the European Union, and was likely affected by what happened in other parts of the trade zone. Couple that with the job creation caused caused in part by Canada's Economic Action plan, and the government bailout of the auto sector and is it any wonder Ontario recovered its jobs faster?
As for Health...Their website says the Liberal government hired "thousands of nurses," offered spots to more international grads than any other province, and have built 18 new hospitals. By the way in their 10-year infrastructure plan they've promised to build more hospitals, and expand others "should fiscal capacity allow," aka if they can afford it. My question is how much of this success has been borne on the backs of Ontarians through the much maligned health tax? The party also mentions eliminating coal fire generators- I'm all for it, if it can be done safely, and we have alternatives ready. In the mean time, what about looking into ways you can cleanly burn coal instead?
Under community it trumpets the government's cosmetic pesticide ban. That's a good thing for the environment and for people's overall health yes, but in 8 years is that all you've done for Ontario's communities? What about investment in community infrastructure (roads, arenas, arts centres)? Or what about keeping communities safe? I find it hard to believe a pesticide ban is the absolute best achievement you can think of for this section.
The education section announces the government's intention to completely implement the full-day Kindergarten by 2014-2015; 3-4 years away. Does this even belong on the platform for now? It's not yet completed, and there's no guarantee it will be carried over should McGuinty lose the election. I think a future government's hands are tied on this one; it's too far into the process now. And as for the estimated $6500/ year in savings to parents- how much of that goes back to the government in taxes?
Parents save $1400 on children's vaccines according to the family finances section of the platform. The provincial Liberals have offered 10% off on hydro bills in the form of an Ontario energy benefit. I'm naturally suspicious- or cynical, but I have to ask: If re-elected where will the provincial liberals make up that 10%? In new user fees? or maybe a new tax?
I hope there is more to the Liberal platform than this. The "Ontario Way" right now lacks the vision, and new ideas I'd hope to see from a party that has the significant advantage of having been in power for 8 years and is asking for a third mandate. It's as if the Liberals have given up before the campaign has really begun.
Under the Jobs category it states Ontario recovered 124% of jobs lost in the 2008 recession "faster than our major trading partners," with a graph featuring the United States (U.S.) and the United Kingdom (U.K.) Arguably the United States, and the United Kingdom were both worse off than the Canadian economy to begin with. The sub-prime mortgage crisis, and collapse of some financial institutions in the U.S. were contributing factors to America's recession. The United Kingdom is part of the European Union, and was likely affected by what happened in other parts of the trade zone. Couple that with the job creation caused caused in part by Canada's Economic Action plan, and the government bailout of the auto sector and is it any wonder Ontario recovered its jobs faster?
As for Health...Their website says the Liberal government hired "thousands of nurses," offered spots to more international grads than any other province, and have built 18 new hospitals. By the way in their 10-year infrastructure plan they've promised to build more hospitals, and expand others "should fiscal capacity allow," aka if they can afford it. My question is how much of this success has been borne on the backs of Ontarians through the much maligned health tax? The party also mentions eliminating coal fire generators- I'm all for it, if it can be done safely, and we have alternatives ready. In the mean time, what about looking into ways you can cleanly burn coal instead?
Under community it trumpets the government's cosmetic pesticide ban. That's a good thing for the environment and for people's overall health yes, but in 8 years is that all you've done for Ontario's communities? What about investment in community infrastructure (roads, arenas, arts centres)? Or what about keeping communities safe? I find it hard to believe a pesticide ban is the absolute best achievement you can think of for this section.
The education section announces the government's intention to completely implement the full-day Kindergarten by 2014-2015; 3-4 years away. Does this even belong on the platform for now? It's not yet completed, and there's no guarantee it will be carried over should McGuinty lose the election. I think a future government's hands are tied on this one; it's too far into the process now. And as for the estimated $6500/ year in savings to parents- how much of that goes back to the government in taxes?
Parents save $1400 on children's vaccines according to the family finances section of the platform. The provincial Liberals have offered 10% off on hydro bills in the form of an Ontario energy benefit. I'm naturally suspicious- or cynical, but I have to ask: If re-elected where will the provincial liberals make up that 10%? In new user fees? or maybe a new tax?
I hope there is more to the Liberal platform than this. The "Ontario Way" right now lacks the vision, and new ideas I'd hope to see from a party that has the significant advantage of having been in power for 8 years and is asking for a third mandate. It's as if the Liberals have given up before the campaign has really begun.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Life is a highway... but it doesn't have to be
Much has been made of the idea to build a highway through the escarpment that would connect Niagara with the Greater Toronto area: Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) with the 401. Town council voted against the idea instead deciding to back a recommendation to widen the 401 through Milton. A new highway would decrease the supply of prime farmland in this area, plus likely do environmental damage as well.
There are fears that although the Liberals have shot down the idea, if Hudak wins the October election he will go ahead with it. They may be justified- nobody can see the future. Flipping it around- if the Liberals are re-elected they may go ahead with the highway after all it is an election year. I think, coming from a farming area himself Hudak may be more understanding about it. The fact we're even talking about a new highway acknowledges in the future we could have a problem with mobility for people and goods.
Maybe what we need here, isn't necessarily a new highway. Maybe what we need is a wholesale culture makeover. A growing number of us work in jobs where we don't have to physically go to an office five days a week, or are lucky enough that thanks to technology we can work from home all the time. A number of us carpool. What if we gave tax breaks to businesses who allowed teleworking? Or what if we gave area businesses discounted transit passes?
I believe if you build it they will come- as corny as it sounds.If you build me a reliable, affordable, accessible transit system I'll be just as likely to use it as to drive the car- maybe more so depending on my destination. I see Metrolinx making slow progress in that direction; Councilor Colin Best added an amendment at Regional Council that would ask Metrolinx to accelerate their "Big Move" projects. so we're making slow progress, and I know there are plans to improve things in the future by connecting the different areas of Halton Region through transit.
I'd also make it so that any new main road more than two lanes (a Louis St. Laurent type of street), should have at least one lane either direction dedicated to public transit/ H.O.V. (carpool) traffic. Provincially make it so that any future new highway (e.g. : 400 series) should have at least one lane in either direction dedicated to transit. If the highway is 8-12 lanes in each direction, I'd increase it to a minimum of two lanes in either direction. It was a huge mistake not developing transit at the same time as we developed roads, and our communities, if we had we might not have this problem now.
As Tom Cochrane says "Life is a highway." But it doesn't have to be in Halton if we start making transit a regular part of our lives and a part of our future.
There are fears that although the Liberals have shot down the idea, if Hudak wins the October election he will go ahead with it. They may be justified- nobody can see the future. Flipping it around- if the Liberals are re-elected they may go ahead with the highway after all it is an election year. I think, coming from a farming area himself Hudak may be more understanding about it. The fact we're even talking about a new highway acknowledges in the future we could have a problem with mobility for people and goods.
Maybe what we need here, isn't necessarily a new highway. Maybe what we need is a wholesale culture makeover. A growing number of us work in jobs where we don't have to physically go to an office five days a week, or are lucky enough that thanks to technology we can work from home all the time. A number of us carpool. What if we gave tax breaks to businesses who allowed teleworking? Or what if we gave area businesses discounted transit passes?
I believe if you build it they will come- as corny as it sounds.If you build me a reliable, affordable, accessible transit system I'll be just as likely to use it as to drive the car- maybe more so depending on my destination. I see Metrolinx making slow progress in that direction; Councilor Colin Best added an amendment at Regional Council that would ask Metrolinx to accelerate their "Big Move" projects. so we're making slow progress, and I know there are plans to improve things in the future by connecting the different areas of Halton Region through transit.
I'd also make it so that any new main road more than two lanes (a Louis St. Laurent type of street), should have at least one lane either direction dedicated to public transit/ H.O.V. (carpool) traffic. Provincially make it so that any future new highway (e.g. : 400 series) should have at least one lane in either direction dedicated to transit. If the highway is 8-12 lanes in each direction, I'd increase it to a minimum of two lanes in either direction. It was a huge mistake not developing transit at the same time as we developed roads, and our communities, if we had we might not have this problem now.
As Tom Cochrane says "Life is a highway." But it doesn't have to be in Halton if we start making transit a regular part of our lives and a part of our future.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
To fund or not... We may not know the answer until after the election
Premier Dalton McGuinty prorogued the provincial legislature until after this October's election. He did it without a whisper of opposition, without an outcry from the public. It also happened without the release of the list of who gets what infrastructure money over the next 10 years. Milton's hopes for a hospital expansion have to wait another few months yet, and that's not right.
Milton has been fighting for its expansion for the last 15 years or more, and the need has become critical in the last five. The pressure reached a fever pitch with the Friends of Milton District Hospital postcard campaign, and most recently with the petition that got 6 thousand signatures and was presented by MPP Ted Chudleigh at Queen's Park, and the rally held at Milton's Victoria Park.
Milton was supposed to be on a list of 50 communities slated to be released this month. But that may not come out now until after the October election. I doubt we were even on it. I was able to cover the Mayor's Breakfast a while back, and the special guest was Infrastructure Minister Bob Charielli. Ted Chudleigh was seated near the front of the room to hear the Minister go after both Tim Hudak, and himself in what was an extremely partisan speech. It left me the impression that it was vaguely personal- Chudleigh had been a pain in the Liberals' backside, and they were going to do and say whatever they had to, in order to stop the P.C.'s from taking the riding again. And if that meant denying a town that so obviously needs expanded hospital facilities, then so be it... the election campaign is on- all's fair in love and elections. The hospital may be dangled like a carrot to get us voting Liberal.
An expanded hospital has become a vital need for Milton. There is no room for proper surgical waiting areas, and the infrastructure that could support the latest equipment (sterilizers) has reached the end of its useful life. In the fairly recent experiences I've had, the great staff are doing their best with what they have. But I'm sure even they grow as frustrated as various councilors are.
I think the only thing to be done is to give up. Give up fighting this government- wait until the next one is elected; because I believe it will be Progressive Conservative. Having toured the facilities, I think Hudak has a much better grasp of what Milton needs than the Premier ever would. And if he doesn't give Milton the money, then Chudleigh could become as big a pain in Hudak's rear end as he is to the Liberals.
Milton has been fighting for its expansion for the last 15 years or more, and the need has become critical in the last five. The pressure reached a fever pitch with the Friends of Milton District Hospital postcard campaign, and most recently with the petition that got 6 thousand signatures and was presented by MPP Ted Chudleigh at Queen's Park, and the rally held at Milton's Victoria Park.
Milton was supposed to be on a list of 50 communities slated to be released this month. But that may not come out now until after the October election. I doubt we were even on it. I was able to cover the Mayor's Breakfast a while back, and the special guest was Infrastructure Minister Bob Charielli. Ted Chudleigh was seated near the front of the room to hear the Minister go after both Tim Hudak, and himself in what was an extremely partisan speech. It left me the impression that it was vaguely personal- Chudleigh had been a pain in the Liberals' backside, and they were going to do and say whatever they had to, in order to stop the P.C.'s from taking the riding again. And if that meant denying a town that so obviously needs expanded hospital facilities, then so be it... the election campaign is on- all's fair in love and elections. The hospital may be dangled like a carrot to get us voting Liberal.
An expanded hospital has become a vital need for Milton. There is no room for proper surgical waiting areas, and the infrastructure that could support the latest equipment (sterilizers) has reached the end of its useful life. In the fairly recent experiences I've had, the great staff are doing their best with what they have. But I'm sure even they grow as frustrated as various councilors are.
I think the only thing to be done is to give up. Give up fighting this government- wait until the next one is elected; because I believe it will be Progressive Conservative. Having toured the facilities, I think Hudak has a much better grasp of what Milton needs than the Premier ever would. And if he doesn't give Milton the money, then Chudleigh could become as big a pain in Hudak's rear end as he is to the Liberals.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Progressive Conservative "Change Book"
The Progressive Conservative platform Changebook is a winner from a communications standpoint. It hits on the themes of voters who want change, family, and general fatigue with the broken promises and scandal of the McGuinty regime. Reading it, you can practically hear Hudak's voice in parts of it. I think it captures a mood in Ontario that maybe the Liberals haven't caught onto yet.
And it really does promise change for families; income splitting for parents; tax breaks for caregivers with elderly family members. Help with red tape for small business, a promise to put more money into healthcare. The idea of "Justice for all," to make prisoners in Ontario Jails work for their privlages. Hudak wants to clean up government and has promised no tax increases unless they have a mandate to do so. A noble promise yes, but who actually gives their government a mandate to raise taxes? It's ridiculous.
But; what's in it for me? I'm not a family yet. I'm not a caregiver for an elderly family member, or a small business. I'm a little bit past the initial university/ college stage to benefit from changes to the apprenticeship program. I'm just a single person trying to make my way in the world; keep up with all my bills. It appears there's nothing really in the platform for me for people like me... I was hoping for an HST cut at least. It's all well and good to base a platform around families; just remember single people live here too.
And it really does promise change for families; income splitting for parents; tax breaks for caregivers with elderly family members. Help with red tape for small business, a promise to put more money into healthcare. The idea of "Justice for all," to make prisoners in Ontario Jails work for their privlages. Hudak wants to clean up government and has promised no tax increases unless they have a mandate to do so. A noble promise yes, but who actually gives their government a mandate to raise taxes? It's ridiculous.
But; what's in it for me? I'm not a family yet. I'm not a caregiver for an elderly family member, or a small business. I'm a little bit past the initial university/ college stage to benefit from changes to the apprenticeship program. I'm just a single person trying to make my way in the world; keep up with all my bills. It appears there's nothing really in the platform for me for people like me... I was hoping for an HST cut at least. It's all well and good to base a platform around families; just remember single people live here too.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
The Mayor's Breakfast
I'm declaring a bias. I think Ted Chudleigh is a good man, and has done a good job representing the voters. He's been yelling long, and loud about the hospital- and is widely seen, and known in the riding. I think he will win the next provincial election. As a member of the press, he's been available and willing to answer my questions in a direct way.
This past Tuesday was Mayor's Breakfast- an annual gathering of business leaders, and politicians to hear about the year that was in Milton. Attending was MPP Ted Chudleigh MP Lisa Raitt, Mayor Gord Krantz, and a special guest Minister Bob Chairelli of Infrastructure who made a few remarks. He was introduced by the Mayor, and then proceeded to blast Mr. Hudak over the PC's stance on infrastructure funding. He was free to make them, but was it the right forum?
I don't think it was. He was there to celebrate the completion of the Arts Centre- a project that was completed despite our MPP being a member of the opposition- and our Federal MP being a Conservative. Such cooperation is rare in this atmosphere and should be celebrated when it happens. Besides isn't there some kind of unwritten code about government members (in this case a Liberal) coming into a riding and slagging the MPP (a Progressive Conservative) when he's sitting right in front of the podium or vice versa?
I don't think it was because it was in front of a business audience- the only other politician who spoke was Mayor Krantz. Usually when politicians are campaigning in that atmosphere it's more an argument saying what they'll do to improve business, and the economy- arguing for votes. This wasn't; it was more of a rant against Mr. Hudak, and Mr. Chudleigh. And when it came down to spelling out what the Liberals would do for infrastructure he pointed to a "10-point plan" that they think is"visionary and forward thinking." I'm pretty sure they meant the Places to Grow legislation, but then again the Minister wasn't specific.
I was talking to a friend afterwards, and he pointed out a double standard. Let's face it, if it was the other way around- the PC's would've been completely blasted by the Liberals. And he's right. But so far Tim Hudak has done nothing to define himself in a positive way, so this early negativity could stick- and be so memorable the PC's will again be sitting in opposition on October 7, 2011.
I feel like I should challenge our provincial politicians. You are better than petty bickering- both sides have ideas, and different visions for governing Ontario. Let's have an election based on those instead of bickering. Who knows you might actually interest a few voters.
This past Tuesday was Mayor's Breakfast- an annual gathering of business leaders, and politicians to hear about the year that was in Milton. Attending was MPP Ted Chudleigh MP Lisa Raitt, Mayor Gord Krantz, and a special guest Minister Bob Chairelli of Infrastructure who made a few remarks. He was introduced by the Mayor, and then proceeded to blast Mr. Hudak over the PC's stance on infrastructure funding. He was free to make them, but was it the right forum?
I don't think it was. He was there to celebrate the completion of the Arts Centre- a project that was completed despite our MPP being a member of the opposition- and our Federal MP being a Conservative. Such cooperation is rare in this atmosphere and should be celebrated when it happens. Besides isn't there some kind of unwritten code about government members (in this case a Liberal) coming into a riding and slagging the MPP (a Progressive Conservative) when he's sitting right in front of the podium or vice versa?
I don't think it was because it was in front of a business audience- the only other politician who spoke was Mayor Krantz. Usually when politicians are campaigning in that atmosphere it's more an argument saying what they'll do to improve business, and the economy- arguing for votes. This wasn't; it was more of a rant against Mr. Hudak, and Mr. Chudleigh. And when it came down to spelling out what the Liberals would do for infrastructure he pointed to a "10-point plan" that they think is"visionary and forward thinking." I'm pretty sure they meant the Places to Grow legislation, but then again the Minister wasn't specific.
I was talking to a friend afterwards, and he pointed out a double standard. Let's face it, if it was the other way around- the PC's would've been completely blasted by the Liberals. And he's right. But so far Tim Hudak has done nothing to define himself in a positive way, so this early negativity could stick- and be so memorable the PC's will again be sitting in opposition on October 7, 2011.
I feel like I should challenge our provincial politicians. You are better than petty bickering- both sides have ideas, and different visions for governing Ontario. Let's have an election based on those instead of bickering. Who knows you might actually interest a few voters.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Lifting The Curtain
In this week's Halton Compass, I did a story on Ted Chudleigh's nomination as the Progressive Conservative (PC) candidate in next year's provincial election. In town for the meeting, and events related to the ongoing fight against the HST was PC Leader Tim Hudak. Following the formal part of the meeting, my colleague from the Champion and I were offered time with the leader... we're reporters and it's not everyday we're offered time with the leader of the opposition, and someone who could potentially be the next Premier of Ontario. So we took it, and my colleauge's article is also in this week's Champion. He chose to focus on the hospital, and the local funding' portion.
But here's where we differ. I read the situation in a completely different manner. The way I read it was here was a man who is probably 1 year out from fighting a provincial election. Hudak wants to make frontline healthcare a priority, but admits he needs a better business environment if the province is to continue its financial recovery. And on some level I think he realizes financially the needed financial committment may not be possible. He wants to disband the LHINS (Local Health Integrated Network) but doesn't know what if anything to replace them with.
Call me an eternal optimist, but I think we should take a wait-and see approach before we discount the DC idea. It's a long time between now and next October.
But here's where we differ. I read the situation in a completely different manner. The way I read it was here was a man who is probably 1 year out from fighting a provincial election. Hudak wants to make frontline healthcare a priority, but admits he needs a better business environment if the province is to continue its financial recovery. And on some level I think he realizes financially the needed financial committment may not be possible. He wants to disband the LHINS (Local Health Integrated Network) but doesn't know what if anything to replace them with.
Call me an eternal optimist, but I think we should take a wait-and see approach before we discount the DC idea. It's a long time between now and next October.
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