Ontario – mackaycartoons

Thursday December 7, 2023

December 7, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday December 7, 2023

Doug Ford’s Ontario Science Centre Move: A Skeptical Look at Taxpayers’ Interests

November 22, 2023

The recent decision by the Ontario government to relocate the Ontario Science Centre to Ontario Place has raised eyebrows and skepticism among taxpayers. Premier Doug Ford’s claim that the move will save over $250 million appears to be a complex equation that doesn’t add up when closely examined.

Firstly, the province’s acting Auditor-General, Nick Stavropoulos, highlights significant flaws in the government’s cost analysis. Stavropoulos points out that the business-case report failed to include essential elements such as the price tag for legal assistance, financing, and other transaction costs for the new facility. Moreover, the estimated cost of repairing and rehabilitating the existing building, pegged at $370 million, was conveniently left out of the equation.

News: Ford government’s decision to move Ontario Science Centre based on ‘incomplete’ info, AG finds

March 10, 2022

The government’s assertion that the move will benefit the struggling science centre financially is met with skepticism, given the omission of crucial costs. It raises questions about whether Doug Ford has the best interests of Ontario taxpayers in mind or if there are ulterior motives at play.

Furthermore, the lack of proper consultations with the city, school boards, and other relevant authorities is a cause for concern. The Auditor-General’s report emphasizes the absence of discussions with the Toronto area’s school boards and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority. Such a significant decision impacting public resources warrants thorough consultation and transparency, which, in this case, appears to be lacking.

October 15, 2021

The suspicions surrounding the motivations behind the move gain traction when considering the potential financial gains for developers. The plans to allow a private Austrian-based company to build a large spa and waterpark complex on the Ontario Place redevelopment site could enrich connected cronies of the government. The absence of clear details about the fate of the existing science centre building and the potential for condo development raises red flags about the true intentions behind this decision.

The released business case, after multiple delays, does little to alleviate concerns. Liberal MPP Adil Shamji points out that the math only works because the science centre’s footprint is being “slashed in half,” despite the province claiming there will be more exhibition space. The opposition, including NDP Leader Marit Stiles, criticizes the government’s justification, describing it as relying on “shaky 50-year guesstimates” without accounting for crucial expenses.

News: Moving Ontario Science Centre to Ontario Place would save $257-million, report says

August 10, 2023

The move, planned for 2028, also seems to lack consideration for the potential decline in attendance from suburban families and schools, as noted by the Auditor-General. The government’s focus on job creation and operational savings, while valid considerations, should not overshadow the broader implications and potential costs hidden in the fine print.

Premier Doug Ford’s decision to move the Ontario Science Centre prompts skepticism about its true motives. With financial calculations that appear incomplete and a lack of transparent consultations, there are concerns that the interests of Ontario taxpayers might not be at the forefront. The potential for enriched developers and the absence of a comprehensive, well-reasoned plan contribute to the prevailing skepticism surrounding this controversial move. (AI)

Tuesday December 5, 2023

December 5, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday December 5, 2023

Bonnie Crombie Faces Uphill Battle to Revitalize Ontario Liberals

In the aftermath of her victory, Bonnie Crombie now grapples with the challenging task of rejuvenating the Ontario Liberal Party, an uphill battle exacerbated by the shadows of unpopular predecessors. The names Dalton McGuinty, Kathleen Wynne, and Steven del Duca still linger as ghosts of electoral defeats past, casting a daunting backdrop against the present provincial landscape, where the PCs hold a commanding lead in polls.

November 28, 2023

Crombie’s leadership ascent, once predicted as a triumph on the first ballot, turned out to be a prolonged struggle, taking three rounds to secure a narrow victory. Moreover, the lackluster turnout for the leadership vote rings an embarrassing note, considering the boasted surge in Liberal memberships. Despite efforts to stoke enthusiasm, only a fraction of the party’s members participated, casting doubts on the true vitality of the Liberal base.

Crombie, a self-described retail politician with an energetic and relatable persona, now faces the formidable task of defining a clear party focus. Her leadership platform, while extensive in policies, lacked the critical element of fiscal responsibility, leaving voters uncertain about how her ambitious plans would be funded.

Early in her campaign, Crombie’s wavering stance on ideological positioning, initially leaning centre-right before retracting, raises concerns about her clarity and consistency. Striking a balance between attracting a broad spectrum of voters and establishing a distinct party identity will be paramount.

News: Bonnie Crombie is officially the Ontario Liberal leader. Here’s what she’s prioritizing

March 10, 2020

As leader, Crombie confronts four key challenges: crystallizing the party’s identity, learning the intricacies of provincial politics, fundraising, and attracting quality candidates. With the next election more than two years away, she has a window of opportunity, but the clock is ticking.

The decision on securing a legislative seat poses another strategic dilemma. Crombie’s contemplation of running in Lambton-Kent-Middlesex, a historically strong PC constituency, underscores the complexity of her path to power. The challenge intensifies as she leads a party with only nine MPPs, necessitating careful seat selection for potential gains.

May 8, 2018

The scale of Crombie’s task becomes apparent when examining the Ontario Liberal Party’s recent political decline. From a dominant force with 72 seats in 2003 to a mere seven in 2018, the Liberals face the arduous challenge of regaining relevance. Despite recent modest gains, the party remains far from its former stature.

Crombie’s leadership strengths, particularly in fundraising, offer a glimmer of hope. However, overcoming the financial disparity with the PC and NDP rivals requires a sustained and aggressive approach. The grassroots rebuild, crucial for local support and candidate recruitment, appears to be an even more daunting endeavour, with many riding associations described as “completely dead.”

Opinion: Bonnie Crombie could be the next premier — or the last-ever leader of the Ontario Liberals

September 16, 2023

A recent poll underscores the enormity of Crombie’s task, with the Doug Ford government enjoying a substantial lead. While her leadership could sway some voters, forming government remains a distant prospect. Distancing herself from the Federal Liberals and Justin Trudeau is a necessary move, given the potential drag on her leadership aspirations.

In conclusion, Bonnie Crombie’s leadership journey is just beginning, marked by challenges that demand resilience, clarity, and strategic acumen. The road to rebuilding the Ontario Liberal Party is long, but with abundant energy and enthusiasm, Crombie might just navigate the twists and turns, propelling her party back into contention. (AI)

From sketch to finish, see the current way Graeme completes an editorial cartoon using an iPencil, the Procreate app, and a couple of cheats on an iPad Pro. If you’re creative, give illustration a try:

Wednesday November 29, 2023

November 29, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday November 29, 2023

Ontario’s Beer Store Faces Uncertain Future: A Nostalgic Look at the Possible Demise

July 26, 2012

In the not-so-distant future, one of Ontario’s iconic institutions, the Beer Store, finds itself on shaky ground. As whispers of its potential demise circulate, reminiscent of other Ontario mainstays like the Pop Shoppe and Consumers Distributing, citizens contemplate a future without the familiar sight of this beer retail giant.

Picture this: a Brewer’s Retail Museum emerges, a nostalgic shrine dedicated to memorializing the bygone days of The Beer Store. In a province that has seen the revival of Zellers and a brief reappearance of the Pop Shoppe before it was permanently relegated to the dustbin of history, this museum stands as a testament to an era when department stores were the heartbeat of Ontario.

News: Billions at stake as Doug Ford government prepares to change booze retailing in Ontario

May 30, 2019

Amidst the nostalgia, Premier Doug Ford’s ongoing efforts to expand alcohol sales beyond the Beer Store are met with mixed emotions. Though beer and wine in convenience stores seem inevitable, the fate of the Beer Store remains uncertain. Speculations arise as insiders suggest that the Master Framework Agreement, governing beer sales in Ontario, may not be renewed, opening the floodgates for increased competition.

The Beer Store, predominantly owned by major breweries like Molson, Labatt, and Sleeman, faces a shifting landscape. The agreement, set to expire in 2025, has spurred the Beer Store to downsize and sell off properties, reducing its footprint by four percent in recent years.

Editorial: Changing how we buy beer in Ontario

December 22, 2014

While rumors of the Beer Store’s potential closure swirl, public sentiment is divided. Many celebrate the end of what they perceive as a problematic monopoly, anticipating greater convenience, variety, and lower prices with increased competition. However, concerns linger about the potential loss of jobs, the disruption of the deposit-return program, and the impact on beer prices.

As the province awaits a decision on the Master Framework Agreement’s renewal, citizens grapple with the possible end of an era. Whether the Beer Store survives the winds of change or succumbs to the evolving landscape, Ontario’s collective sentiment reflects a desire for a more open and competitive market, where choices abound, prices are reasonable, and nostalgia meets progress. (AI)

Tuesday November 28, 2023

November 28, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday November 28, 2023

Ontario Liberals Await New Leader Amidst Voter Apathy Concerns

June 15, 2023

On the cusp of unveiling their new leader this coming weekend, the Ontario Liberal Party finds itself caught between the shadows of Premier Doug Ford and the looming specter of voter apathy. As the live delegate votes unfold in suspense over the next few days, the pressing question for the Ontario Liberals is whether Doug Ford or voter apathy poses the greater challenge.

Over the weekend, thousands of Ontario Liberals participated in the party’s leadership race, casting their ballots for one of four candidates: Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie, Liberal MP Nate Erskine-Smith, MPP Ted Hsu, and MP Yasir Naqvi. The anticipation is palpable, with the announcement of the new leader scheduled for next Saturday at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

News: Ontario Liberals will voted this past weekend to select new leader

March 7, 2023

A significant shift in the party’s leadership selection process is underway, as the Liberals adopt a one-member-one-vote system, mirroring the method that led to Doug Ford’s selection in 2018. While some members applaud the transparency and inclusivity of the new process, concerns linger. William Davis, a delegate from the 2020 convention, voiced reservations about the system, suggesting a longer membership requirement to ensure a more informed electorate.

The contest seems to be invigorating the party, with interim leader John Fraser noting the excitement and energy among Liberals during the weekend’s events. However, the specter of the 2022 election defeat to Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservatives continues to cast its shadow. The post-mortem report released on January 5, 2023, highlights the party’s struggles with an unpopular leader, unclear messaging, and insufficient campaign resources.

News: Ontario records lowest voter turnout in election history

June 9, 2022

The Liberals admitted that their platform lacked a clear vision for the province, relying on gimmicky promises that failed to resonate with voters. The review also identified challenges in volunteer recruitment, canvassing, and a deficiency in voter data and polling efforts. With only 43 percent voter turnout in the 2022 election, apathy emerged as a significant hurdle, affecting all parties.

As the Liberals brace for the announcement of their new leader, the question of whether they have effectively addressed the issues identified in the post-mortem report lingers. Will the chosen leader be equipped to rally the party, engage voters, and pose a formidable challenge to Doug Ford in the 2026 election? Or will the shadow of voter apathy continue to eclipse the party’s efforts, leaving them vulnerable in the political landscape of Ontario? The next chapter in Ontario Liberal politics awaits, and the outcome will undoubtedly shape the party’s trajectory in the years to come. (AI)

Wednesday November 22, 2023

November 22, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday November 22, 2023

Doug Ford’s Green Dilemma: An Unappetizing Plate of Policy

April 18, 2023

As the advocacy group Ontario Place for All takes Premier Doug Ford’s government to court over the redevelopment plans for Ontario Place, the scenario unfolds like a childhood struggle over vegetables at the dinner table. Much like a parent urging a reluctant child to “eat his greens,” this legal battle is a call for Premier Ford to consume a hefty serving of environmental responsibility.

The group, in its pursuit of a “full environmental assessment,” is akin to a concerned parent demanding that Ford thoroughly examine the nutritional content of his policy plate. The court application challenges the omission of the West Island redevelopment from the initial environmental assessment, asserting that a new evaluation, inclusive of the spa complex, is imperative.

News: Ontario Place group seeks court injunction to pause redevelopment

January 12, 2019

In the parental tug-of-war, Ontario Place for All seeks an interim injunction, preventing the government from engaging in actions that would harm the West Island’s trees, amounting to a plea for Ford not to damage the delicate ecosystem. The group also demands transparency, asking for the government to reveal its lease with Therme and the business case for the West Island redevelopment.

Norm Di Pasquale, co-chair of Ontario Place for All, plays the role of the stern but caring parent, stating, “We just want the government to follow its own laws.” It’s a plea for Ford to adhere to the rules and engage in a consultation process, mirroring a parent’s insistence on following established guidelines.

May 12, 2022

On the flip side, Premier Ford seems to adopt a defiant stance, claiming the public’s disinterest in his government’s bill to return land to the Greenbelt. This dismissal is reminiscent of a child claiming indifference to the nutritional benefits of greens. Ford’s government defends brief consultations on the bill, reminiscent of a child resisting a longer dinner engagement.

The Premier’s pivot to the carbon tax issue reflects a child distracting from one disliked vegetable to another. It’s a strategic move to shift focus, suggesting that the public cares more about a different topic – a familiar tactic in the art of diversion.

As the Greenbelt bill faces limited committee hearings, Ford’s government appears to assert newfound confidence, referencing polling figures as evidence of weathering the Greenbelt crisis. The memo from the premier’s office reads like a parent celebrating a child’s improved eating habits, emphasizing the positive outcomes of Ford’s policy adjustments.

News: Doug Ford says public ‘don’t give two hoots’ about Greenbelt reversal bill

Series: Young Doug Ford

In the end, the Ontario NDP’s queries about public engagement on the Greenbelt bill echo the persistent calls of a parent asking, “Why won’t you listen to the public?” Yet, Ford’s government remains steadfast, presenting its decisions as public-policy choices, much like a parent justifying unpopular but supposedly necessary dietary restrictions.

In this political dining room, the menu of environmental policies is served with a side of controversy, and Ford’s government is caught between appeasing the public palate and asserting its own perceived priorities. The question remains: Can Doug Ford find a balance on his policy plate that satisfies both the public’s appetite for environmental protection and his government’s strategic agenda? (AI)