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 andrea horwath. Show all posts
Showing posts with label andrea horwath. 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 23, 2012
Stories to Watch: April 23- 30
What stories am I watching this week? Here's the answer:
1. The Budget Dance: Will Andrea Horwath support Dalton McGuinty's budget? Will there be a bargain struck today that will ensure the government survives to fight another few months? Or will we be heading to the polls? So many questions, so few answers. We find out the final answer tomorrow. An interesting side-note to this story NewsTalk1010 is running a poll on their website asking listeners if they want the two of them to reach an agreement, or have an election. The results are surprising, at last check: 73.1% of people who answered the question want an election.
2. Ornge Inquiry: The all-parties public accounts committee at Queen's Park is conducting an inquiry into the misspending at the Ornge Air Ambulance Service. Last week we learned that one of McGuinty's political advisers knew what was going on, but did nothing. The committee also revealed plans to ask for a rarely used Speaker's warrant to be issued for former Ornge CEO Chris Mazza to appear in early May. The only problem: Nobody knows where Mazza is.
3. Alberta Election: Albertans could make history today by changing the Progressive Conservatives and Alison Redford for Danielle Smith and the Wild Rose Alliance. The P.C.'s have reigned supreme for the last 41 years, and some opinion polls indicate if they were to win, it would be a minority. If the Wild Rose Alliance wins it could set up an interesting dynamic within Canada, as the party takes a fairly confrontational attitude towards the province of Quebec.
4. Quebec Student Protests: Speaking of Quebec, the province's students continue their fight against possible tuition hikes. On Friday groups of protesters attacked the Montreal Convention Centre as Premier Jean Charest addressed the city's business community. There is a slight possibility Charest could call a provincial election.
5. Local Politics: Milton Town Council meets tonight (April 23, 2012). Some items on the agenda include; the Velodrome, a proposal to expand the Gymnastics facility at the Milton Sports Centre, and a notice of motion regarding the continued development of the Horse Industry from Ward 3 Councilor Cindy Lunau. For a full agenda click here. The link will take to the PDF format- you need an Adobe reader to view the agenda.
1. The Budget Dance: Will Andrea Horwath support Dalton McGuinty's budget? Will there be a bargain struck today that will ensure the government survives to fight another few months? Or will we be heading to the polls? So many questions, so few answers. We find out the final answer tomorrow. An interesting side-note to this story NewsTalk1010 is running a poll on their website asking listeners if they want the two of them to reach an agreement, or have an election. The results are surprising, at last check: 73.1% of people who answered the question want an election.
2. Ornge Inquiry: The all-parties public accounts committee at Queen's Park is conducting an inquiry into the misspending at the Ornge Air Ambulance Service. Last week we learned that one of McGuinty's political advisers knew what was going on, but did nothing. The committee also revealed plans to ask for a rarely used Speaker's warrant to be issued for former Ornge CEO Chris Mazza to appear in early May. The only problem: Nobody knows where Mazza is.
3. Alberta Election: Albertans could make history today by changing the Progressive Conservatives and Alison Redford for Danielle Smith and the Wild Rose Alliance. The P.C.'s have reigned supreme for the last 41 years, and some opinion polls indicate if they were to win, it would be a minority. If the Wild Rose Alliance wins it could set up an interesting dynamic within Canada, as the party takes a fairly confrontational attitude towards the province of Quebec.
4. Quebec Student Protests: Speaking of Quebec, the province's students continue their fight against possible tuition hikes. On Friday groups of protesters attacked the Montreal Convention Centre as Premier Jean Charest addressed the city's business community. There is a slight possibility Charest could call a provincial election.
5. Local Politics: Milton Town Council meets tonight (April 23, 2012). Some items on the agenda include; the Velodrome, a proposal to expand the Gymnastics facility at the Milton Sports Centre, and a notice of motion regarding the continued development of the Horse Industry from Ward 3 Councilor Cindy Lunau. For a full agenda click here. The link will take to the PDF format- you need an Adobe reader to view the agenda.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Ontario Budget Vote Day: April 24, 2012
The Ontario Liberals announced this morning they will bring their 2012 provincial budget to a vote April 24, 2012- one week from tomorrow. They also stated they've been unable so far to come to a deal with Andrea Horwath and the N.D.P, something vital for avoiding the second provincial election in a year.
I don't think this budget is worth going to an election over. The major weakness from where I sit is the lack of a job creation strategy. There is no reason the N.D.P's idea of a tax credit for companies creating new jobs can't be tweaked to suit the Liberals budget.
The problem with that is the Liberals have asked the N.D.P. to cost out their demands. This one carries a $250 million price tag. Where will the N.D.P. get the money? The answer lies likely in demand #1: a tax increase for those making over $500 thousand/ year. Essentially this could put the Premier known for repeating he will not raise taxes a penny more, in a position of having to raise taxes in order keep his government afloat. Something that amounts to political suicide for McGuinty, and something none of us wants.
An election right now won't benefit anyone. The low turnout last time will be surpassed by a turnout this time; people will vote with their feet and stay away. They'll say a pox upon all of your houses, and the results may even be messier than they are right now. Besides that, can a province that's billions in debt afford to throw out another $100 million?
The only thing it might do is force the Liberals to clean house at Health after the scandal at Ornge. Tempting as that is, I don't really think that's worth an election; the same can be done much cheaper with a simple resignation. The budget will be more like background noise for another campaign; it will be the fight being waged by the public sector unions against a pay freeze. It may even be framed as a discussion over the future of organized labour.
Will we have another election? My gut says no... that budget isn't worth going to a campaign over. But perhaps the ongoing fight against the attempted pay freeze may send us there; organized labour is a pretty powerful force in Ontario. Whatever happens the ball is clearly in Andrea Horwath's we'll know for sure April 24, 2012.
I don't think this budget is worth going to an election over. The major weakness from where I sit is the lack of a job creation strategy. There is no reason the N.D.P's idea of a tax credit for companies creating new jobs can't be tweaked to suit the Liberals budget.
The problem with that is the Liberals have asked the N.D.P. to cost out their demands. This one carries a $250 million price tag. Where will the N.D.P. get the money? The answer lies likely in demand #1: a tax increase for those making over $500 thousand/ year. Essentially this could put the Premier known for repeating he will not raise taxes a penny more, in a position of having to raise taxes in order keep his government afloat. Something that amounts to political suicide for McGuinty, and something none of us wants.
An election right now won't benefit anyone. The low turnout last time will be surpassed by a turnout this time; people will vote with their feet and stay away. They'll say a pox upon all of your houses, and the results may even be messier than they are right now. Besides that, can a province that's billions in debt afford to throw out another $100 million?
The only thing it might do is force the Liberals to clean house at Health after the scandal at Ornge. Tempting as that is, I don't really think that's worth an election; the same can be done much cheaper with a simple resignation. The budget will be more like background noise for another campaign; it will be the fight being waged by the public sector unions against a pay freeze. It may even be framed as a discussion over the future of organized labour.
Will we have another election? My gut says no... that budget isn't worth going to a campaign over. But perhaps the ongoing fight against the attempted pay freeze may send us there; organized labour is a pretty powerful force in Ontario. Whatever happens the ball is clearly in Andrea Horwath's we'll know for sure April 24, 2012.
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.
Monday, March 26, 2012
My Stories To Watch
We've got quite a week coming up in the news. Here's some of the stories I'll be watching for.
1.Provincial Budget: It has to be at the top of the list. The Provincial Liberals will present their first budget as a minority government. It's also quite a hot story locally, as local councilors await word of Milton Hospital expansion's fate. As the budget is financial issue, and it is a minority parliament it will be a matter of confidence. But what will happen? Will McGuinty have enough votes to pass it? Or will the opposition decide to flex its muscle and send us to another election? Or perhaps a more interesting possibility... are we going to see history of the '90's repeat itself and Andrea Horwath come to the forefront (Bob Rae anyone?)? What kind of role will Ornge play in it all?All of the drama will certainly play itself out over the next few days.
1a) In advance of tomorrow's provincial budget Ward 3 Councilor Cindy Lunau is presenting a motion at tonight's council meeting asking the Province to re-confirm its commitment to Milton Hospital expansion. Its text, along with contact information for you to make your wishes known to can be seen here. Just scroll down, it's near the bottom. Council meeting starts at 7pm in Chambers, or you can watch it here.
2. The Federal Budget: We're all being told this will be a document with modest cuts. We know there will be changes to Old-Age Security, the pensions system. They've been speaking of cuts to military spending, and the C.B.C. There will be cuts in the civil service. Politically it's going to pass with a majority- no guessing games here. But something to watch will be Thomas Mulcair's performance as he faces his first test the newly minted N.D.P. leader.
3. Ontario Superior Court strikes down Prostitution law: The Ontario Superior Court has begun the process that will make prostitution legal. The decision could potentially open the door to legal common bawdy houses, and allowing sex trade to hire body guards for example. The federal government has one year to respond to the ruling, but both sides have indicated they want to take it to the Supreme Court of Canada, which could lengthen the process to two years.
These are just some of the stories crossing my radar. Thoughts? Agree or disagree by all means leave a comment below.
1.Provincial Budget: It has to be at the top of the list. The Provincial Liberals will present their first budget as a minority government. It's also quite a hot story locally, as local councilors await word of Milton Hospital expansion's fate. As the budget is financial issue, and it is a minority parliament it will be a matter of confidence. But what will happen? Will McGuinty have enough votes to pass it? Or will the opposition decide to flex its muscle and send us to another election? Or perhaps a more interesting possibility... are we going to see history of the '90's repeat itself and Andrea Horwath come to the forefront (Bob Rae anyone?)? What kind of role will Ornge play in it all?All of the drama will certainly play itself out over the next few days.
1a) In advance of tomorrow's provincial budget Ward 3 Councilor Cindy Lunau is presenting a motion at tonight's council meeting asking the Province to re-confirm its commitment to Milton Hospital expansion. Its text, along with contact information for you to make your wishes known to can be seen here. Just scroll down, it's near the bottom. Council meeting starts at 7pm in Chambers, or you can watch it here.
2. The Federal Budget: We're all being told this will be a document with modest cuts. We know there will be changes to Old-Age Security, the pensions system. They've been speaking of cuts to military spending, and the C.B.C. There will be cuts in the civil service. Politically it's going to pass with a majority- no guessing games here. But something to watch will be Thomas Mulcair's performance as he faces his first test the newly minted N.D.P. leader.
3. Ontario Superior Court strikes down Prostitution law: The Ontario Superior Court has begun the process that will make prostitution legal. The decision could potentially open the door to legal common bawdy houses, and allowing sex trade to hire body guards for example. The federal government has one year to respond to the ruling, but both sides have indicated they want to take it to the Supreme Court of Canada, which could lengthen the process to two years.
These are just some of the stories crossing my radar. Thoughts? Agree or disagree by all means leave a comment below.
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.
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