Time to roll up our sleeves and deal with issues

By MPP Toby Barrett Now that the election has reached the finish line, it’s vital we don’t lose the ideas generated at the doors, at debates, and at our local fairs. I’m concerned minority leadership may mean continued government inability to understand and meet the needs of rural and small town Ontario. While minority governments … Continue reading “Time to roll up our sleeves and deal with issues”

Ontario’s wheel of tax again keeps on turning

By MPP Toby Barrett WC: 646 – 96 to cut “In the last election I told Ontarians I wouldn’t raise their taxes, and I broke that promise. I did raise their taxes.” (Dalton McGuinty, 2007) As we head into a month of concern, issues and input across the province of Ontario, I remain concerned that … Continue reading “Ontario’s wheel of tax again keeps on turning”

It seems to be about paying the bills and taxes

By MPP Toby Barrett My discussions over the summer with people across Haldimand and Norfolk seem to centre on pocket-book issues – paying the bills, taxes and even concerns about hanging on to one’s home. People feel they cannot afford the additional HST on electricity and home heating fuel, and the debt retirement charge on … Continue reading “It seems to be about paying the bills and taxes”

Let’s improve municipal – provincial relationship

By MPP Toby Barrett Municipal governments have a difficult job to do, balancing demand for services and the tax base. Given the challenges of recent years, local governments have had to make some tough decisions. Of course, budget management is even more difficult when many of the costs are outside of direct local control. Take … Continue reading “Let’s improve municipal – provincial relationship”

Ontario green jobs blowing in the wind?

By MPP Toby Barrett Following recent weeks of wind powered photo-ops and measures to further entrench unaffordable wind and solar power contracts, it’s clear government is refusing to listen. In the face of protests, petitions and at least 80 municipalities demanding a wind energy moratorium – a moratorium we in Opposition have advocated in the … Continue reading “Ontario green jobs blowing in the wind?”

Cut red tape for productivity and prosperity

By MPP Toby Barrett Next to taxes, regulation is the predominant tool used by government to influence people’s behaviour. And while no one will argue the value of regulation with respect to health or safety or our environment, a serious problem exists for Ontario’s economy and prosperity because of overregulation. According to the Canadian Federations … Continue reading “Cut red tape for productivity and prosperity”

Small businesses and farms drive our economy

By MPP Toby Barrett Small businesses and farms form the backbone of our economy. They are the sources of not only jobs and opportunity, but also the innovation and risk-taking that comprise a strong, modern economy. Small businesses and farms must have every possible advantage to succeed and grow. They are our engines of growth, … Continue reading “Small businesses and farms drive our economy”

21st century requires 21st century education

By MPP Toby Barrett As a former teacher and the son and grandson of teachers, I’m convinced of the opportunities created for citizens through education. Regardless of background, every student needs access to skills and knowledge for a fair start in life; to do their best, and to be better prepared for the work world … Continue reading “21st century requires 21st century education”

Everyone deserves quality, reliable health care

By MPP Toby Barrett Of all the services provided by the provincial level of government, health care consistently remains the number one priority for people in Ontario. Every family expects high quality health care to be there when they need it. Health sector spending accounts for about 46 cents of every tax dollar allocated. But, … Continue reading “Everyone deserves quality, reliable health care”

Government transparency, accountability lacking

By MPP Toby Barrett In the past week, Ontario Ombudsman André Marin has called on the McGuinty government to lift the veil of secrecy following his investigations revealing a lack of transparency and accountability. As anyone familiar with the Ombudsman’s Office knows, its role is to ensure government works in the best interests of its … Continue reading “Government transparency, accountability lacking”