By MPP Toby Barrett Over the past 70 years, Ontario’s labour legislation has steadily become out of step with economic realities across our province and the rest of the world. As Canada continues to broaden its trading partnerships with free trade agreements, fewer regulatory burdens and a less intrusive role for government in the economy, … Continue reading “Let’s make Ontario’s labour laws fairer for all”
Category: Column Articles
By MPP Toby Barrett With the kids out of school, let the travel season begin. For many, summer means packing up the family and heading out – map or GPS in hand – to find those quaint, interesting locations, often far from home. But look around and you will discover we are blessed with treasures … Continue reading “Take the time to enjoy a home-grown summer”
By MPP Toby Barrett As I write this column, the clock is winding down on the final window for public input on the McGuinty Government/Samsung deal whereby 67 industrial wind turbines and 800 acres of solar panels will arrive in Haldimand County. The closing of that window June 30th marks the next chapter for a … Continue reading “Samsung green light leaves unanswered questions”
By MPP Toby Barrett What do perch, pumpkins, natural gas and mudcats have in common? From Delhi to Dunnville, Port Rowan to Caledonia, we pay homage to the many wonders of our two counties. From long-established huge events to newer, quainter functions, our area is rich in festivals and community spirit. These festivals are a … Continue reading “No shortage of festivals to go to this summer!”
By MPP Toby Barrett As this column comes into print, I am finishing up at Queen’s Park and reflecting on the Spring Session. Prior to each session, my caucus colleagues and I sit down to devise a plan – a plan that addresses Ontario’s challenges and makes sense for you, the taxpayer. The key priorities … Continue reading “Ontario continues to kick the can down the road”
By MPP Toby Barrett “We can’t manage the deficit without addressing what is the single biggest line in our budget – public sector compensation.” – Finance Minister Dwight Duncan. Sadly, Ontario is facing a projected $30.2 billion deficit and a $411.4 billion debt by 2017-18 – over half that shortfall represents civil servant labour costs. … Continue reading “Ontario at a crossroads as bills come due”
By MPP Toby Barrett “One recommendation that crosses all sectors is the need for prolonged moderation of growth in public-sector total compensation” – Don Drummond While people are having trouble paying the bills, government continues to increase the tax burden. At the same time, Ontario is facing credit downgrades and a projected $411.4 billion debt … Continue reading “Long term action required to address public pay”
By MPP Toby Barrett Recently, I introduced legislation to open up debate on public sector compensation. Bill 94 stresses the requirement for meaningful consultation and negotiation among all parties, while moving forward on proposals to: limit public servants’ compensation to economic growth; limit collective agreements to one year; and introduce the concept of a wage … Continue reading “Consultation is key to public sector reform”
By MPP Toby Barrett On May 16th, I introduced my Private Members Bill titled: An Act to address Ontario’s debt through alternatives to public sector layoffs and government program cuts while reducing the fiscal pressure on the people of Ontario who are having trouble paying their bills. This legislation offers options for tackling runaway spending … Continue reading “Let’s find alternatives to layoffs and program cuts”
By MPP Toby Barrett A few weeks ago, my son Brett and I drove down to Lexington for the Opening Day at Keeneland. Kentucky is one state with a deep appreciation for Ontario’s horse racing industry – for example, there is a statue of Northern Dancer at the Kentucky Horse Park. And as we now … Continue reading “Ontario’s risky gamble with horse racing funds”