Government Won’t Consult on Wind Power
The McGuinty government had a great opportunity last week to reverse its previous approach and allow meaningful public consultations on its wind power policy. Unfortunately, they keeping insisting “Big government knows best.” Using their majority, the McGuinty government voted down a two-part resolution that called for:
- A moratorium on all wind farm projects pending an independent comprehensive study of health and environmental impacts of industrial wind farms and
- Restoring the planning authority governing wind farms to local municipalities.
Democratically elected local Councils and staff are the best judge of what developments should be permitted in their own communities. The McGuinty government must stop trampling on the rights of municipalities and give them the final say over whether or not they host industrial wind farms. Sadly, there are many government MPPs who were essentially ordered not to break ranks or vote according to the wishes of their citizens on the question of wind farms.
It is this failure to listen to the advice and input of citizens and MPPs that caused the McGuinty government to flip-flop on its controversial sex education policy last month. This government’s failure to consult also meant cancellation of a review of the new healthcare bureaucracy, the Local Health Integration Networks (LHINS). It has led to the Harmonized Sales Tax and the dispute with Ontario’s pharmacists.
This government had a great opportunity to develop a plan for wind power that is fair to everyone. But, they blew it!
Clarington is the site of two proposed industrial wind farms, according an April 8th announcement from the McGuinty government on new energy projects. It is my understanding that the two different proponents of these wind projects have not spoken with the Mayor or municipal planning. I would like to thank the local residents who have taken the time to speak with me on this subject.
In addition to the lack of consultation on wind turbines in general, the information provided by the government in announcing 184 new projects can best be described as minimal. What communities need is more details such as: the exact location of wind farms; estimated value of the development; the number of units; setbacks from neighbouring properties; location of power lines and roadways, value of building permits, number of jobs created and more. I will continue to press for information because it is our right to know the size and location of these proposals. I welcome your comments. I may be reached at 905-697-1501 or 1-800-661-2433 and by e-mail at john.otooleco@pc.ola.org.
Children’s Mental Health Week May 2 – 9
Each year, Ontario marks the first full week of May as Children’s Mental Health Week. It’s a time to increase awareness of the signs of child and youth mental health problems. Mental illness affects about a half a million youths and children in Ontario. (That’s roughly one in five.) Disorders may include anxiety, depression, conduct disorders, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and bipolar conditions. Left untreated, mental illness can lead to school failure, family conflicts, drug abuse, violence, and even suicide. I am advised that help is available and treatment works. That’s the underlying theme of many awareness events, including open houses, school yard walks, shopping mall kiosks, media interviews, poster campaigns, video contests, and much more. Further information is available at www.kidsmentalhealth.ca . I want to thank MPP Christine Elliott (Whitby-Oshawa) who initiated an all-party consultation on mental health challenges in Ontario.
Energy Sales and Full-Day Learning Bills Passed
In April, the Ontario Legislature gave final reading to bills that tighten the rules for energy retailers and confirm the government’s full-day kindergarten plans. The kindergarten legislation receiving third reading April 27 included a number of amendments on the roles of teachers and early childhood educators in full-day early learning classrooms. Up to 35,000 four- and five-year-olds in nearly 600 schools will be in the first wave of full-day kindergarten in September 2010. Let me assure you there are still many unanswered questions. The McGuinty government’s long-term promise is to have the entire program operational by 2015-16. That’s two provincial elections away.
On April 23, the Ontario Legislature gave final reading to a bill protecting consumers from hidden costs, excessive cancellation fees and other unfair practices related to retail energy sales. Most of the new rules are expected to come into effect January 1, 2011. Until new regulations are in force, consumers are encouraged to be familiar with the protection from existing rules. Don’t sign anything without answering key questions.
Free Seminars Help Consumers Buying Vehicles
The province is launching seminars across the Greater Toronto Area and in major Ontario centres for consumers buying a vehicle. The free seminars will give practical tips about the right way to buy. They will explain the difference between registered dealers and private sellers as well as indicating what dealers must disclose about a vehicle. Each one-hour seminar will raise awareness of consumer protection measures provided under the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act, 2002. Among the requirements of the Act is the obligation of dealers to tell customers everything they know about the vehicle being purchased. Advertisements must include the all-in price, with no hidden fees. The seminars will be hosted in libraries, community centres, malls and schools. They are offered by the Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council (OMVIC). A list of seminars and locations will be posted online this month at www.buywithconfidence.ca.
Summer Job Alert
Jobs and job-search services are still available through the Summer Jobs Service, the Ontario Public Service, Summer Company, and Summer Jobs for Youth programs. These programs help young workers connect to jobs. Remember that Ontario employers are encouraged to hire students through the $2-per-hour hiring incentive. For further information on summer job opportunities, visit www.gojobs.gov.on.ca .
