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greenbelt

Wednesday January 23, 2024

January 24, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Ontario Premier Doug Ford announces a plan to revamp the kindergarten curriculum, introducing a mix of play-based learning and foundational instruction in literacy and numeracy.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday January 23, 2024

Ontario’s Kindergarten Curriculum Makeover: A Balancing Act Amidst Past Greenbelt Controversies

March 19, 2019

Ah, Doug Ford, the man with a plan. Or, well, at least a plan to revamp Ontario’s kindergarten curriculum. Because, you know, nothing says “education reform” like a leader who once tried to turn the Greenbelt into a suburban paradise. But hey, let’s not dwell on past mistakes; let’s focus on the bright future of Ontario’s little tots and their newfound appreciation for fractions and phonics.

In a groundbreaking move that will undoubtedly reshape the trajectory of the province, Education Minister Stephen Lecce announced the government’s grand plan to mix “back to basics” instruction with play-based learning in kindergarten. Finally, the kids will be able to recite the alphabet while constructing houses with blocks. Who knew learning could be so… constructive?

News: Doug Ford government to revamp full-day kindergarten curriculum

April 19, 2023

Lecce emphasized the importance of developing “core foundational skills” in our youngest students. Because, let’s face it, the fate of the entire province rests on whether Timmy can correctly identify an up arrow or if Susie can spell “foundation” while building her Lego masterpiece. Move over, Shakespeare, the future literary giants are in kindergarten.

But let’s not forget the genius behind this educational revolution – Doug Ford, the man who once thought it would be a great idea to sacrifice the Greenbelt for the sake of affordable housing. Because who needs a protected environmental area when you can have a few more cookie-cutter houses, right?

In the 2018 election, Ford vowed to open up the Greenbelt, promising developers a piece of the protected pie. However, after a brief moment of enlightenment (or perhaps a strong public backlash), he backtracked, claiming he wouldn’t develop the area after all. Fast forward to 2022, and surprise, surprise – he did exactly what he said he wouldn’t.

September 23, 2023

The Auditor General then swooped in, revealing a flawed process that conveniently favoured certain developers, leading to the removal of 7,400 acres of Greenbelt land. The cost? A mere $8 billion. But hey, who’s counting when you’re reshaping the landscape of the province, one questionable decision at a time?

Ford’s Housing Minister, Steve Clark, faced calls to resign, with the Integrity Commissioner confirming ethics rule violations. But who needs ethical governance when you can build affordable homes for “newcomers and young people” on the Greenbelt? Forget the environment; think of the children – the ones who will be marvelling at their newly constructed block houses in kindergarten.

In the end, after a series of resignations, apologies, and promises to build within urban boundaries, Ford decided to reverse his decision and restore the Greenbelt lands. A true masterclass in leadership and decision-making, wouldn’t you say?

So, as Ontario gears up for the kindergarten curriculum overhaul, let’s all take a moment to appreciate the strategic mind behind it all – the man who brought you Greenbelt chaos and now wants your four-year-old to master fractions. Bravo, Doug Ford, bravo. (AI)

Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 2024-02, bulldozer, classroom, curriculum, Doug Ford, education, greenbelt, kindergarten, Ontario, Stephen Lecce

Saturday December 30, 2023

December 30, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Premier Doug Ford's numerous policy reversals in the past year, including the recent backtrack on dissolving Peel Region, reflect a concerning pattern of indecisiveness and a lack of strategic planning, raising doubts about his government's competence and the need for diligent efforts to rectify the resulting challenges in the months ahead.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday December 30, 2023

Doug Ford’s Policy Reversals: A Year of Wasted Time for Ontario

Young Doug Ford: The Series

As we welcome the dawn of a new year, it’s crucial to reflect on the actions and decisions that have shaped Ontario’s political landscape over the past year, particularly those of Premier Doug Ford and his Progressive Conservative government. Unfortunately, the prevailing sentiment is one of disappointment and frustration as the premier boasts about the numerous policy reversals undertaken during his tenure.

Premier Ford defends his government’s about-face on key issues as a testament to open-mindedness and responsiveness to the people. However, a closer look reveals a pattern of indecisiveness, a lack of foresight, and a disregard for the consequences of hastily made decisions. The recent announcement to abandon the plan to dissolve Peel Region, encompassing Mississauga, Brampton, and Caledon, is just the latest in a series of policy backtracks that have left many questioning the competency of the Ford administration.

September 23, 2023

One of the most glaring examples of policy flip-flopping is the handling of the Ontario Greenbelt. The government initially decided to open up protected Greenbelt lands for housing development, only to reverse this decision after severe criticism from the auditor general and integrity commissioner. The subsequent RCMP investigation underscores the gravity of the situation and raises concerns about the transparency and integrity of the decision-making process.

News: Premier Doug Ford announces reversal of Greenbelt land removals  

December 1, 2022

The misuse of the notwithstanding clause to impose a contract on education workers, the ill-conceived introduction of barely visible blue licence plates, and the mishandling of the Ontario Autism Program all contribute to a growing list of policy failures. These missteps have not only eroded public trust but have also had tangible and lasting impacts on the lives of Ontarians.

The premier’s justification for these reversals often centres around a newfound willingness to listen to the concerns of the people. While adaptability is a commendable trait in a leader, it becomes a cause for concern when it reflects a lack of thorough research, consultation, and strategic planning before enacting policies. The late acknowledgment of issues raised by municipal leaders and experts, as seen in the case of Peel Region’s dissolution, only underscores the government’s failure to proactively address potential challenges.

Premier Doug Ford has fulfilled a 2018 election promise to expand alcohol sales in Ontario, allowing beer, wine, and other beverages to be sold in 8,500 new outlets by January 1, 2026, but the process has taken decades due to long-standing industry agreements.

December 15, 2023

The months ahead will undoubtedly require significant effort to rectify the damage caused by these policy reversals. The premier’s dismissive attitude towards the gravity of these mistakes raises doubts about his ability to navigate the challenges that lie ahead. The need for a more thoughtful and measured approach to governance is apparent, as Ontario cannot afford to waste more time on course corrections and backpedaling.

News: A list of policies and cuts the Doug Ford government has reversed  

As we enter the new year, Ontarians must hold their government accountable for the time, resources, and opportunities squandered due to a lack of effective leadership. It is time for Premier Ford to demonstrate a commitment to sound decision-making, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that Ontario can move forward with policies that truly benefit its citizens. The people of Ontario deserve a government that learns from its mistakes and works diligently to make up for the lost time and opportunities created by a year of policy reversals. (AI)

 

Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 2023-22, Baby New Year, Doug Ford, education, flip flop, greenbelt, health care, incompetence, New Year, Old Man time, Ontario, peel, reversal, Young Doug Ford

Wednesday November 22, 2023

November 22, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

An environmental group is taking legal action against Premier Doug Ford's government, seeking an injunction to halt the construction of a spa complex on Ontario Place's West Island until a full environmental assessment is conducted, citing concerns about the proposed "mega spa" causing irreversible harm to the naturalized ecosystem by removing approximately 840 trees.

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)

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:

https://mackaycartoons.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023-1122-YDF.mp4
 

 

Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 2023-20, Doug Ford, greenbelt, infrastructure, Ontario, Ontario Place, spa, Toronto, trees, vegetables, Young Doug Ford

Tuesday November 14, 2023

November 14, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Paul Calandra has become crucial to the Ford government, taking swift action to address the Greenbelt scandal, distancing himself from controversies, and attempting to limit damage while navigating potential fallout and a criminal probe.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday November 14, 2023

Calandra’s Political Choreography: Mopping Up Ford’s Greenbelt Fallout

Young Doug Ford: The Series

In the intricate political drama surrounding Premier Doug Ford’s Greenbelt scandal, Housing Minister Paul Calandra has emerged as Ford’s cleanup crew and guardian against further erosion of public trust. Taking charge of the scandal-ridden department, Calandra swiftly cleared the decks, ousting most of his predecessor’s staff to set the stage for significant policy reversals.

With the impending release of potentially damaging documents under freedom of information legislation from the era of former minister Steve Clark, Calandra has been on a mission to minimize the fallout for Ford’s government. Distancing himself from Clark, who resigned under a cloud, the new minister reversed controversial changes to municipal boundaries and canceled his predecessor’s alterations to official city plans across various regions.

Analysis: Why it’s getting harder for Doug Ford to sidestep blame for Greenbelt scandal  

This Halloween, the Government of Doug Ford grapples with renewed scrutiny over the Greenbelt scandal, as an unprecedented number of Minister's zoning orders (MZOs) stir concerns of favouritism towards developers, echoing past controversies and prompting calls for increased transparency in the process.

October 31, 2023

The situation, however, remains precarious, as the Mounties’ investigation looms, casting uncertainty over the government’s agenda. Concerns are growing within the Tory ranks that the scandal is becoming a substantial obstacle.

CBC’s report revealing Clark’s involvement in amendments to Hamilton’s official plan, influenced by developer Sergio Manchia, added another layer of complexity. Calandra, in a decisive move, scrapped his predecessor’s changes to official city plans in multiple areas, citing a failure to meet the necessary standards.

Ford’s about-face on the Greenbelt development scheme further heightened the political drama, with Calandra subsequently tabling legislation to prevent future attempts to open up the Greenbelt to development. NDP Leader Marit Stiles, during question period, drew attention to connections between well-connected developer Sergio Manchia and Conservative donors, suggesting preferential treatment in both the Greenbelt issue and a controversial stag and doe party linked to the Conservative fundraising team.

Analysis: Leaked Letter Reveals Ontario Government Scheme to Recruit Small Town Mayors as Lackeys for Forced Sprawl  

September 22, 2023

As the NDP pressed Calandra on the integrity commissioner’s report and Premier Ford’s interactions with Manchia, the minister strategically avoided direct answers, emphasizing the changes at the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

The integrity commissioner’s report painted a damning picture of Clark’s actions, indicating ethical violations and a lack of transparency in decision-making. The Greenbelt fiasco has already claimed the resignations of two ministers and two senior aides, but with an ongoing RCMP criminal probe and additional revelations expected in upcoming FOI documents, the Tories are bracing for further challenges on the horizon. (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:

https://mackaycartoons.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023-1114-YDF.mp4
Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 2023-19, greenbelt, Music, Ontario, Paul Calandra, procreate, Sam the Record Man, scandal, YDF, Young Doug Ford

Tuesday October 31, 2023

October 31, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

This Halloween, the Government of Doug Ford grapples with renewed scrutiny over the Greenbelt scandal, as an unprecedented number of Minister's zoning orders (MZOs) stir concerns of favouritism towards developers, echoing past controversies and prompting calls for increased transparency in the process.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday October 31, 2023

The Lingering Spector of Corruption and the Ghastly Haunt of the Greenbelt Scandal on Ontario’s Government

December 10, 2020

As Halloween casts its eerie shadows, the spector of corruption looms ever closer for Premier Doug Ford and his government, showcasing a pattern of questionable Minister’s zoning orders (MZOs) that intensify the ghostly presence of the Greenbelt scandal. The recent scrutiny sheds light on how the Ford administration expedited approvals for rezoning, particularly benefiting developers linked to the controversial Greenbelt land swaps.

The surge in MZOs, an astounding 110 since 2019 compared to the mere 18 issued by previous governments, raises deep concerns. These orders, executed by the stroke of a pen, circumvent public consultation and alter local planning rules, potentially increasing the value of select properties. The opposition’s concerns have validity: a disproportionately high number of MZOs seem to favour a select few, including individuals linked to the Ford family.

News: 18 MZOs given to developers who were guests at Premier Ford’s family wedding: NDP  

October 22, 2022

The optics of MZOs benefiting guests from a Ford family wedding reception, especially when compared to the entire tenure of the previous Liberal government, indicate a troublesome trend. The association between certain developers, their relationships with the government, and the number of MZOs they’ve received present a disconcerting pattern. This intertwining web raises serious questions about conflicts of interest and the fair distribution of these orders.

February 16, 2023

The opacity and lack of transparency surrounding the MZOs amplify suspicions of unfairness and favouritism. The alarming findings by the auditor general highlight that nearly 40% of the MZOs benefited a handful of development companies, evoking criticisms of conflict of interest.

Moreover, the cozy connections between the Ford family and individuals receiving these MZOs paint a worrying picture. The associations and benefits granted to friends and close allies of the Premier imply an inappropriate confluence of personal relationships and public governance. The convergence of interests between the government’s actions and the well-being of specific individuals or groups exacerbates concerns of impropriety.

News: RCMP to start interviews in Doug Ford’s Greenbelt scandal this week: Sources 

October 31, 2012

The government’s defensive stance, justifying MZOs as tools to expedite housing and alleviate bureaucratic hurdles, seems increasingly feeble in the face of mounting evidence suggesting a different narrative—one of favouritism and expedited benefits for a select few.

As the haunted tale of the Greenbelt scandal refuses to fade, and revelations continue to surface, Ontario’s government needs to address the widening shadows of suspicion. The clamour for transparency, fairness, and ethical governance in the use of MZOs grows louder and demands an immediate and thorough review. The ghostly echoes of past scandals must not be allowed to haunt Ontario’s governance any longer, and a definitive course correction is imperative to restore public trust and integrity. (AI)

 

Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 2023-18, corruption, Doug Ford, greenbelt, Halloween, horror, land swap, mzo, Ontario, Queen's Park, scandal, Texas Chain Saw Massacre, zoning
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