Set against the ongoing trade war with the United States, a federal election campaign and continued economic uncertainty, today’s Speech from the Throne set the stage a return to “self-reliance” and a rethink on status quo priorities in the face of continued threats and challenges.
Delivered by Lt. Gov. Edith Dumont, the speech began the new parliamentary session – Premier Ford’s third majority government – and offered a sweeping roadmap for government that will touch nearly every sector of the economy, including mining, housing, manufacturing, transportation infrastructure and health care.
The government called for the immediate removal of internal trade barriers which cost Canada $200 billion every year, adding “… no restrictions, no red tape: just free trade within Canada.” It recommitted to its $46 billion investment in electric vehicles and to unlocking the Ring of Fire. On that, the government will pass legislation allowing proponents that meet high operating, safety and environmental standards to benefit from streamlined permitting and approvals process, and there will be added focus on developing extraction and processing capacity for critical minerals, creating new opportunities for communities in the North.
To deliver on its plan, the government must expand energy production, including adding the first small modular nuclear reactors in the G7 which will be built at the Darlington nuclear site. Building strong trade routes through Canada and being a “leading voice” in the federation for new highways, airports and seaports will also be an important focus for the government, as well as championing new pipelines, “… eastward, northward, westward and southward,” connecting Alberta oil to new refineries and new markets.
Noteworthy investments
- $11 billion in urgent relief to confront economic uncertainty.
- Investing “unprecedented amounts” in new energy production, transmission, and storage to make Ontario a “clean energy superpower.”
- $200 billion for Ontario’s “Plan to Build” towards new and upgraded roads and highways throughout the province.
- Maintaining a commitment of $1.8 billion towards connecting every person in Ontario with a family doctor or primary care team.
- $50 billion towards building and upgrading more than 50 hospitals across the province.
- $6.4 billion towards building and upgrading 58,000 long-term care beds.
History was also made today as Donna Skelly, MPP for Flamborough-Glanbrook, took on her duties as Ontario’s first female Speaker of the House. The Speaker presides over legislative debates and is responsible for maintaining order during the daily Question Period. Ms. Skelly previously served as deputy Speaker.
What’s Next
With a clear mandate and a robust plan, Premier Ford and the Ontario PCs are well-positioned to move forward with the agenda they campaigned on. Today’s Speech from the Throne demonstrates a commitment to growth and prosperity but also to the diplomacy and stakeholder management required to negotiate through these challenging economic times.
Now that the government’s priority areas are established, it’s more important for businesses in Ontario, or those looking to invest in Ontario, to ensure their priorities and policies are prioritized.
When you need to cut through the noise, McMillan Vantage is here to help your organization navigate Queen’s Park and keep your issues at the top of the agenda. To find out more, contact us at info@mcmillanvantage.com.
