Pre-Budget Hearing Shows Life is Harder in Ontario
January 15, 2018THUNDER BAY – This morning, the Wynne government record of making life harder and more unaffordable for Northern Ontario families and businesses was on display at a Pre-Budget Hearing in Thunder Bay.
The Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs heard from a variety of presenters, including the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, local municipalities and forestry companies.
“Between skyrocketing hydro rates and ever increasing taxes and fees, life is harder under the Wynne government. Ontario families are working harder, paying more, and getting less,” said Opposition House Leader Jim Wilson.
“In the past these consultations have been nothing but a sham to the government, but it’s important to hear first-hand from Ontarians about the need for change for the better in the province and Northern Ontario.”
The committee heard from a number of forestry companies that are finding it difficult to remain competitive operating in Northern Ontario.
“The Wynne government has treated Northern Ontario as an afterthought, we all remember when they called it ‘no man’s land.’ Decisions impacting Northern industries have been made by politicians in Downtown Toronto who either don’t understand or don’t care about the unique potential of the region,” said Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli.
“Our caucus has made it a priority to get out into Northern communities and listen first-hand to both the challenges and opportunities the region faces.”