Ontario

Tuesday October 31, 2023

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)

 

Wednesday October 24, 2023

Ontario legislator Sarah Jama has been removed from the New Democratic caucus following controversial comments on the Israel-Hamas conflict, leading to a motion limiting her participation in debates.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday October 24, 2023

Ontario Legislator Removed from Caucus Following Controversial Comments on Israel-Hamas Conflict

June 18, 2021

In a surprising turn of events, a rookie Ontario legislator found herself ousted from the New Democratic caucus on Monday, just moments before Premier Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservatives effectively silenced her in the legislature. The controversy stemmed from comments made by Sarah Jama regarding the Israel-Hamas war, leading to a rift within the party.

News: Sarah Jama ejected from NDP caucus over Israel-Hamas comments: ‘This was undermining our work’  

Initially, NDP leader Marit Stiles stood by Jama after she issued an apology for her initial statement. However, Stiles later revealed that Jama had spoken against a motion in the legislature without prior notification. This lack of transparency and collaboration prompted Stiles to make the difficult decision to remove Jama from the caucus, citing the detrimental impact on the collective work of the Ontario NDP official Opposition.

The Progressive Conservative government seized the opportunity to criticize Jama, introducing a motion that limited her participation in debates but still allowed her to vote. This motion, aimed at preventing distractions, was passed on Monday despite Jama and the New Democrats voting against it.

July 25, 2014

Earlier in the day, Jama took the floor in the legislature to voice her opposition to the motion, accusing the Progressive Conservative government of using it as a diversion tactic. Her statement echoed her previous remarks, which condemned the occupation of Palestine without addressing the Hamas attacks. Jama, who has Palestinian family ties, emphasized the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire and the restoration of essential resources in Gaza.

The situation escalated when Stiles officially expelled Jama from the caucus, citing her lack of transparency and teamwork. Jama declined to comment following the vote. Stiles clarified that Jama’s initial statement had not received approval from the caucus, further exacerbating the internal conflict.

Opinion: Sarah Jama has deprived herself — and her constituents — of a voice in the legislature 

The relentless conflict in Gaza places both Palestinian and Israeli civilians in a dire predicament. As Hamas, responsible for numerous deadly acts against Israel and hostage-taking, triggers a planned offensive by Israel's IDF in northern Gaza City, it is inevitable that innocent civilians will suffer the repercussions.

October 14, 2023

Adding fuel to the fire, Jama sent a cease-and-desist letter to Premier Doug Ford, alleging defamation based on his comments about her statement. Ford’s lawyer quickly responded, denying the defamation claims and emphasizing the premier’s right and obligation to condemn antisemitism and terrorism. The lawyer further asserted that the public has a corresponding right to hear his stance on these significant issues. If Jama proceeds with a lawsuit, Ford’s legal team vows to vigorously defend against it.

The fallout from this incident highlights the delicate nature of discussing sensitive international conflicts within political circles. It also underscores the challenges faced by lawmakers in balancing personal beliefs, party unity, and public expectations. As the dust settles, the Ontario legislature will undoubtedly continue to grapple with the aftermath and seek to restore harmony and focus on the pressing matters at hand. (AI)

Editorial cartoon printed in the Hamilton Spectator and the Toronto Star.

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:

 

Saturday October 21, 2023

 

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and NDP legislator Sarah Jama have become embroiled in a political dispute over their respective stances on the Middle East conflict, with Ford condemning Hamas and Jama issuing a cease-and-desist letter, highlighting concerns of politicians straying into international conflicts.

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)

 

Wednesday October 18, 2023

Premier Doug Ford's recent efforts to protect Ontario's Greenbelt are met with skepticism, as his government's track record, including a shift towards fossil fuels and the cancellation of green energy projects, raises doubts about their commitment to environmental preservation.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday October 18, 2023

Is Doug Ford’s Ploy a Real Greenbelt Reset or Just Smoke and Mirrors?

September 26, 2023

The recent moves by Premier Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservatives to protect the Greenbelt in Ontario might seem like a step in the right direction. However, it’s essential to take a closer look at their motivations and track record. The Ford government’s attempt to curtail the Greenbelt development and regain public trust is nothing more than a cynical ploy to distract from their questionable actions and their approach to renewable energy.

The $8.28-billion land swap scandal, currently under investigation by the RCMP, has left the Tories scrambling to rebuild their tarnished reputation. They’ve introduced a law that promises to restore the Greenbelt properties they previously sought to remove and enhance protections for this ecologically sensitive area. While this might appear as a positive move, it is essential to scrutinize their true intentions.

News: Ontario government tables bill to return lands it removed back to Greenbelt

July 11, 2018

The Ford government has a track record that contradicts their newfound commitment to environmental preservation. They’ve consistently undermined efforts to transition to renewable energy sources while increasing reliance on fossil fuels, particularly natural gas. A recent investigation has revealed that gas plants in Ontario, once promised to operate only during peak electricity demand, are running 12 or more hours a day, contributing to dirtier power and worsening climate change. This not only contradicts their alleged commitment to environmental protection but also raises serious concerns about their energy policy choices.

The government’s decision to scrap over 700 green energy projects as “unnecessary and expensive” is another example of their disregard for clean energy initiatives. Rather than investing in renewable sources, they are opting to build more gas plants, further perpetuating the reliance on fossil fuels. This is a stark departure from the previous government’s approach, which aimed to replace coal-fired pollution machines with gas-fired plants while transitioning to a cleaner energy mix.

Investigation: Ontario gas plants were supposed to run only during peak periods. Instead they’re running most of the time, polluting the air you breathe

October 16, 2020

The solution is clear: Ontario should be investing in renewable energy sources, like wind and solar power, to reduce reliance on gas “peaker plants.” The expansion of renewables, as seen in California and the Midwest, offers a blueprint for a more sustainable energy future. In contrast, Ontario lags behind, with only eight percent of peak demand being met by renewable sources in 2022.

Premier Doug Ford’s current approach to energy and the environment raises concerns similar to the gas plant scandal that marred former Premier Dalton McGuinty’s legacy. Like McGuinty, Ford may come to regret his government’s hasty dismissal of clean energy initiatives that are crucial for Ontario’s future. Instead of using the Greenbelt issue as a smokescreen to divert attention from their actions, the Ford government should prioritize the expansion of renewable energy sources and the reduction of their dependence on fossil fuels. It is only through meaningful actions, not political posturing, that they can be trusted as stewards of the environment. (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:

 

Friday October 13, 2023

Developers whom stood to profit from Doug Ford's Greenbelt development decisions are now anxious as an RCMP investigation unfolds, potentially exposing their wrongdoing, marking a dramatic turn of events for those once favoured in the scandal.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday October 13, 2023

Welcoming the RCMP Investigation: A Turn of Events for Doug Ford’s Greenbelt Developers

September 26, 2023

In a dramatic twist, an RCMP investigation has been launched into Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s controversial plan to open up the Greenbelt for development. Developers who once stood to profit from Ford’s decisions are now anxiously awaiting the outcome, and for those of us who value transparency and accountability in government, this investigation is a welcomed development.

The announcement by the RCMP follows a referral from the Ontario Provincial Police, marking a significant step in the pursuit of justice. The Sensitive and International Investigations (SII) unit, responsible for handling cases that threaten Canada’s political, economic, and social integrity, will be leading the probe. This unit specializes in political investigations, examining elected officials on allegations of fraud, financial crimes, corruption, and breach of trust. Given the gravity of the situation, it is imperative that this investigation unfolds diligently and impartially.

News: Ontario Greenbelt: Canada police probe Doug Ford land deal  

September 22, 2023

The Greenbelt, a protected natural area, was at the centre of controversy last year when the province decided to remove land from its protection in a bid to build 1.5 million homes by 2031. This move faced public outrage and resulted in the resignation of two ministers, as well as investigations by the integrity commissioner and the auditor general. Their findings revealed a flawed process that seemed to favour certain developers, raising questions about potential wrongdoing.

The criminal probe is a significant step forward in seeking answers and justice. The auditor general’s report highlighted that developers could stand to benefit by $8.3 billion from the land swap. While Premier Ford has maintained his confidence that nothing criminal took place, the investigations uncovered a tangled web of questionable actions by government officials.

One focal point of the investigations has been Ryan Amato, the chief of staff to the housing minister at the time. The commissioner’s report and the auditor general’s findings have raised concerns about Amato’s interactions with developers. His resignation in the wake of these findings is a testament to the seriousness of the situation.

The decision to bring the RCMP into the investigation is a critical one, given the need to ensure that the process is free from any perceived conflicts of interest. Premier Ford’s commitment to cooperating fully with the investigation is a step in the right direction.

Opinion: Here’s why an RCMP criminal probe makes Doug Ford’s Greenbelt nightmare so much worse  

December 10, 2022

The opposition, particularly the NDP and the Green Party, welcomes the investigation as a means of obtaining more answers and accountability. They argue that the people of Ontario deserve to know the truth behind these actions, which have the potential to significantly impact the province’s future.

The involvement of the RCMP underscores the gravity of the situation and the need to get to the bottom of what transpired. It is crucial to uphold the integrity of our institutions and ensure that public officials act in the best interests of the people they serve. As the investigation unfolds, we must all keep a close watch on the proceedings and trust in the process to deliver a fair and just outcome.

In the end, the RCMP’s involvement in the Greenbelt land swap scandal is a beacon of hope for those who believe in the importance of transparency, accountability, and ethical governance. It is a chance for justice to prevail, and for the public to have confidence that their interests are protected. The unfolding events serve as a reminder that no one is above the law, and that our democratic institutions must be safeguarded from any undue influence or wrongdoing. (AI)