By MPP Toby Barrett Time has run out on 2014. From a provincial political perspective, the past year can be nicely divided on either side of the June election. And as we enter the new year, we still have the potential to get Ontario working again. We can weather a painful transition to a new, … Continue reading “The 2014 election ended Ontario’s minority government”
Category: Column Articles
By MPP Toby Barrett As we near the 100th anniversary of the first Christmas of World War I, there is a story of humanity that was found in the trenches. In one of the most extraordinary episodes of modern warfare – the Christmas Truce of 1914 – opposing soldiers saw their enemies not as monsters … Continue reading “We can reflect on the WWI Christmas truce of 1914”
By MPP Toby Barrett The recent debate of Bill 31, Make Ontario’s Road Safer Act, raises some issues that hit close to home in regards to road safety. While this government talks road safety, Native protestors have again shut down construction of the Cayuga bridge – an important safety and transportation issue. During debate of … Continue reading “More needed to make Haldimand, Norfolk roads safer”
By MPP Toby Barrett If it’s…possible to start a war in a computer room or a stock exchange that will send an enemy country to its doom, then is there non-battlespace anywhere? If [a] young lad setting out with his orders should ask today, “Where is the battlefield?” the answer would be “Everywhere.” ~ Colonel … Continue reading “Ontario’s security measures updated…somewhat”
By MPP Toby Barrett During my years in the Ontario Legislature, there haven’t been many times MPPs from all sides of the House have come together to support proposed legislation. Recently, the second reading of my Private Member’s Bill on dealing with Lyme disease and other emerging infectious diseases received all-party support. And last week, … Continue reading “Infectious disease proposals get thumbs-up!”
By MPP Toby Barrett The recent Ontario government’s Fall Economic Statement paints a picture of a government scraping to make ends meet and a crumbling fiscal house. The picture is not pretty. Revenues are down by over $500 million this year. However, this government has never had a revenue problem – think back on 11 … Continue reading “We have a spending problem, not a revenue problem”
By MPP Toby Barrett As 2014 winds down, it looks like our Great Lakes have managed to keep Asian carp at bay for another year. With the list of invasive species, now established in the Great Lakes reaching 185 some people aren’t taking the threat of Asian carp seriously, assuming it to be another addition … Continue reading “Can we hold the Asian carp invasion at bay?”
By MPP Toby Barrett Over the past 11 years, we’ve seen the government enrage Ontarians with high-profile scandals – most recently the MaRS building, Ornge, gas plants, Caledonia, and going back to OLG and eHealth. Now, Premier Wynne has initiated a new transparency and accountability law across government to once and for all attempt to … Continue reading “Lack of transparency/accountability generates new law”
By MPP Toby Barrett This years’ time of remembrance is particularly significant. We recognize not only the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812-14, but also the 100th anniversary of the commencement of World War I, and the 75th anniversary of the onset of the Second World War. In their book Norfolk, Haldimand and the … Continue reading “This time of remembrance marks three anniversaries”
By MPP Toby Barrett By and large, towing companies, garages and storage yards provide efficient and reputable service. However, a minority are taking advantage of consumers and their insurance coverage. Many of us do have experiences with the towing industry, and mine have been positive in Haldimand–Norfolk. We’ve got local companies and garages that help … Continue reading “Tow operators – ‘the good, the bad and the ugly’”