Wednesday, October 28, 2026

The House met at 0900.

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

Good morning. Let us pray.

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Prayers.

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Ms. Khanjin moved second reading of the following bill:

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Bill 140, An Act to enact two Acts and to amend various Acts / Projet de loi 140, Loi édictant deux lois et modifiant diverses lois.

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

To the minister.

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Hon. Andrea Khanjin

I’d like to start off by acknowledging that I will share my time with the great Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism; the member for Scarborough–Agincourt; and the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. As I rise today, it brings me great joy to know the amount of people who have contributed to this particular piece of legislation from all walks of life, through all parts of this province. If you read the 118 pages and 23 schedules of this bill, you will see ideas that come from every corner of this province, from the main streets to the industrial parks, the farms to the innovation hubs across this province, the small businesses. What you’ll see is the spirit of hard work and resilience that defines who we are as Canadians and defines the Ontario economy. This work wouldn’t have been possible without the great team that I get to work with every day at the Ministry of Red Tape Reduction. I want to thank my deputy minister, Maud Murray, who is a staunch champion for red tape reduction. She really drives the team, and we have the motivated team to work across the government enterprise to get ideas from every ministry and combine them. She is a great champion for this government to really move the pendulum forward. It’s thanks to her work and the work of her great team that Ontario has been able to be as successful as we are in reducing red tape. I want to acknowledge assistant deputy minister Alex Wood, who has joined us and is very familiar to me, as he has helped me with a lot of different files in the past, including the Ministry of the Environment, and now at red tape reduction. He’s a man who is a great thinker. He always has a great policy solution for any problem and is a really good motivator to drive his team. Next is Morella, the director of our strategic policy and research branch. Morella is excellent and always has updates for any types of decks or technical briefings. She’s always there to ensure we’re moving the KPIs and moving the metrics and demonstrating it visually, as well. So I want to thank her for her work. Michelle, as well, the director of the regulatory modernization branch—I couldn’t do the work without you and our entire team at red tape reduction, from my chief of staff, Evan Holt; Sebastian Bonham-Carter; Emily Dahlgren; Mike Pew; Rolando Ong. Again, this is a team effort approach. I’m really lucky that I am supported by a very strong team, including this entire government. That is the Team Ontario approach. This is something that Premier Ford has instilled in us—working together as a team for one common goal: how to make Ontario the most competitive in the G7. It is a very competitive environment, with the headwinds that we have inherited. Currently, this economic climate makes us think a little bit harder in terms of how we work better and smarter for Ontarians. Every day, Ontarians make tough decisions and they make trade-offs, and government should rise to the challenge and do the same. At its core, what you’ll see in this bill is that it’s all about giving businesses the confidence and predictability they need to invest and create jobs here in Ontario. I know my colleagues share this sentiment, as well. There is no chamber of commerce event, there is no Canadian federation of business event that I haven’t been to this summer, or a grand opening of a business—a dream of a local business owner who has always wanted to have a shopfront. They just want government out of the way. They want a government that supports them. And what we hear across this province is that they want predictability in an unpredictable time. They want certainty in an uncertain time. And they want a government that has their back, a government that stands behind them, pushing them forward to do better. We’ve demonstrated that, not only by our record on reducing red tape reduction, but also the lowering of the small business tax, thanks to the leadership of our small business minister, Nina Tangri, and Premier Ford, acknowledging that small businesses are the majority employers in so many of our communities across the province. We can’t deny the predicament that President Donald Trump has put us in and the tariff situation, so we need to do everything we can to protect workers and build the most competitive economy in the G7. This means we have to make choices. We have to update outdated processes, remove unnecessary duplication that causes lengthy approvals. We need to reduce those lengthy approval timelines that slow progress, delay opportunity and keep a system that forces workers and businesses to wait endlessly. That’s why we are rolling up our sleeves to modernize how government works by eliminating the barriers and red tape that get in the way of productivity and innovation. To put it in perspective, to date, this government has a Team Ontario approach, working with all ministries of this government, with people from all walks of life, from shop floors to school floors. We’ve been able to save Ontarians 1.8 million hours in red tape hours that they would have spent on paperwork. That is something governments can do. We can buy people time. It’s the most valued commodity we have in our society. If people have more time, they’re able to spend more time with family, they’re able to do their extracurricular activities, and, more importantly, they’re able to think and innovate. This is what’s going to drive our economy. This is what’s going to help us get the economy moving in the direction we want, which is being the most competitive in the G7. This bill, if passed, would support our Ontario economy, would support our growth, would transform how we respond to people’s requests when it comes to permits, when it comes to processes that increase infrastructure development and improve our energy systems efficiency. Ontario is already recognized as a leader in reducing regulatory burden and improving government services. You will recall, in 2026, Ontario earned its first-ever A grade, the first in Ontario’s history, from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, for regulatory reform. But how did we get there? Back when Premier Ford formed government in 2018, Ontario, unfortunately, was the regulatory capital of this nation. We had a grade from the Canadian federation of businesses that was an A-. It was deplorable. Small businesses were shackled with red tape. As a result of our work of listening to businesses, listening to folks from all walks of life across this province, we have been able to reduce that number—have an A grade—but also save businesses and industry $1.3 billion in red tape reduction. Speaker, these are meaningful changes that affect the day-to-day business of people, the day-to-day lives, and give them that time back so they can do what they want to do best, whether it’s hire employees, innovate in their business or expand. Through the ongoing action of the cutting-red-tape ministry and our government, we’re making Ontario the best place to invest. We’re opening up the door, rolling out the red carpet for businesses so that they can employ and invest here. It’s about reshoring those jobs. It’s about building our province. This province used to build many things, we used to make many things, and we have to keep doing that. The Building Ontario Faster Act represents ideas from the shop floors to construction sites to our favourite local restaurants, coffee shops and businesses. We heard the same message consistently: When approvals take too long, projects get delayed, investments go elsewhere, and people wait longer for the services they need. We listened, and now we’re taking action, because they can’t afford unnecessary delays. We need a regulatory system that helps get things done while continuing to uphold the safe standards and high standards that Ontarians expect. Speaker, that is why our government launched a comprehensive review of every permit that affects businesses in Ontario. This is led by the team at red tape reduction. The government-wide permit review supports faster starts, lower administrative costs and greater predictability for businesses and investors in key sectors such as mining, transportation, energy, agriculture and infrastructure. In the fall of 2025, the government committed to a full review of all business-facing permits, with the goal to eliminate or transform 35% to 50% of them by the end of 2028. This review is unlike any done in Ontario’s history; in fact, it’s the first. Before we started this review, Ontario did not know, collectively, how many economic permits we held. We are pleased to identify that for the first time ever—we’ve identified 375 business-facing permits; 192 permits have already been reviewed to date, and we’re already exceeding our original target for this year. This is success in the making. This is a successful part of tracking to ensure that we are moving as fast as businesses need us to move. We are moving to create those opportunities as fast as the people ready to seize those opportunities. We’re taking a practical approach to permits. Ontario is removing unnecessary permit requirements that are making projects stagnant and moving slower. We’re looking at low-risk activities—that will look at standard practices across the board and that don’t require stronger oversight and are low-impact. We’re finding in this review things that have been outdated, that have never been—say, they were permits we had on the books that actually have never had anyone apply for them, so why are they there? There’s outdated language, things that are ambiguous and don’t give businesses the certainty that they need and they have asked for. There are many opportunities to improve service delivery. That is what every Ontarian expects of their government. They want a government that eliminates overlap, reduces processing times, while maintaining the standards that people expect. Across government, processes remain that need to be eliminated, that are too complex, duplicative or outdated. This is why we are here today, speaking about a bill that is going to transform how we review permits and how we move the economy forward. Once the permit transformation is complete and fully implemented, the permit process timeline will, in this bill, reduce the time by 220,000 days. Let me say that again, Speaker: There are about 220,000 days that this bill is actually going to shave off, in terms of time for individuals who interact with those business-facing permits. This is, again, government moving fast so that we can move as fast as the people ready to seize these great opportunities in our province. It’s more than a number; it’s a competitive advantage that helps Ontario attract investment, build critical infrastructure sooner, and lower unnecessary costs. It represents months and years of waiting, for businesses, municipalities, infrastructure builders and job creators. For businesses, this means owners would have more time to focus on what matters most to them and less time navigating red tape. When businesses are waiting for government decisions, it means they can’t move forward with their plans, and this often means higher costs and wasted time. Faster decisions from government create stability and certainty, which allows businesses to make faster decisions about expansions, investments and job creation. Speaker, a key component of the bill focuses on permitting and approvals, but it also contains several key initiatives to build a more efficient regulatory environment to ensure the province is resilient and ready for economic opportunities. This is how we protect Ontario. Amid rising global uncertainty fuelled by unprecedented threats to our economy and to our sovereignty, it has never been more important to cut red tape, to remain competitive, and to ensure that we keep pace.

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Hon. Andrea Khanjin

This legislation proposes changes across a number of sectors, all united by one common objective: helping Ontario move faster while maintaining appropriate protections. This bill includes measures to transform archaeological approvals—led by the great Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism—modernize environmental oversight and service delivery, and build a strong electricity distribution system. Taken together, these proposals and proposed regulatory changes across a wide range of government services and sectors will boost our provincial economy. They will create a stable and predictable business climate, attract investment and ensure businesses can secure approvals quickly and easily. They will help ministries focus resources on the approvals that matter most while reducing administrative burden for applicants. In practical terms, this means fewer delays that were standing in the way, greater predictability—that was standing in the way—and better outcomes for Ontarians. One of the greatest challenges faced throughout the province today is the need to build. We need a regulatory framework that supports those actions. When we build, it creates jobs, it creates ripple effects in our community, and it creates hope for those individuals who know that they have a job site to wake up to the next day. They’re able to feed their families, and they’re able to do the things that they enjoy. They’re able to contribute to the economy. They’re able to make their mortgage payment. And they’re able to do the things that they always dreamt about. Far too often, we had governments that weren’t responsive to people’s dreams, their hopes, and increasing those opportunities in the province. Those days are gone, since Premier Ford was elected. Instead, every moment, in every part of this province, when we go, we’re doing what we can to get government out of the way so that we’re giving businesses that climate to create more opportunity. We’re keeping the taxes low so we create that economic place where investors can come and are able to have a home-team advantage, being from Ontario. Instead of moving their business somewhere else, they can actually expand here in Ontario. Whether it’s the Minister of Economic Development, who travels the globe, bringing more of those investments—I will tell you, since Premier Ford got elected in 2018, this is a Premier who has been able to secure $235 billion in investment into this province. But you can’t secure those investments if we have too much red tape. Now, more than ever, we’re challenging every individual in this province and all of our government, as a team approach, to drive more efficiency, reduce red tape and create that predictability so, again, not only can we reshore our Canadian businesses, but we can attract businesses here—but for the ones that are already here, we’re getting out of the way so they can do what they do best, which is expand. Speaker, on that note, what you’ll see in this proposed legislation is improving efficiency and predictability when it comes to Ontario’s heritage framework, which my colleague the Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism will speak on shortly. He’s very excited to speak to this bill. You’ll also see addressing of road safety concerns and transportation needs in northern Ontario by accelerating critical infrastructure projects, including cutting construction timelines for Highway 69; that is going to shave five years off that project. If you look at a map of this project, it really shows you how this government is continuing to unite, connect communities across this province and create those economic opportunities. For far too long, people going from Sudbury, from Parry Sound or even from Barrie had to always drive around to get to where they need to get to. If we’re going to be building, again, more infrastructure, if we’re going to be developing our critical minerals, we need direct roads that unite families and connect workers to job sites. And this is exactly what Highway 69 is going to do, thanks to the hard work of our Minister of Transportation. He is truly getting it done. Part of building highways to unite families and to get workers to sites—we also need to ensure we have labour mobility in this province. Thanks to the great work of our Minister of Health and Deputy Premier, we are now reducing those barriers so that health care workers can move from Saskatchewan and can work here in Ontario in as little as two business days. This is real action in real time, again allowing people to work right away. Certainly, we know that when we talk about health care, this government is committed to continuously breaking the status quo and ensuring that we put patients above paperwork. This labour mobility action in the bill is no different. We want to be able to say, “If you want to come to Ontario because it’s a great place to live, because we’re a bountiful province, and if you are in the health care sector, please, come work in Ontario, and we’ll recognize your credentials”—real-time action. Certainly, we welcome any individuals to come and choose Ontario; it’s a great place to live, work and raise their families. For far too long, when you did want to come to this province, you were mired in paperwork and red tape. Of course, this is what this is eliminating. I will note the responsibility that is also in this bill, which is our responsibility to work with Indigenous partners. I will say that our commitment to responsible oversight and working with the crown and their duty to consult remains in place throughout this particular piece of legislation, because this is what responsible development and respect for rights means. It means businesses don’t have to navigate and have to comply with complex requirements, but it also means we are being respectful of our commitments as a province. Speaker, taxpayers should not have to bear the costs of inefficient government. And this is what this bill responds to. Before I pass it on to my great colleague to talk about his changes, I will also add that, if passed, the Building Ontario Faster Act will help reduce timelines and speed up approvals for places that are growing across our province, from the agricultural sector to growing businesses. I’ve heard from many farmers in my community that what they want to do is create food security in this province, but for far too long, there were permits and regulations getting in the way. Working with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture and many across this province, we’ve had first-hand ideas from them—not only in this bill, previous bills, but in additional bills to come. Speaker, it shows you that from every walk of this province, we are getting ideas to protect the people of Ontario, and they know that we have their backs. This bill honours that spirit by ensuring that government becomes not a barrier to success but a partner in prosperity. Policy should reflect people’s lives, not complicate them. And that is what the Building Ontario Faster Act does. People deserve a government that comes to them—and that is what we are doing. We are building a province where government meets people where they’re at, not where it’s convenient for government. Gone are the days when we inherited lots of red tape; instead, we are cutting that red tape and continuing to make Ontario the most competitive in the G7. I will now pass it on to my colleague the great Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism to talk about the great elements in this bill that he has been working very hard on for a number of months—consulting across this province; working with great partners, including our Indigenous partners—to make a lot of projects a reality and much-needed changes. Interjections.

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The Acting Speaker (MPP Andrea Hazell)

I recognize the Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism.

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Hon. Graham McGregor

I don’t think we gave the Minister of Red Tape Reduction enough applause after her speech. It’s absolutely groundbreaking work that she’s doing to set our economy on the right track. Interjections.

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Hon. Graham McGregor

I’m pleased to speak today to the Building Ontario Faster Act, 2026. I’ll be speaking about the heritage framework transformation—as well as the parliamentary assistant to the ministry, the member for Scarborough–Agincourt. The amendments before the House today represent an important milestone in Ontario’s Heritage Framework Transformation initiative, a multi-year initiative intended to improve heritage policies, digital tools and service delivery across the province. The proposed amendments before us today intend to make the archaeology process faster and easier to navigate, while continuing to protect Ontario’s archaeological heritage for future generations. Speaker, last week, myself and the member for Scarborough–Agincourt stood alongside Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige; Riley Brockington, president of AMO; Scott Andison, CEO of the Ontario Home Builders’ Association; and Paul Racher, managing principal at Archaeological Research Associates Ltd., one of the largest archaeology firms in Ontario, to announce this next phase of Ontario’s heritage framework transformation. What struck me was the broad agreement between everyone about the important role that Ontario’s archaeology system plays. We heard that archaeological heritage must be protected. However, at the same time, we heard that the system could be more predictable and easier to navigate for Indigenous communities, municipalities, homeowners, archaeologists and sector partners. And those conversations reinforce the importance of the legislation that’s before us today. It’s important to set the context for this work. Ontario’s archaeology framework has not undergone a significant review in 15 years, and during that time, our province has changed dramatically. Communities across the province are growing. Demand for homes, transit and other critical infrastructure continues to increase. And yet, much of the process supporting archaeological assessments today was developed for a very different environment. Today, archaeological assessments play an important role in supporting responsible planning and development across Ontario. However, the current four-stage archaeological assessment process can take up to 64 months to complete for complex projects. Lower-risk projects may be required to navigate requirements that were not designed with today’s pressures in mind. Stakeholders have told us that these timelines can create uncertainty while increasing costs and delays for projects that families and communities rely on. The volume of archaeological assessments has also grown significantly. Since 2020 alone, my ministry has seen a 30% increase in archaeological assessments. In 2025, we received approximately 3,800 archaeological assessment reports for review. As part of our government’s plan to protect Ontario by cutting red tape, attracting investment and building the most competitive economy in the G7, we are taking action to help communities keep pace with that growth. And Ontario needs the housing, infrastructure and economic development to support that. The proposed amendments before the House today build on the important progress that we’ve already made through the Heritage Framework Transformation initiative. Over the past few years, my ministry has worked to improve service delivery, address long-standing operational challenges and work collaboratively with Indigenous communities, municipalities, archaeologists and sector partners. Through that work, we heard several recurring themes: (1) reduce unnecessary complexity; (2) improve clarity regarding requirements; and (3) make processes easier to navigate. I’m proud to say that because of this work, we eliminated the archaeological review backlog, which once exceeded 3,000 reports, while 80% of reports are now being entered into the register within 10 business days. Ontario’s archaeology framework plays an important role in preserving archaeological sites and supporting responsible project planning. Archaeological assessments help identify and protect important archaeological resources before development proceeds. What we are proposing is a system that protects archaeological resources while working more effectively for the people who rely on it. We heard from municipalities and others about the important role archaeological assessments play in planning and development across Ontario. We also heard that clear, predictable processes are important for communities, project proponents and others who rely on the framework. These processes will support informed decision-making and help ensure that archaeological heritage is appropriately considered as communities grow. As archaeology activity has increased, partners in the process have identified opportunities to improve how the framework operates. One theme that emerged is that existing requirements can be complex to navigate. In some cases, projects with very different levels of archaeological risk can be subject to similar requirements. As a result, time and resources are not always focused where they can provide the greatest benefit. Through the Heritage Framework Transformation initiative, my ministry has taken steps to address operational challenges. Those efforts have demonstrated the value of reviewing existing processes and identifying opportunities for improvement. The proposed amendments before the House are intended to create a framework that is better aligned with current and future needs, while continuing to preserve archaeological sites and cultural heritage resources. The proposed amendments have been informed by extensive consultation and engagement undertaken across Ontario. Since the launch of the Heritage Framework Transformation initiative in 2024, my ministry has engaged with Indigenous communities, municipalities, archaeologists, development proponents and many other sector representatives. Consultation and engagement with Indigenous communities have been an integral component of this work. To date, this has included more than 100 consultation meetings and other engagement discussions with 68 First Nations communities and organizations across Ontario. These discussions have provided important perspectives on processes, consultation approaches and the protection of archaeological heritage. We’ve also heard directly from municipalities, archaeologists, planning professionals, home builders, and other sector partners. While discussions were approached from different perspectives, there was significant agreement on several issues. What we heard repeatedly was that people are not asking for less protection of archaeological resources; they are asking for greater clarity. They’re asking for processes that are easier to understand and navigate. They are asking for timelines that are more predictable. They are asking for a framework that focuses oversight, expertise and resources where archaeological risk is greatest. Municipalities emphasized the importance of certainty when planning infrastructure projects and community growth. Archaeologists identified opportunities to reduce administrative burden while maintaining professional standards and conservation outcomes. Home builders spoke about the need for a process that is more efficient and predictable. And Indigenous communities emphasized the importance of meaningful engagement and protecting archaeology, sacred sites and culturally significant places. I’m proud to say we listened to these concerns, and they are clearly reflected in the amendments before the House today. Speaker, I would now like to turn to the changes proposed though this legislation. The proposed legislation focuses on three key areas. First, it would establish a new risk-based framework for archaeological activities, which will reduce approval timelines by up to 80%. It’s pretty damn good, Madam Speaker. Second, it would support advanced digital services and tools to improve service delivery and efficiency. And third, it would strengthen qualifications and introduce new compliance and accountability measures to improve sector oversight. I want to spend a bit of time on this last pillar. These changes would establish a new graduated compliance and enforcement framework that takes a tough-on-fraud approach to protecting the integrity of Ontario’s archaeology system. The proposed framework would introduce stronger oversight tools, including proactive risk-based inspections, administrative monetary penalties, compliance orders, enhanced guidance and training, and maximum fines of up to $3 million for serious violations. By focusing compliance efforts where risks are highest, we can better protect archaeological resources and uphold professional standards. Ultimately, stronger compliance will lead to streamlined approvals, strengthen trust with our Indigenous partners, and improve public confidence throughout the sector. Speaker, I have explained why these changes are needed, the feedback that helped inform them and the progress that has already been made through the Heritage Framework Transformation initiative. The proposed changes before the House build on years of engagement, collaboration and work already under way. We will be building a system that is tougher, faster and fairer—tougher, because we will hold bad actors accountable. We’ll make sure that we get compliance into a much better state, and, frankly, when people are malicious in their intent—to mess with the archaeological resources in Ontario or to subvert the rights of First Nations communities to their own cultural resources and identity—we will lay the hammer on them. This legislation gives us the ability to do exactly that with increased fines, administrative monetary penalties, and a compliance framework much stronger than the one that we have currently. So it’s going to be a tougher system; it’s going to be faster, because we’re reducing approval timelines by up to 80%; it will be fairer, because it will provide certainty, predictability and transparency for everyone who interacts with the system, be they First Nations communities, municipalities, archaeologists, landowners and proponents. I hope that the House supports this bill and the amendments I’ve spoken about. I know my parliamentary assistant from Scarborough–Agincourt will speak further to the proposed amendments before the House and how they are intended to improve Ontario’s archaeology framework.

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The Acting Speaker (MPP Andrea Hazell)

I recognize the member for Scarborough–Agincourt.

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Mr. Aris Babikian

I am pleased to continue speaking about the proposed amendments under the Building Ontario Faster Act, 2026. As the minister has outlined, Ontario’s archaeology framework plays an important role in preserving archaeological heritage while supporting responsible development. I would now like to speak about the proposed amendments before the House and the outcomes they are intended to achieve. Pillar one: risk-based archaeological activities. Specifically, the bill proposes a new approach that, if passed, would apply different requirements based on the level of archaeological risk involved. For instance, for some lower-risk activities, the proposed amendments would allow exemptions from archaeological assessment requirements. For certain activities, the legislation would introduce a permit-by-rule approach. This would allow proponents to proceed once specified requirements have been met. For higher-risk activities, such as those involving known archaeological sites, ministry oversight and authorization requirements would apply. This approach is intended to focus oversight where it is most needed, while creating a clearer pathway for lower-risk activities. This is expected to deliver meaningful results. If passed, the proposed framework is expected to reduce archaeology approval timelines by up to 80%. For many projects, approval timelines could be reduced from approximately 29 months to between four and six months. For more complex projects, timelines that can currently extend to more than five years could be reduced to between 12 and 18 months. These changes would help support the timely delivery of homes, infrastructure and other community-building projects across Ontario. For municipalities, greater certainty means infrastructure projects can move forward with more predictable timelines. For homeowners, it can mean simpler pathways for lower-risk projects. For archaeologists, it can mean spending less time navigating administrative requirements and more time applying their expertise where it is most valuable. For Indigenous communities, it can mean earlier engagement opportunities and more transparency throughout the process. And for Ontario, it means a framework that is better positioned to support both preservation and growth. Pillar two: qualifications, compliance and accountability. The second area of reform relates to qualifications, compliance and accountability. The proposed legislation would replace the current archaeological licensing framework with a qualified-person framework. It would provide authority to establish qualifications and other requirements through regulation for individuals undertaking archaeological work. The legislation would also establish a compliance and enforcement framework. This would provide additional tools to support compliance and accountability across the sector. Taken together, these changes are intended to support a framework that maintains professional standards while providing greater flexibility, increasing sector capacity and strengthening oversight. Pillar three: digital services and tools. The third area of reform involves digital services and information management. The proposed legislation would support the continued modernization of archaeology-related services and tools. This work includes improvements to archaeology-related information and digital service delivery. These improvements are intended to make information easier to access, improve transparency and support more efficient service delivery. They are also intended to help users better understand requirements and navigate the archaeology process. Together, these proposed changes are intended to create a more transparent and responsive archaeology framework. Speaker, while the proposed amendments address processes and service delivery, archaeology is ultimately about the protection of resources that hold deep cultural significance. It is about more than processes and approvals; it is about understanding, protecting and preserving evidence of the people who lived on these lands before us. We heard that for many Indigenous communities and others, archaeological sites are not simply places of historical interest. They can include sacred sites and other places that hold enduring cultural significance. Archaeological heritage in Ontario is deeply connected to the histories, cultures and traditions of Indigenous communities and forms an important part of how those histories are understood from generation to generation. Throughout consultation and engagement on the HFT initiative, Indigenous communities have consistently emphasized the importance of protecting ancestors’ sacred sites and culturally significant spaces and places. They have also highlighted the importance of ongoing dialogue as archaeology policies and processes continue to evolve. These perspectives have informed the ministry’s work throughout this initiative. They have helped shape discussions about archaeology processes, consultation approaches and opportunities to support earlier and more consistent involvement from Indigenous communities. While legislative changes are an important milestone, they represent only one part of a broader effort that will continue over time. That is why we are continuing to invest in long-term engagement and relationship-building initiatives. This includes ongoing engagement opportunities and continued consultations. It also includes the establishment of relationship tables, which are intended to provide a forum for ongoing dialogue and advice as future policy, operational and digital improvements are considered. Should the amendments be passed, and as implementation work progresses, we will continue engaging with Indigenous communities, municipalities, heritage sector proponents and others. Their perspectives and expertise remain an important part of this work. Continued dialogue will help inform implementation planning and future improvements to Ontario’s archaeology framework. Implementation and looking ahead: There is important work ahead to support implementation across the province. If passed, the proposed framework changes will be implemented in phases. This approach will help support an orderly transition to the new framework and provide time for operational policy and regulatory work to proceed. If passed, the proposed amendments would allow the ministry to undertake the additional work necessary to support implementation. This includes the development of regulations, operational policies, guidance materials and supporting tools. It also includes ongoing work to support awareness, education and implementation planning across the sector. The work before us today is part of a broader transformation initiative, and successful implementation will require ongoing dialogue, collaboration and careful planning. It will also require continued attention to protecting archaeological heritage while improving how the framework operates in practice. Speaker, this legislation is ultimately about creating an archaeology framework for Ontario today and into the future—a framework that protects archaeological resources; a framework that recognizes the importance of Indigenous perspectives and participation; a framework that leverages the capabilities of digital tools and services of today; a framework that provides greater transparency and accountability; and a framework that supports the timely delivery of housing, infrastructure and economic development projects that communities rely on. The objective is not simply to do things faster; the objective is to do them better, to focus effort where it matters most, to create clearer expectations, and to build a system that Ontarians can have confidence in for years to come. The amendments before the House today represent the next step in Ontario’s Heritage Framework Transformation initiative. The proposed changes are intended to make the archaeology process faster and easier to navigate. They support the delivery of homes, infrastructure and other community-building projects across Ontario. They continue to recognize the importance of preserving archaeological sites and cultural heritage resources. And they recognize the importance of ongoing engagement with Indigenous communities and others who have an interest in how archaeological heritage is protected and preserved. Ontario’s archaeology framework plays an important role in supporting responsible planning and heritage protection. The proposed changes seek to ensure that the framework remains effective, responsive and capable of meeting future needs—a framework that protects our past while supporting Ontario’s future. I ask that all members of this House support the Building Ontario Faster Act, 2026, at second reading.

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The Acting Speaker (MPP Andrea Hazell)

I recognize the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.

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Hon. Todd J. McCarthy

I want to thank the member for Scarborough–Agincourt for his thoughtful remarks this morning. It is my pleasure now to join this debate on Bill 140, the Building Ontario Faster Act, 2026. This important legislation, introduced yesterday by my colleague the Minister of Red Tape Reduction, is about making sure that our province can build what our economy depends upon and build it on our own terms. For my ministry, that means taking on one of the most urgent challenges facing this province, and that’s how we manage our waste. This legislation would make it easier to build new landfill capacity here in Ontario and recognize energy from waste as a core part of our waste management system. We have been very clear that this work could not be more urgent. As the last few years have demonstrated, we cannot rely on others to keep Ontario’s economy moving. There is no time to delay. Today, about 40% of Ontario’s commercial waste is shipped to landfills in Michigan and New York. Meanwhile, here at home, we have less than 10 years of landfill capacity remaining. In the last 20 years, only one new large landfill has been approved in this province. As our own capacity runs out, Ontario cannot afford to risk relying on systems that we do not control, and we cannot risk relying on the whims of a foreign leader. That’s why we have proposed changes to help reduce pressures on our waste disposal capacity here in Ontario and to reduce our reliance on landfill sites in the United States. Last Friday, the fallout from the risks became clear. President Trump announced a new 50% tariff on some Canadian waste, and politicians from the state of Michigan lined up to celebrate it. This new tariff follows consistent threats in recent years from the governor of Michigan to hike tipping fees for Canadian waste, by 1,200% or more. For the industries, businesses and Canadian families that depend on those landfills, this is a grave concern. If a business cannot manage its waste, that business cannot operate. It is that simple. We cannot leave something this important in the hands of a US administration that grows less reliable each and every day. From the time an application is filed, landfills can take six or more years to get approved, meaning that applications for new landfill capacity are needed now to address our diminishing capacity down the road. While we’re doing everything we can to divert organics waste from landfill and send other materials to be recycled, more must be done. The time to act is now. That is why we are proposing legislative and regulatory amendments that would make it easier to establish new large landfill sites throughout the province, helping to increase domestic waste disposal capacity and reducing reliance on disposal facilities in the United States. The proposed change would give landfill proponents more certainty to start planning for new landfills that the province will need in the future. Let me assure you, Speaker, that as new large landfill sites are considered, the public and municipalities will continue to be consulted as part of the strict environmental oversight applied to these sites. That will not change. Ontario will also consult on regulatory changes to improve diversion and streamline requirements for business and institutional recycling, as well as clarify policies for organic diversion to better support businesses and municipalities. Finally, Ontario will review the Strategy for a Waste-Free Ontario to ensure that we have identified the right initiatives to drive diversion and preserve landfill capacity over the long term. Speaker, as part of our comprehensive plan to manage Ontario’s waste, we have proposed another change in the Building Ontario Faster Act, and that is to build the infrastructure our province needs. Ontario has a one-window approval process for renewable energy facilities, to help projects receive approval more efficiently. It is estimated that the residual municipal waste that these facilities produce energy from contains 45% to 55% biogenic content, which is a renewable resource. However, unlike other Canadian jurisdictions, there is currently limited recognition of the biogenic components of municipal waste as a renewable energy source in Ontario. As a result, new energy-from-waste incineration facilities with integrated energy recovery currently must go through a two-step approvals process, including an environmental assessment and a separate environmental compliance approval. Uncertainty regarding how long these processes take to complete creates barriers for investment in these facilities. With the current economic uncertainty created by tariffs and other measures enacted by the United States, we need to do everything in our power to provide certainty when and where we can. That’s why our Ontario government is proposing legislative changes that, if approved by this House, would recognize energy-from-waste facilities as a core part of Ontario’s waste management approach. This approach would align our province with other jurisdictions that properly recognize the renewable content of municipal waste. This includes British Columbia, Alberta, the federal government, and the European Union. This is important because at facilities like the Durham York Energy Centre in my own community, waste that cannot be recycled is being turned into enough electricity to power more than 10,000 homes. Our government wants to build on that success. But under the current rules, facilities like these need two separate approvals to get up and running, and the uncertainty that creates can hold back critical investments in our economy. With additional regulatory amendments, the proposed changes would allow eligible new energy-from-waste incinerator facilities to apply through a one-window approvals process while still meeting the strong standards that protect our shared environment. By providing access to the clearer, more predictable renewable energy approvals process, these changes would help encourage investment in waste diversion and alternative waste disposal while reducing pressure on Ontario’s landfill capacity and, of course, reducing our reliance on US landfills. One of our best tools for waste diversion is Ontario’s Blue Box Program. As you know, on January 1 of this year, producers became fully responsible for the Blue Box Program province-wide, representing a significant shift in how recycling is managed across the province. Under this approach, producers, including the companies that supply packaging, paper products and packaging-like materials to consumers are responsible for funding and operating the collection and recycling system. By transferring responsibility from municipalities to producers, Ontario is creating a more accountable system that places the cost of recycling on those who generate the packaging, rather than on local taxpayers. The producer responsibility model also encourages innovation and supports Ontario’s transition to a circular economy. Because producers are responsible for managing their materials at end of life, they have a strong incentive to reduce excess packaging, improve recyclability, and invest in more sustainable product design. Blue box services are currently funded and delivered by the private sector, with operational and financial decisions made by producer responsibility organizations—or PROs—and service providers. Producers of paper, packaging, and single-use items have expressed their dissatisfaction about a lack of transparency from producer responsibility organizations. Producers have asked for more insight into what factors are driving cost increases. And they have expressed their concerns about minimal advance notice of cost increases and challenges leveraging the competitive market between PROs due to a lack of transparency over fees paid to collect and process recyclable material. PROs are responsible for system design and delivery but have struggled to generate meaningful savings for producers. PROs have also pointed out that there are opportunities to improve regulations to allow for operational efficiencies, which could promote cost savings. Speaker, we have listened carefully to the concerns of both producers and PROs. That is why we are proposing legislative amendments that would allow government to regulate the contracts, fees and costs paid by producers within the blue box system. These changes, if passed, would mean producers would have more predictable fees, could plan better for their costs, and would have greater transparency into what is driving system expenses. Producers would have confidence that their fees are subject to consistent rules about how fees are set and how increases are charged. PROs would also have greater structure in how they work together, with rules requiring more inclusive and transparent co-operation, and fair resolution of disputes. To make sure we get the best possible outcome for everyone involved, Ontario will also consult on changes to regulated service requirements, including what materials are collected and how they are collected, to maximize the efficiency of the blue box system. While much of the focus of my remarks has been on our comprehensive plan to address Ontario’s waste, I’d like to take a few moments to speak to some other items that we have put forward with this proposed legislation. That starts with our practical approach to how environmentally significant decisions are made. Ontario’s approach to public engagement on environmental proposals is unique in Canada. It includes several procedural mechanisms, many very rarely used, that are vastly different than those used elsewhere. The fact is, many of the processes we rely on have been largely unchanged since the 1990s, and, over time, these requirements have become duplicative with other measures, such as the Ontario Regulatory Registry. By proposing updates to Ontario’s Environmental Bill of Rights, we are aligning with best practices across domestic and international jurisdictions, while retaining critical environmental protections and processes, including public consultation through the Environmental Registry, meaningful input on environmentally significant decisions, and the ability to report violations of Ontario’s environmental laws. This would create predictable conditions for businesses and ensure that our ministry’s experts can spend more time and resources on delivering front-line services and protecting our air, land and water. We are also proposing regulatory changes to enable the use of new drone technology in the application of federally approved pesticides. This change would bring our rules in line with Health Canada and with six other Canadian provinces, to help Ontario farmers in this period of global uncertainty and unwarranted tariffs, while reducing pesticide usage. Speaker, Ontario’s agriculture sector generates billions of dollars in economic activity while supporting thousands of jobs in rural and urban communities alike. Ontario is home to one of Canada’s largest and most diverse agricultural industries, producing everything from grains and livestock to fruits, vegetables and greenhouse crops, as well as the raw materials that support food processing, transportation, retail and export industries across the province. The numbers back this up. The agri-food sector in Ontario contributes almost $53 billion to our GDP, supporting one in nine jobs in our province. Through no fault of their own, Ontario farmers face economic uncertainty due to the unreasonable tariffs on Canadian agricultural goods imposed by the United States. We want to make sensible changes that will support our farmers in these challenging times—changes that reflect the new realities of modern farming, which would allow our farmers to embrace new technologies.

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Hon. Todd J. McCarthy

Ontario’s current pesticides licensing and training frameworks address the aerial application of pesticides by plane or helicopter, but not specifically with respect to drones. While agricultural spray drones can reduce overall costs for agriculture, just as importantly, they can also significantly reduce pesticide use, because they apply products with much greater precision. That’s good for our environment. Under our proposal, then, a drone-specific pesticide application licence and training process would allow qualified operators to apply pesticides via drones. Tasks can be completed faster, more accurately, and with fewer resources. Drones are helping organizations across sectors modernize operations, increase competitiveness, and achieve better results at a lower overall cost. This proposed change would help businesses and farmers take advantage of these benefits. Strengthening accountability and transparency in the blue box system, as I indicated, is a key feature of the proposals in this bill. Overall, then, this bill is designed to deliver practical results for the people of this province. Speaker, we cannot control what happens in Washington, but we can control the decisions we make here in Ontario. There are numerous schedules to this bill that can and will, if passed, achieve important results, encourage resilience, bring about a Protect Ontario model that we need in these challenging times. As I said, while we can’t control the whims of the current President of the United States, we can control the decisions we make right here in Ontario. When it comes to protecting Ontario’s workers, our economy, our shared environment, our government is committed to delivering results. With the Building Ontario Faster Act, 2026, we are speeding up the permits and we’re speeding up the approvals that get projects off the ground. When it comes to increasing our landfill capacity, let me make this perfectly clear: It will be willing host communities that decide if, when and where landfills go, in conjunction with proponents. My role as Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks is to oversee strong environmental oversight when that choice is made by those municipalities. We’ll create predictable conditions we need to attract investment and well-paying jobs. That’s how we have and will have the most competitive and resilient economy in the G7. That’s how we protect Ontario.

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The Acting Speaker (MPP Andrea Hazell)

Question?

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MPP Jamie West

Thank you to my colleagues for the lead debate on this. This is a very large bill; there are 263 pages, and it has 23 schedules. Schedule 4 is the one that touches me the most because of Highway 69 and the number of people who have died in my community driving on that road. I know that the Minister of Transportation has been supportive; I know that the minister of Parry Sound—the majority of that highway is in his riding—is very supportive of this, but this part of Highway 69 is buried in with conversations about bees and farm implements and disability savings plans. I wonder if the minister would agree to just pull out schedule 4—Highway 69—so we can pass it as quickly as possible, get shovels in the ground as early as tomorrow.

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Hon. Andrea Khanjin

It’s typical opposition: They just don’t want to get things done. They want to start pulling schedules already. We want to build up Ontario. Part of that is our highway infrastructure. Part of it is a transformational permit reform. What I hear from the member is that he doesn’t want to build Ontario. What I hear from the member is—we have a proposal before the Legislature that shaves five years off a highway for his own residents, in addition to getting the permits approved. This is a whole-of-government bill; you can’t just start pulling sections from it. I encourage you to support the entirety of the bill, support the Ontario economy. And let’s get moving to get Ontarians connected, projects built, Ontarians employed and moving the economy to the most competitive in the G7.

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The Acting Speaker (MPP Andrea Hazell)

Question?

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Mr. Ted Hsu

I’m always interested in following technology, and I was interested in the remarks by the Minister of the Environment about waste-to-energy conversion. So it was really interesting, but I’m just wondering what he means by that. For example, has he been talking to the people who work on plasma gasification?

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Hon. Todd J. McCarthy

We always consult widely at the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. What I can say is, I know in my own community how the people have embraced energy from waste. The Durham York Energy Centre is a great success story. It stands alongside, on the other end of the GTHA, in Brampton, the Emerald energy centre. The operations of that facility have been expanded in Brampton. Again, this is new technology that is important because we can produce both electricity and heat from waste. Europe and Great Britain have long embraced this technology with great success because they don’t have the landfill capacity that we need to build. So when it comes to addressing all of the challenges of waste management, we must have a multi-dimensional approach—increase landfill capacity, energy from waste, and diversion.

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The Acting Speaker (MPP Andrea Hazell)

Question?

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Mr. Joseph Racinsky

My question is to the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, also on the topic of technology. I’m really, really pleased to see limited drone use being allowed now for agriculture. I want to give a shout-out to a constituent of mine, Gord Thompson, who has delivered multiple handwritten letters on this topic to my office. They’re really, really pleased to see this moving forward. We know the concerns of soil compaction—that this will allow to be limited. Can the minister just explain a bit more about the important environmental safeguards that still surround this usage?

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Hon. Todd J. McCarthy

I thank the member for that thoughtful question. We are proposing regulatory changes to enable the use of the new drone technology in the application of federally approved pesticides. This simply brings us in line with Health Canada and six other Canadian provinces. This is to help farmers in this period of global economic uncertainty and unwarranted tariffs, while reducing pesticide usage. Speaker, Ontario’s agriculture sector generates billions of dollars in economic activity. As the Premier often has said, we don’t create jobs; we create the conditions for jobs to be maintained and created. That is very important in the agricultural sector, as one in nine of the jobs in our province are due directly or indirectly to the agricultural sector. This is about creating the conditions for success in a balanced way.

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The Acting Speaker (MPP Andrea Hazell)

Question?

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Ms. Sandy Shaw

I want to bring the GFL Stoney Creek dump to the minister’s attention. MPP Khanjin will be familiar with this because I’ve written to her several times about this, and it might be something that the new MPP for Hamilton East–Stoney Creek should be paying attention to. In 2019, the GFL dump that was supposed to have been at capacity was given the ability to expand. Since that time, residents have been dealing with a stink that—no one can imagine how pungent it is and how toxic it has been. In fact, they kept calling it the “summers of stink” in Stoney Creek. GFL was identified as a repeat offender by the Auditor General. There was a total number of 4,500 complaints from residents; 130 lawsuits have been filed—including the city of Hamilton, who wanted intervenor status when GFL was fighting those, finally, penalties. From 2019 to 2026, the government did not help the residents of Hamilton East–Stoney Creek—

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The Acting Speaker (MPP Andrea Hazell)

Response?

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Hon. Todd J. McCarthy

I appreciate the question from the member. This is not about partisanship or politics. We take the concerns of her community very, very seriously. We’re all in this together. We depend on protecting our air, land and water together. That’s why we continue to ensure GFL complies with regulatory requirements and makes further improvements to reduce impacts on the surrounding community. My ministry has issued two provincial officer’s orders, two environmental penalties totalling over $375,000, and charged and convicted GFL under the Environmental Protection Act, resulting in fines of $775,000. We’ve also issued environmental compliance approvals for a new, fully enclosed leachate treatment plant. Once operational, the facility will reduce leachate strength prior to discharge into the pond, and that is anticipated to improve odour management.

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The Acting Speaker (MPP Andrea Hazell)

Question?

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Ms. Mary-Margaret McMahon

It was music to my ears to hear the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks say quite strongly how this government is doing everything they can to get organics out of landfill sites. My question to the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks is, how soon will you pass my private member’s bill on phasing out organics from landfill sites?

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Hon. Todd J. McCarthy

I always appreciate the excellent member’s contributions to the debates in this House, and her suggestions. There is no monopoly on a good idea or a good policy plan. Our plan is multi-dimensional when in comes to a made-in-Ontario solution to waste management. We have no choice but to expand landfill capacity, because we are going to run out in 10 years. We have no choice but to embrace the energy-from-waste technology that can and will be transformational. And we have to find ways to thoughtfully ensure that as much waste—organics or otherwise—is diverted from landfill. At the same time, we’ve got to grow our landfill capacity, because the dependency on Michigan and New York for our commercial waste—40%. That is no longer something that we can continue to rely upon. It will be a made-in-Ontario solution, and I welcome thoughtful input from all fronts.

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The Acting Speaker (MPP Andrea Hazell)

Question?

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MPP Paul Vickers

This bill includes a lot of good and common-sense changes—and the proposed amendments to certain energy-from-waste incineration facility is no different. Streamlining processes for these facilities supports a stronger waste diversion effort from landfills, something my constituents support. Can the minister please explain why this is important for Ontario?

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Hon. Todd J. McCarthy

This is all very important because, again, we create the conditions for success. A made-in-Ontario solution to win the race for capital on all fronts, whether it’s on expanding our landfill capacity, whether it’s energy-from-waste—this is what we need to do to protect Ontario. This is a comprehensive piece of legislation. It’s about streamlining, it’s about faster approvals, and it’s also about environmental protection, second to none. The House can rest assured, the member can rest assured, that we will maintain strong environmental oversight while maintaining and enhancing the conditions for growth and economic prosperity.

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Second reading debate deemed adjourned.

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Mr. Anthony Leardi

We are lowering the cost of building new homes in Essex county. Our government has collaborated with the federal government and with municipalities to introduce the Development Charge Reduction Program. This program is going to lower the cost of building new homes in Essex county. Under this program, the town of LaSalle will be eligible for over $25 million in grants. The town of Essex will be eligible for $8.8 million in grants. The municipality of Lakeshore will be eligible to receive $11.8 million. The town of Kingsville can receive up to $8.4 million. And the county of Essex level of government is eligible to receive $51.2 million. That is a total of over $105 million that is on the table to build new homes in Essex county. I am calling upon the municipalities of Essex county and the great home builders of Essex county to take advantage of this great opportunity that is now on the table. Go out there and build new homes for the people of Essex county.

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Mr. Jeff Burch

Earlier this month, I met with Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre’s CEO, Dr. David Ceglie, to learn more about the hospital’s exciting new expansion plans in my riding. The proposed expansion includes a new, purpose-built hospital on existing property that will be three times the size of the current in-patient building. Hotel Dieu Shaver is currently operating within aging infrastructure dating back to the 1930s, making it one of the oldest operating hospitals in Canada. This new facility will include 190 in-patient beds, with capacity to grow further as Niagara’s population grows; expanded therapy areas; and modern spaces designed to support rehabilitation and complex care. The need for this expansion is only growing. Niagara has one of the oldest populations in Ontario and Canada, with nearly one in four residents aged 65 or older. As our region continues to grow and age, demand for specialized rehabilitation and complex care will only increase. This project is about ensuring our health care infrastructure can meet those needs, both today and for generations to come. Dr. Ceglie tells me they submitted the functional program back in March of this year, outlining how our future rehabilitation hospital will operate. Currently, they’re waiting for the Treasury Board to approve the plans so they can move on to the next phase of the project. I’m calling on the government to approve the functional program without delay, to help get it moving. This expansion will help ease pressure on the local hospital—

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The Acting Speaker (MPP Andrea Hazell)

I recognize the member for Nepean.

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MPP Tyler Watt

It is such an honour and a privilege for me to be here. Every day, I walk through the front doors of Queen’s Park so I can take in the absolute beauty and privilege of being able to work and represent my riding of Nepean. One of my favourite things in my riding is to get to spend time with the incredible people and organizations that make our communities so special. And believe me, I’ve had a lot of time to do that over the last five months. I had a fantastic time hosting our very first Nepean Fall Fest, celebrating our community at the Indian food festival in Barrhaven, and joining the fun at the Barrhaven carnival, where I even got dunked in a dunk tank to help raise money for CHEO—a special shout-out to Nihaal and the Singh family for their incredible efforts in bringing people together and supporting such an important cause. I was proud to participate in many community walks, supporting Lupus Ontario, ALS, and Diabetes Canada, and to host a booth at Capital Pride. One of the most meaningful moments was meeting a brave little warrior named Samy, who is living with limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, a rare genetic condition. His parents, Azeddine and Wisal, with their unwavering advocacy, love and determination to give their son the best possible future, are truly inspiring. These are just some of the many moments that remind me how special Nepean is. I want to thank all the volunteers, organizers and residents who make Nepean such a special place. I’m incredibly grateful for the trust the people in Nepean have placed in me, and I’ll never take this privilege for granted.

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MPP Silvia Gualtieri

Speaker, I am grateful to be back in the House representing the wonderful riding of Mississauga East–Cooksville. It was a busy summer. During Seniors Month, in June, we hosted our second Annual Seniors Living Expo, and I thank our 25 exhibitors and nearly 200 attendees for making it a success. I also welcomed the Pakistani Christian community to a meet-and-greet celebrating leaders John Gill, Yeshwa Younas and Peter Bhatti. In September, over 500 residents joined our Family Fall Fair at Burnhamthorpe Community Centre. From a read-along with the MPP to fun games, henna and caricature artists, young and old enjoyed the day together. Yesterday, this House heard views from both sides of the aisle on my private member’s motion on advancing consumer transparency in a changing digital environment. Today, I welcome here my staff, community organizations and AI leaders who have supported me in this motion that seeks to make residents in Mississauga East–Cooksville and beyond confident in adopting AI, with policies from this House that protect them.

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Ms. Jennifer K. French

Post-secondary students across the province are in limbo. The Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security had to call the cops on his ministry’s own mismanagement of the OSAP file. He has ignored warnings from the Auditor General and from Career Colleges Ontario, who sounded the alarm years ago. He blamed students instead of managing his own house, and now students no longer have the financial assistance they need. Brittany is enrolled in a program, but because all OSAP got cancelled, she found out she would unexpectedly have to come up with six grand by November 2, and now she can’t start her program. Jennifer is pursuing her bachelor of education, through Tyndale, in a program that this government accredited. And we need teachers. Jennifer wants to know about timelines and wants to know how an accredited institution gets lumped together with bad actors. She wants to know, where did all the funding go? Dani shared, “I’m doing everything that is asked of me. I am preparing for a career in community mental health. I am raising two children. And I am trying to do all of that without putting my family further into debt. As a parent, OSAP is not a luxury for me; it is part of what makes pursuing this degree possible.” Josy said, “I have no OSAP funds, no Ontario Works support, and no other income, savings, or family support. I am now struggling to pay for rent, food, and basic needs, and the situation is becoming urgent.” No OSAP, no certainty, no information—and now, no path forward. This minister mismanaged the system, and now every student in Ontario is paying the price for his gross incompetence. Ontario students deserve answers and deserve better.

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Mr. Deepak Anand

Ontario has been built by people across the world who have made our province their home, pursued opportunities, and given back to their communities—like Kris Shah. Giving back is part of what makes our communities strong. Nearly three in four Canadians volunteer or help others in their communities. Today, I rise to recognize the Shah Family Foundation, established in 2022 by Kris and Neelam Shah to strengthen communities through investments in health care and education. Its work focuses on expanding access to education and health care, reducing barriers to opportunity, and supporting initiatives that improve well-being and create lasting benefits for communities. The foundation has committed over $61.7 million across 52 projects, supporting hospitals, universities and community organizations across Ontario and globally. Here in Ontario, its partnership with Trillium Health Partners is helping advance the Shah Family Hospital for Women and Children in Mississauga–Malton—and Sai Dham Food Bank’s children’s breakfast program provides nutritious breakfasts for children. To everyone across the globe: If you’re looking to come and build your home, Ontario is open. Thank you to Kris and Neelam Shah for embodying the Ontario spirit of generosity and commitment to improving lives. Thank you for everything you do.

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Ms. Catherine Fife

The 2025 Ontario elections saw 771 candidates, of which only 32% were women. Only 46 women or gender-diverse people were elected as MPPs, representing 37% of this Legislature. These are not encouraging numbers, but there is hope. Today, we welcome 124 young women and gender-diverse people from across the province for the Ontario Women’s Parliamentary Forum: Pathway to Parliament. Participants will gain an immersive, behind-the-scenes look at Ontario’s parliamentary process, with opportunities to engage directly with female leaders and discover the possibilities and potential of public service. Designed to inspire the next generation of leaders, the forum encourages participants to consider careers in politics and public service. As Ontario’s political landscape evolves, it is critical that women and gender-diverse candidates are part of the fabric of the electoral process. This is how we build a strong democracy. Participants applied by sharing their leadership experiences, commitment to their communities, and passion for civic engagement. Some 245 young women applied to be part of this program; I can confidently say that there is a strong interest among young women in leadership and public service. On a personal note, I just want to say that I find this day incredibly inspiring. Seeing the energy, determination and potential of our future leaders gives me tremendous hope for Ontario’s future. Thanks to all who made this day possible.

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Mr. Robert Bailey

I’m thrilled to share with the Legislature a historic milestone for rural health care in Sarnia–Lambton and another example of our government’s investment in and commitment to public health care. Last week, I was honoured to join the parliamentary assistant to the Minister of Health, municipal leaders, and officials from Bluewater Health to celebrate the groundbreaking of the long-awaited capital redevelopment of the emergency department and diagnostic imaging areas at Charlotte Eleanor Englehart Hospital of Bluewater Health. This project represents years of dedication, advocacy and collaboration across Petrolia, Sarnia–Lambton, and the province of Ontario. Supported by an investment from our government of $17 million, this project will renovate over 8,200 square feet of existing space and help deliver on our goal to connect every family in Lambton county to high-quality health care close to home. This is part of our government’s plan to protect Ontario’s health care system by investing over $64 billion in more than 50 major hospital projects across the province. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the residents of Sarnia–Lambton, I want to thank the Premier, the Minister of Health, Bluewater Health, and our dedicated community partners for continuing to champion health care close to home. Shovels are in the ground today, ensuring Charlotte Eleanor Englehart Hospital will continue providing world-class health care for generations to come.

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Mr. Andrew Dowie

Madam Speaker, the tragic fire at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright claimed four lives, injured many others, and forever changed families across our country. Today, I rise to recognize one of those injured: Private Daniel Thrasher, a proud son of Tecumseh, who remains in critical care. Daniel joined Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry as an infanteer in December 2025. Before answering the call to serve in Canada, he distinguished himself through service, teamwork and determination. He played varsity football with Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Windsor Lancers. He coached young athletes at école secondaire l’Essor and worked as a wildland firefighter in Alberta. Daniel is a courageous and hard-working young man who has always given back to others. Now, Tecumseh and communities all across Windsor and Essex county are standing together for him. Our thoughts and prayers remain with Daniel; his parents, John and Carmen; his siblings; and every family affected by this tragedy. To Daniel: Everyone in your community is behind you. Keep fighting. We look forward to seeing you come home.

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Mr. Lorne Coe

Peter Devlin, the president of Fanshawe College, and Maureen Adamson, the president of Colleges Ontario, are here at Queen’s Park this morning to support the Poppy Project, a project by Fanshawe College in partnership with the Royal Canadian Legion. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

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Mr. Anthony Leardi

Speaker, I’d like to welcome a constituent from my riding, Patrizia Simone. Welcome to the Legislature of Ontario.

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Mr. Logan Kanapathi

I’d like to welcome and recognize, on behalf of Minister Paul Calandra and the beautiful riding of Markham–Stouffville, page Kavin Mahesan, page captain today; his mom, Kasthuri Mahesan; his dad, Shayanthan Mahesan. Welcome to Queen’s Park.

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MPP George Darouze

I would like to welcome an amazing constituent from my riding, Billy Woods, who has dedicated so much time to volunteering for things such as the Metcalfe Fair and other causes to make Carleton better. He’s a true leader in our community through the best and the worst of times. I’m so glad to see him here today. Welcome to your House, Billy.

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MPP Catherine McKenney

It is my pleasure to introduce Grace Craig, a constituent of Ottawa Centre, who is here to take part in the women’s parliamentary forum. Congratulations, and welcome to your House.

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Ms. Lee Fairclough

I’d like to introduce and welcome, from my riding of Etobicoke–Lakeshore, Negin Talebi. She is here as well to participate in this wonderful women’s parliamentary forum today. Welcome to your House.

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Mme France Gélinas

She’s making her way in—Erin Ariss, who is the ONA provincial president, as well as Natalie Mehra, the executive director of the Ontario Health Coalition.

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MPP Silvia Gualtieri

I would like to welcome my staff from Mississauga East–Cooksville, community leaders, and AI representatives to support my motion today.

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Ms. Mary-Margaret McMahon

I’d like to welcome two community builders from Forest Hill Rotary Club: Oksana Danylych and Marvin Graf. Welcome to your House.

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

Colleagues, in 2025, I launched the Remarkable Women in the Workplace initiative to recognize the outstanding women who contribute to the work of the Office of the Assembly. Through this monthly initiative, we celebrate the dedication, the professionalism and the contributions of women across our organization whose work supports the operations of our Legislature. Today I’m pleased to draw your attention to the Speaker’s gallery, to recognize our honourees for the months of July, August, September and October. Katie Mcilwaine, legislative information coordinator for the procedural services branch and the honouree for July: Katie’s technical expertise, collaborative approach, and commitment to continuous learning have strengthened the work of the procedural services branch. By improving House documents processes and contributing to research and writing projects beyond her core responsibilities, she provides thoughtful, practical solutions that strengthen branch initiatives and advance the assembly’s work. Bryony Livingston, research librarian for the legislative library and the honouree for August: Bryony’s expertise, professionalism, and commitment to service excellence strengthen the work of the legislative library. A valued member of the reference team, she consistently provides MPPs and legislative clients with thorough research and reliable information on a wide range of topics. Through her leadership within the legal library community, she fosters collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Albena Bakalov, senior project management consultant for the precinct properties branch: Drawing on extensive experience in architecture and architectural conservation, she brings a thoughtful and detail-oriented approach to complex projects, ensuring key considerations are carefully addressed and positive outcomes achieved. Known for her collaborative spirit, and dedicated to mentorship, she generously shares her expertise and supports those around her. A valued colleague, her professionalism, kindness and commitment to excellence leave a lasting impact on both the projects she undertakes and the workplace culture that she helps foster. Ellen Wankiewicz, research officer for legislative research services and the honouree for October: Drawing on her strong background in law and health policy, she provides insightful research and analysis that support members and committees in addressing complex issues. Known for her willingness to assist colleagues, mentor others, and contribute to accessibility and workplace initiatives, Ellen consistently goes above and beyond in service to the assembly. On behalf of all members and staff, I extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to Katie, Bryony, Albena and Ellen. Thank you for your remarkable service to Ontario’s Parliament.

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Applause.

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

Now I would like to introduce another group that is working for us today, our pages, if you would like to gather in front of the dais, please. From the riding of Oakville, we have Shreya Bapatla; from Guelph, Anne Dyck; from Don Valley West, Sophie Edwards; from Eglinton–Lawrence, Jessica Goldfarb; from Simcoe North, Evelyn Johnstone; from Scarborough Southwest, Isabella Jung; from Northumberland–Peterborough South, Robert Kennedy; from Pickering–Uxbridge, Jaittran Khandan; from Toronto–St. Paul’s, Oliver Linden; from King–Vaughan, Kate Ruoxi Liu; from Markham–Stouffville, Kavin Mahesan; from Don Valley East, Julien Morische; from Niagara West, Tyler Mous; from Mississauga–Malton, Hajar Mughal; from Whitby, Neha Navin; from Haldimand–Norfolk, Ramina Ramanathan; from Essex, Marcus Reaume; from Hamilton West–Ancaster–Dundas, Andrea Reyes Martinez; from Flamborough–Glanbrook, the best riding, here in Queen’s Park Legislature—if you want to be acknowledged today, we’d all agree—Gavin Roberts; from Oakville North–Burlington, Sarvesh Sathish Kumar; and from Thunder Bay–Atikokan, Penelope Upper-Smith. Welcome, pages.

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Applause.

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Ms. Marit Stiles

My question is to the Premier. Earlier this year, this government made a choice that turned the lives of so many people upside down—when they cut OSAP. They handed young families and people trying to build a better future a lifetime debt sentence. The Premier repeatedly blamed students for fraud, but now it is clear that they knew all along that the real bad actors were fraudulent private career colleges. So let’s get the story straight, shall we? Did the Premier blame students even though he knew that the real issue was private career college bad actors?

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

I recognize the Minister of Colleges and Universities.

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Hon. Nolan Quinn

I think the Leader of the Opposition is compounding two different conversations. The changes we made to OSAP were to make it more sustainable for the next generation of students behind these students. The Auditor General, in 2018, said the changes that the Liberal government made were unsustainable—and we have changed it back to 25% grants, 75% loans. When we’re referencing the private career colleges, we’re talking about serious criminal allegations of misuse of OSAP dollars and fraud, so we will not apologize for referring that to the Ontario Provincial Police. These are serious allegations of criminal fraud against the taxpayers of Ontario. And we will ensure that we have respect of taxpayer dollars before we release any OSAP dollars moving forward.

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

Back to the Leader of the Opposition.

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Ms. Marit Stiles

Speaker, it’s pretty rich that this government is talking about criminal investigations when they are under criminal investigation right now. We all heard the Premier stand up and blame students and student fraud; the whole province heard this. The best way to get answers, though, about why this government makes decisions is always to follow the money. So let’s follow the money, shall we? In 2024, private college executives donated $151,000 to the PCs. The minister at the time, the MPP for Simcoe North, got $30,000 in donations just from private college executives alone. It certainly looks like students had the rug pulled out from under them so members of this government could keep cashing in. So my question back to the Premier is simple: Was this incompetence, or are students and families paying the price for your insider deals?

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Hon. Nolan Quinn

The system was working. We’ve done investigations; we’ve done inspections of many different institutions. Earlier this year, we actually suspended six career colleges with OSAP eligibility, moving forward. But in August, we recognized that this was pretty widespread and significant, so we brought in a third-party auditor, KPMG, to ensure that taxpayer dollars are respected. I need assurances from the auditor before I release any taxpayer dollars to students, to ensure that they are going to their intended use: towards students and ensuring that their education is looked after through OSAP. I will not apologize for reporting it to the Ontario Provincial Police. We’re respecting taxpayer dollars. We’re ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used for their intended use: supporting students moving forward.

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

Final supplementary.

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Ms. Marit Stiles

Speaker, students’ lives are turned upside down. Families are paying for this government’s incompetence. And that minister should resign. None of this happened overnight. The government knew about these bad actors for years. The warnings, we know now, started back in 2023. Career Colleges Ontario themselves flagged suspicious activities with this government. There were also warnings from the federal government, who flagged potential fraud at the Academy of Learning’s two locations. But instead of sending in inspectors, the government decided to approve them for a whole other year before they took any action. Let’s talk about incompetence. My question to the Premier is, did the government purposely delay inspections, or is your incompetence again costing us millions?

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Hon. Nolan Quinn

Both inspections at Bay and Brampton East began in October 2024. These inspections were multi-faceted and included reviewing data we had, data requested from the institution, and in-person inspections. This process is very technical, very complex and sometimes takes over a year, in some cases. But when it comes to these two institutions, once we had the evidence, we cut them off from OSAP in May 2026. As I’ve stated earlier, we truly understand the impact this has on the good students—and rest assured, we’re working as urgently as possible to ensure that we have confidence in our OSAP system, so we can release that back to the students. But I will not release another taxpayer dollar until I have confidence in the complete OSAP system.

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Ms. Marit Stiles

My next question is also to the Premier of this province. Let’s talk a little bit more about their failures and their selling out of the people of Ontario. Eight years ago, this Premier ran on a promise to end the Liberal legacy of hallway health care. For years, under the previous government, we saw the trend of patients being treated in hallways in our hospitals, and it was getting worse and worse; he said he was going to reverse it. But here we are, and the problem is worse than it has ever been in the history of this province. In 2025, for the first time, we saw that the number of patients being treated in hallways surpassed 2,000 people per day. Why has this Premier let hallway health care become the norm?

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

I recognize the Minister of Health.

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Hon. Sylvia Jones

Well, I will agree with the opposite leader on one issue, and that is, the Liberals definitely left our province in shambles, economically, and in our health care system. Having said that, since 2018 we’ve actually added 3,500 net new hospital beds across Ontario. We are on track to add an additional 3,000 net new hospital beds across Ontario. My colleague the Minister of Long-Term Care is working diligently to ensure our expansion of long-term-care beds, again, across Ontario. We are doing the work that the Liberals refused to do when they were in power, and we are seeing the results. The results are that we are seeing the highest number of individuals who are getting access through primary care expansion. We are seeing Ontario leading Canada in many surgeries and many diagnostic procedures. We are making a difference in the province of Ontario, and we’ll continue to do that work—something that the Liberals refused to do.

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

Supplementary.

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Ms. Marit Stiles

If this is this minister’s measure of success, oh, my goodness. Right before the Premier got elected, under the Liberals there were 1,300 people being treated in hallways every day in this province. Fast-forward to January 2025: An average of 2,088 Ontarians were treated in hallways on a daily basis. This is not a monthly average; this is over 2,000 people every day on gurneys, in chairs, in hallways, in broom closets. The system was already on fire, and then this government came in and poured gasoline all over it. Does the Premier think that having thousands of people—children, seniors—treated in hospital hallways every single day is acceptable?

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Hon. Sylvia Jones

Let’s talk about some of the investments and the impact that they’ve had. When we invested $134 million in our emergency departments, we have seen wait times and ambulance-off-load delays—how long it takes for an ambulance to transfer that patient to hospital care, to the expert, world-class clinicians we have working in Ontario hospitals. We’ve seen decreases in those off-load delays. Lakeridge Health, for example—an 81% improvement in consistently meeting provincial targets. Another example is the Niagara Health nurse practitioner pilot; it has reduced initial physician assessment times by nearly four hours. That’s the innovation that our hospital clinicians are making to ensure that people get access closer to home and faster in the province of Ontario.

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

Leader of the Opposition.

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Ms. Marit Stiles

Speaker, by any measure, this is a systemic failure of this minister—if you don’t believe me, believe the nurses. ONA is here today. Yesterday, the nurse practitioners were here. They’re all telling us that it’s getting worse, not better. And let me tell you, they have solutions. This is a 52% increase in the number of people getting care in hallways and broom closets. Our family members deserve better than that. Our taxpayers deserve better than that. They deserve dignity. The Premier promised them that dignity, after years of Liberal neglect, and instead he has become the very thing he was campaigning against. Back to the Premier: When did this Premier decide to give up on fixing hallway health care altogether?

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Hon. Sylvia Jones

There is no doubt that nurses across Ontario—a very highly sought-after, in-demand profession—are doing incredible work in our hospitals, in our primary care facilities, in our long-term-care facilities, in our home and community care facilities. What we are doing is ensuring that we have that multidisciplinary team working together in our hospital positions—working with lab techs, working with respiratory therapists, making sure that that multidisciplinary team continues to be part of a critical assessment of our hospital system. I know all members here understand the incredibly important work that nurses play in our facilities. We have registered an additional 100,000 nurses in the province of Ontario, and we currently have 30,000 who are training in our post-secondary institutions. What does that say? We love our nurses, we want them to train here, and we’ll continue to support them.

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Mr. John Fraser

My question is for the Premier. Speaker, every day, more and more Ontarians are falling farther behind. And today, we learned that the Premier has taken hallway health care to new heights: You are 55% more likely to end up in a hallway if you’re in hospital than you were in 2018. You ask yourself, how do we fix that? More nurses, more PSWs, more health care helpers—but the Premier has made it harder to get those folks because of this colossal mismanagement of OSAP. He has made it harder—harder to get the training they need, harder for them to go to school. The question is, why does the minister of training, colleges and universities, and all the other things that come after that, still have his job?

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

Minister of Colleges and Universities.

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Hon. Nolan Quinn

I’ll say it again to the leader of the third party: These are serious criminal allegations. What I am very proud of is the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant. We’ve had over 13,000 students go through the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant and commit to working in a rural area of Ontario. We’ve actually just rolled out the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant 2.0 for family medicine as well, and over 2,000 future family medicine doctors are part of that program as well. Speaker, I will not apologize for ensuring that taxpayer dollars are well-respected, or my referral to the Ontario Provincial Police. These are bad actors. These are serious allegations. And we’re bringing forward legislation this session to be able to put the appropriate guardrails in place so that the bad actors can’t keep defrauding Ontario.

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

The leader of the third party for a first supplementary.

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Mr. John Fraser

This government hasn’t been respecting taxpayer dollars when it comes to OSAP for at least three years now, maybe more. The minister has made it harder for every student in Ontario—college, university, career college, trucking schools. Every single student in Ontario—more debt, more hardship, more uncertainty. Here’s a story from Vycki from Essex: “I am a nurse and teach the PSW program. I have instilled work ethic and educational skills for hundreds of students who are now employed. This new OSAP ruling has devastated my current class of amazing students. There is no reason to destroy their lives for something they did not do.” Speaker, through you to the minister: Why are you destroying their lives for something they didn’t do?

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Hon. Nolan Quinn

He has to remember that those students are taxpayers as well, and we’re respecting taxpayer dollars to ensure that they’re not used fraudulently. Speaker, these are serious criminal allegations. These are bad actors that took advantage of Ontario taxpayer dollars. And I will not apologize for reporting it to the Ontario Provincial Police. But we understand the impact this has on good students. That’s why we’re working as urgently as possible to bring forward a new OSAP system that will have the appropriate guardrails in place. The legislation we’re bringing forward this session will ensure that we can release OSAP dollars with confidence to all students across the career college sector.

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

Final supplementary, leader of the third party.

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Mr. John Fraser

Approved, enrolled, abandoned—this Premier is abandoning hard-working people just trying to get ahead, to help their family get ahead. Here’s Genevie from the Premier’s riding: “I have a PSW certification and paying $12,000 on OSAP right now. I wanted to continue to a registered practical nurse pathway program but I can’t pursue it right now because there is no OSAP. Please help students like us who are really in need.” To the Minister: What’s your answer to Genevie?

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Hon. Nolan Quinn

My answer to Genevie is that I need assurances from the third-party auditor. Right now, the third-party auditor, KPMG, has not given me confidence that I can release OSAP dollars to career college students. I need that confidence and assurances from KPMG. That is why we reported it to the Ontario Provincial Police. These are serious criminal allegations, and we need to ensure that the Ontario Provincial Police does their inspections on it. I will not apologize for ensuring that taxpayer dollars are well-respected. We understand the hard-working students who are caught up in this, and that’s why we’re working urgently to bring legislation forward this session to re-release OSAP to the students, as well as working with third-party banks for low-interest loans. We understand the impact this has on good students. But at the same time, I need to ensure that taxpayer dollars are respected and used as they’re intended.

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Mr. John Fraser

You don’t understand it, because you’d be doing something for all these hard-working people if you actually did. So don’t buy it, folks. Don’t fall for it. In 2020, the government changed the rules to make online-only courses for career colleges OSAP-eligible. In 2021, the Auditor General warned the government about the serious vulnerabilities in the career college system. In 2023, Career Colleges Ontario warned the government about suspicious activity. In 2024, the career college people said, “Call the police. You’re being robbed.” Who doesn’t call the police when they know they’re being robbed? Why would they be afraid of doing that? Minister, why were you afraid to call the police when you were warned? Are you hiding something?

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

I will remind members to direct their questions and the responses through the Speaker. I recognize the minister.

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Hon. Nolan Quinn

I reported it to the Ontario Provincial Police, so I’m not too sure why he believes I’m afraid of reporting it to the police. Speaker, in late 2024, we saw a growing volume of OSAP applications at career colleges. In January 2025—that member referenced—Career Colleges Ontario had the same concerns we did. In May 2025, the federal government had their own investigation and gave us the results of that investigation. My ministry expanded the reviews, did enhanced reviews, targeted inspections, and ultimately eliminated OSAP eligibility from these institutions. But in August, we recognized that this was more widespread and more serious than individual inspections. That’s why we brought in a third-party auditor, KPMG, to ensure that they can give us the confidence and assurances to be able to release OSAP and taxpayer dollars back to the students.

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

Supplementary, leader of the third party.

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Mr. John Fraser

I wouldn’t trust this minister to mind my cat while I went to mail a letter. In 2025, the government got a list of offending campuses from Career Colleges Ontario, and this minister continued to send hundreds of millions of dollars to those colleges—he knew, they knew, everybody knew. In fact, one offending college’s scheduled inspection was inexplicably delayed after funding had been approved that year—hundreds of millions of dollars out the door, offending college, no explanation. So, Minister, why don’t you just do the decent, right thing to do and resign?

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Hon. Nolan Quinn

I will not be resigning. Let me just explain that these inspections are multi-faceted and include reviewing data that we have, data requested from the institution, and in-person inspections. The member of the third party, the third-time interim leader, may not understand, but the process is very technical; it’s very complex. Inspections take over a year to be able to complete. When it comes to tips that we receive, we take them all very seriously. Since 2020, we’ve had over 3,200 OSAP inspections, and we’ll continue doing those, moving forward.

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

Final supplementary?

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Mr. John Fraser

One year—$385 million to seven colleges; $219 million to three campuses of the one college. And then, in the spring of 2026, the Premier said, “It’s the students. They’re buying watches and perfume. It’s unsustainable. We need to cut it.” He knew that wasn’t true—he had to know; the minister had to know. And now they’ve stopped just about—

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

I’ll ask—

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Mr. John Fraser

I withdraw. And now they’ve stopped just about every provincial program that supports some hard-working person just trying to get ahead and just trying to get a job—honest, hard-working people, approved, enrolled and abandoned. How can the minister respond in the way that he has this morning—and the caucus over there stand up and clap—when all these people are being punished? How can that happen?

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Hon. Nolan Quinn

I think it’s worth reminding the leader of the third party that the people of Ontario do not trust them to be the government of Ontario. I will not apologize. Again, I will say it: We reported it to the Ontario Provincial Police. There are bad actors that took advantage of Ontario taxpayer dollars, and we are acting swiftly to ensure that those taxpayer dollars are well respected. Any misuse of OSAP is completely unacceptable. And these are serious allegations. With reference to that member, he was working for the previous Premier, Minister McGuinty, and at the time they only had 25% grants, 75% loans. For some reason, when he was working in his office, he was A-okay with the grant-to-loan ratio, but now he has an issue. I think he needs to look in the rear-view mirror himself.

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Ms. Chandra Pasma

Four months after the Canada Day storm flooded more than 7,500 homes in Ottawa, residents are still trying to restore their homes and pay bills that are mounting into the tens of thousands of dollars. People are experiencing extreme financial pressure and stress, made worse by the shamefully inadequate response from this Conservative government. They didn’t give us any help to clean up, and the vast majority of homes affected are excluded from the Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians program. Will the Premier finally stop ignoring Ottawa and expand disaster recovery assistance to everyone affected by the Canada Day flood?

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The Speaker (Hon. Donna Skelly)

I recognize the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

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Hon. Rob Flack

I acknowledge that we had some difficult storms this summer, not only in Ottawa—Toronto, Niagara region, and in southwestern Ontario. The bottom line is, we have to understand the difference between private insurance and DRAO—disaster recovery relief. That is the key. Insurance is the first line of defence; it always has been, and it always will be. DRAO is for overland flooding. Municipalities are key in this process. They need to help define where the disasters took place, what types of disasters. Our officials will support that. We’ll make the determination whether DRAO is activated or not. In Ottawa, parts of the city, as I’ve told the member opposite, were activated because there was proof that there was overland flooding. Overland flooding is not covered—if it’s not covered by insurance, we will step in as a ministry, we will step in as a government. Bottom line: Let’s remember the difference between DRAO and private insurance. DRAO is not insurance.

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