Legislature – mackaycartoons

Thursday August 15, 2024

August 15, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday August 15, 2024

Doug Ford’s Government: For the People or For the Developers?

June 25, 2024

The Ontario Greenbelt scandal has cast a long shadow over the Ford government’s claims of transparency and public interest. While the premier and his ministers insist they are “an open book,” recent actions suggest a different narrative—one where the voices of developers ring louder than those of everyday citizens.

The Greenbelt was created to protect our environment and curb urban sprawl, yet the Ford government attempted to remove 7,400 acres for housing development. The Auditor General’s report revealed that developers with close ties to Ford’s party were favoured, potentially inflating property values by billions. This has led many to question whether the government’s actions were truly in the public’s interest or driven by a desire to benefit political friends.

News: As RCMP investigates Greenbelt scandal, finance minister says Ford government is ‘an open book’

January 23, 2024

Adding to the controversy is the “Cutting Red Tape to Build More Homes Act,” which eliminated third-party appeals in planning processes. This move has effectively silenced the public’s voice, removing a critical check on municipal planning and zoning decisions. The language of “cutting red tape” and “building more homes faster” masks a more troubling reality: the reduction of democratic participation in favour of expediency and the interests of developers.

Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy’s assertion that the government is transparent does little to alleviate concerns. The secrecy surrounding mandate letters and the unwillingness to fully disclose communications adds to the perception of a government more interested in protecting its own than in serving its constituents.

Opinion: Doug Ford has to make it clear: Is he for the people or for the developers?

February 16, 2023

The RCMP’s investigation into the Greenbelt scandal is a step towards accountability, but it is ultimately up to the people of Ontario to pass judgment on their leaders. In a province where voter turnout is often low, there is a real risk that such dubious behaviour might go unchecked. Apathy and disengagement could allow the Ford government to continue down a path that prioritizes developer interests over those of the people it was elected to serve.

October 22, 2022

The housing crisis in Ontario is a pressing issue, but it cannot be solved by sidelining public input and eroding trust in government. True leadership requires listening to constituents, balancing diverse needs, and fostering inclusive growth. The Ford government must decide whether it wants to be remembered as a champion for the people or as a facilitator for the few. The choice should be clear, but recent actions have cast a long shadow of doubt. As the investigation unfolds and elections loom, it is up to informed voters to make their voices heard and demand better from their leaders. (AI)

Friday May 10, 2024

May 10, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday May 10, 2024

Unraveling Bias: Why Ontario’s Kaffiyeh Ban is a Stitch in Time

April 24, 2024

In a legislative arena often fraught with partisan wrangling and grandstanding, one would expect clarity and consistency in the application of rules. However, the recent uproar over the ban on wearing kaffiyehs in the Ontario Legislature has exposed a glaring double standard, begging for a rational reconsideration.

At the heart of the matter lies the fundamental right to express one’s identity and beliefs, a cornerstone of democratic societies. Garments, whether adorned with political symbols or cultural significance, serve as tangible expressions of these beliefs. Just as a maple leaf pin proudly worn by a Canadian parliamentarian signifies patriotism, so too does a kaffiyeh worn by a member of the Palestinian diaspora represent solidarity with a cause.

Toronto Star: Kaffiyeh ban at Queen’s Park has been a needless distraction. It should be reversed

July 12, 2019

It’s worth noting the longstanding precedent within the Ontario Legislature itself. Political parties have historically displayed their colours through attire without censure. Liberal premiers sporting red ties, Progressive Conservative MPPs donning blue, or NDP members proudly wearing orange—these are accepted as manifestations of political affiliation. To arbitrarily single out the kaffiyeh as “overtly political” while allowing other forms of expression is not justifiable, but rather smacks of bias.

Moreover, this ban undermines the rich tapestry of cultural diversity that defines Ontario. The kaffiyeh, with its centuries-old tradition among Palestinians, holds profound cultural significance beyond its political connotations. It’s akin to denying the Scottish parliamentarian his kilt or the Sikh legislator his turban—a suppression of cultural identity under the guise of maintaining decorum.

Opinion: Of course the keffiyeh is political. But it still shouldn’t be banned from Ontario’s legislature

July 19, 2019

Speaker Ted Arnott’s decree, while perhaps well-intentioned, reflects a myopic view of what constitutes political expression. In a world where symbols evolve and context matters, clinging rigidly to outdated notions of neutrality risks stifling meaningful dialogue and understanding.

In light of these considerations, it’s imperative for Speaker Arnott to reassess his stance. A reversal of the ban on kaffiyehs would not only uphold the principles of free expression and cultural diversity but also signal a commitment to fairness and inclusivity within the legislative chamber. After all, in the mosaic of Ontario’s democracy, every thread—be it red, blue, orange, or patterned with the iconic black-and-white of the kaffiyeh—contributes to the vibrant tapestry of our shared identity. (AI)

Saturday October 21, 2023

October 21, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday October 21, 2023

Playing the Blame Game in Ontario’s Legislature: Politicizing the Middle East Conflict

November 20, 2012

In recent days, the Ontario provincial legislature has become an unexpected battleground for opinions and stances on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. While it is not unusual for elected officials to express their views on international matters, the situation in Ontario has taken a concerning turn. Rather than fostering dialogue, cooperation, and prioritizing moral leadership, some politicians have chosen to play a game of polarization that goes beyond their jurisdiction and does little to contribute to global peace and understanding.

Opinion: Battered by the Greenbelt scandal, Doug Ford can thank the NDP for changing the channel

May 16, 2007

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Progressive Conservative House Leader Paul Calandra have drawn sharp lines, explicitly siding with Israel and condemning Hamas in a debate that goes far beyond their roles as provincial leaders. While it is understandable that individuals may have strong personal opinions on global issues, using their positions to push such divisive viewpoints is a dangerous path.

In a legislature session, Premier Ford condemned Hamas’s attack on Israel in strong terms, stating, “Oct. 7th was a tragic day. For Israel, for the Jewish people, for the entire peace-loving world.” His words resonate with many, but they are not the domain of a provincial leader. Such matters fall under the purview of federal and international authorities. It’s crucial that we remind our provincial politicians that their primary responsibility is to the people of Ontario, not to take sides in international conflicts that are far from resolved.

July 16, 2021

The polarization deepened when the Ontario legislature passed a motion to condemn Hamas and affirm Israel’s right to defend itself. While the motion was supported by Progressive Conservative and Liberal MPPs, the NDP abstained, attempting to amend the motion with calls for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid to Gaza. This political maneuvering only reinforces the idea that provincial politics should not entangle themselves in complex international conflicts, but should rather focus on issues within their own mandate.

The situation escalated further as the legislature considered a motion to censure NDP MPP Sarah Jama for her social media post related to the conflict. While her comments are certainly divisive, attempting to silence an elected representative is a drastic step that should be used with great caution. The public discourse should remain open and respectful, even when discussing contentious topics.

News: NDP MPP Sarah Jama accuses Doug Ford of libeling her and demands an apology

June 20, 2019

Furthermore, the cease-and-desist letter issued by Jama to Premier Ford underscores the divisive nature of the debate. Accusations of defamation and labeling individuals as racists and supporters of terrorism are not conducive to constructive dialogue. Such actions divert the attention away from addressing the root causes of the Middle East conflict and instead create an atmosphere of hostility.

January 15, 2002

In these tumultuous times, it’s essential that our provincial leaders prioritize their primary responsibilities, which include addressing the needs and concerns of Ontarians. Playing the blame game in international conflicts only serves to further polarize our communities and undermines the principles of dialogue, cooperation, and moral leadership. Ontario’s elected officials should remember that their role is to represent the interests of the people of Ontario, and their actions on the international stage should be measured, respectful, and conducive to peaceful coexistence. (AI)

Thursday March 23, 2023

March 23, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday March 23, 2023

Greenbelt Paper

Premier Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservatives will table a provincial budget Thursday that is expected to eclipse the $200-billion mark for first time in Ontario history.

April 29, 2022

Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy, who will unveil his fiscal blueprint at 4 p.m. in the Ontario legislature, said it would be “a plan that will support families, support workers, support businesses today while laying a strong fiscal foundation for future generations.”

It is expected to include new investments in health care — thanks to the recent federal infusion of additional transfer payments — as well for training and education programs.

On Wednesday, Bethlenfalvy said the budget would include some $780 million in tax breaks for manufacturers over the next three years to encourage companies to invest in new buildings, machinery and equipment. (The Toronto Star)

Meanwhile, Doug Ford says an environmental study the federal government is reportedly planning on launching shouldn’t slow down work to develop housing on lands the province recently removed from the Greenbelt.

Federal Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault has previously voiced concerns about Ford removing about 7,400 acres from 15 different areas in the protected Greenbelt lands, while adding more parcels elsewhere, in order to build 50,000 homes.

February 16, 2023

The Toronto Star reports today that Guilbeault is set to announce he is launching a study to assess the biodiversity, ecological connectivity and other natural features in Rouge National Urban Park, which is next to part of the Greenbelt lands earmarked for housing.

Ford says he was not given a head’s up on the announcement by Guilbeault’s office, but he is “not too concerned about it” because the park is adjacent to land set to be developed, not part of it.

Ontario’s auditor general is conducting a value-for-money audit of the financial and environmental implications of the Greenbelt development plans, which are part of the government’s efforts to get 1.5 million homes built in 10 years.

The province’s integrity commissioner is also investigating a complaint from the incoming NDP leader into what she calls the “curious timing of recent purchases of Greenbelt land by powerful landowners with donor and political ties to the Ontario PC Party.” (CTV)

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 …

Tuesday August 9, 2022

August 9, 2022 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday August 9, 2022

Ontario legislature session begins as Doug Ford’s government pushes ahead with new mandate

Young Doug Ford: The Series

Opposition parties and critics are calling on the Ontario government to provide more relief to tackle rising inflation while also expediting solutions for hospital staffing woes when the legislature returns and the provincial budget is tabled this week.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservative government will again table its 2022-23 budget on Tuesday, originally introduced in April and put to the test as a main plank of the PC platform during the June election.

After being re-elected, Mr. Ford said the budget would remain largely intact with the addition of a 5-per-cent increase to Ontario Disability Support Program rates that the party campaigned on, as well as a pledge to tie future annual increases to inflation. The budget promises $4-billion in additional spending for highways and roads and $10-billion for hospital infrastructure over 10 years.

August 3, 2022

But with the cost of living on the rise, inflation surging over 8 per cent and hospitals facing significant staffing shortages, critics say more measures need to be introduced to provide support for Ontarians.

Official Opposition NDP interim leader Peter Tabuns said Friday his party is calling for a new budget that increases spending for health care and education, as well as raises wages for public-sector workers. Mr. Tabuns said this would mean repealing Bill 124, introduced by the government in 2019, capping public-sector wage increases at 1 per cent for a three-year contract period. (The Globe & Mail)