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Thursday June 15, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday June 15, 2023

Ready to Shake Up Ontario Politics and Unseat Ford’s Arrogance

Young Doug Ford: The Series

Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie’s official campaign launch to become the leader of the Ontario Liberal Party has injected a much-needed energy and experience into the race. With her impressive track record and the overwhelming support she has received, Crombie is poised to become a formidable challenger to Premier Doug Ford and his increasingly arrogant government.

Crombie’s decision to enter the leadership race comes at a crucial time for the Ontario Liberal Party. After a disappointing performance in the last provincial election, where they secured only eight seats and failed to gain official party status, the Liberals have been desperately searching for a leader who can reinvigorate the party and bring it back to its former glory.

News: Bonnie Crombie officially enters race for Ontario Liberal leadership  

March 7, 2023

With the resignation of former leader Steven Del Duca following the 2022 election, the Liberals were left without a clear path forward. Del Duca’s campaign centered on affordability but failed to resonate with voters. It became evident that the party needed a fresh face and a new approach to connect with Ontarians.

Enter Bonnie Crombie. As a former Liberal MP and the current mayor of Mississauga since 2014, Crombie brings a wealth of political experience and a proven ability to lead. Her centrist political style, focused on addressing what’s broken, resonates with voters who are tired of partisan politics and empty promises.

During her campaign launch, Crombie wasted no time in highlighting the failures of the Ford government. She pointed out the crisis in healthcare, the underfunding of education, and the disregard for the environment. Crombie’s ability to articulate the concerns of Ontarians and offer tangible solutions sets her apart from other candidates in the race.

May 30, 2023

Moreover, Crombie’s unwavering commitment to protecting the Greenbelt and Ontario Place demonstrates her dedication to preserving Ontario’s natural spaces. Her opposition to the government’s decision to open up these areas to developers shows a strong stance on environmental issues that matter to the people.

Crombie’s focus on inclusivity and collaboration is another aspect that sets her apart. She acknowledges the importance of working with healthcare workers, educators, Indigenous Peoples, and municipalities, rather than alienating them, as the Ford government has done. Her ability to build bridges and foster partnerships will be essential in restoring trust and confidence in the Ontario Liberal Party.

News: Bonnie Crombie attacks Doug Ford as ‘just plain wrong’ in launching Liberal leadership bid  

Premier Doug Ford himself has acknowledged Crombie’s strength as a candidate, quipping, “What took you so long?” His remark is a testament to the impact Crombie has already made on the political landscape. Ford recognizes that she poses a significant threat and is prepared to engage in a spirited battle should she secure the Liberal leadership.

May 24, 2023

With her commitment to maintaining her role as mayor while campaigning for the leadership, Crombie showcases her dedication to serving the people of Mississauga and Ontario simultaneously. Her willingness to work tirelessly, campaigning on weeknights and weekends, demonstrates her work ethic and commitment to public service.

As the Ontario Liberals gear up for the leadership vote in November, it is clear that Bonnie Crombie has emerged as the frontrunner. Her experience, energy, and ability to connect with Ontarians make her the best candidate to lead the party to victory in the next provincial election. Crombie’s vision for a more inclusive and prosperous Ontario stands in stark contrast to the arrogance and divisiveness of the Ford government. Under her leadership, the Ontario Liberal Party can reclaim its position as a strong, progressive force and offer a brighter future for all Ontarians. (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 editorial cartooning a try:

Wednesday April 19, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday April 19, 2023

Stephen Lecce’s Education Agenda Fails Ontario’s Students

November 2, 2022

As Ontario’s education minister, Stephen Lecce has been pushing for a “back to basics” approach in the province’s schools, emphasizing reading, writing, and math. However, his recent introduction of legislation that gives him greater control over school boards and sets student achievement priorities has been met with criticism and skepticism from educators, parents, and unions alike.

One of the main concerns is that Lecce’s approach fails to address the real issues plaguing Ontario’s schools. The overcrowded classrooms, understaffed schools, and crumbling infrastructure are serious problems that require immediate attention. Instead of addressing these pressing concerns, Lecce seems more focused on standardized test scores as a measure of success, which critics argue is narrow and limited in its scope.

News: Doug Ford government sets sights on Ontario’s school system  

July 29, 2022

Lecce’s emphasis on standardized test scores as the sole measure of student achievement is shortsighted and fails to recognize the holistic nature of education. Education is not just about reading, writing, and math; it’s about fostering critical thinking skills, creativity, problem-solving, and social-emotional development. By narrowing the focus solely on test scores, Lecce is neglecting the broader needs of students and ignoring the importance of a well-rounded education.

Moreover, Lecce’s approach of “government overreach” and greater control over school boards is worrisome. Critics argue that local school boards and educators are better positioned to understand the unique needs of their students and communities, and imposing top-down mandates from the government may not be the most effective solution. The move to standardize training for trustees and board officials, as well as performance appraisals for directors of education, may not necessarily lead to improved outcomes for students, and it may further erode local autonomy in education decision-making.

August 6, 2020

Furthermore, the funding increase of 2.7 per cent announced by Lecce for the next academic year falls short of meeting the needs of Ontario’s schools. With overcrowded classrooms and understaffed schools, students are not receiving the attention and support they need to succeed. The recent hiring of 1,000 teachers for specialized math and literacy programs is a positive step, but it may not be enough to address the larger systemic issues facing Ontario’s education system.

Another concern is the proposed use of surplus school board properties for housing. While affordable housing is an important issue, repurposing school properties may not be the most effective solution. Schools are essential community spaces that provide a safe and inclusive environment for learning, and repurposing them for other purposes may have long-term consequences for students and communities.

March 19, 2019

It’s also worth noting that Lecce’s approach fails to acknowledge the existing efforts and achievements of Ontario’s schools. The province’s education system has been recognized as one of the top-performing systems nationally and internationally, as stated by the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario. While there is always room for improvement, Lecce’s overhaul of the education system seems unnecessary and lacking in a clear vision for the future.

In conclusion, Stephen Lecce’s approach to education in Ontario falls short of addressing the real issues facing schools. The emphasis on standardized test scores, government overreach, and lack of adequate funding and support for schools and students are significant concerns. Instead of focusing on narrow measures of success, Lecce should prioritize addressing the overcrowded classrooms, understaffed schools, and crumbling infrastructure that hinder student learning. Ontario’s education system needs a comprehensive and holistic approach that takes into account the diverse needs of students and communities, and empowers local educators and school boards to make informed decisions. It’s time for Lecce to listen to the concerns of educators, parents, and students, and work towards meaningful solutions that truly benefit Ontario’s schools. (AI)

 

Wednesday November 2, 2022

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday November 2, 2022

Ontario government’s wrecking ball negotiating tactic not an answer

Prior to the last province-wide crisis in education, Mike Harris government education minister John Snobelen promised to make changes in Ontario’s education policy by “creating a crisis.”

July 29, 2022

Sadly, it looks like Doug Ford and his education minister, Stephen Lecce, are planning to do the same thing. This week, rather than continuing bargaining with Canadian Union of Public Employees education workers, the province passed a back-to-work law before a job action could begin, imposed an non-negotiated contract arbitrarily, and promised to use the notwithstanding clause of Canada’s constitution to fend off any legal challenges.

Why? Lecce says it is in response to CUPE’s having given strike notice that job action could — not would — start as early as this Friday. The sledgehammer approach is needed to guarantee “stability” in education, says Lecce.

That’s a red herring. In the event of job action, Hamilton public schools will remain open. In Halton, schools will move to alternative scheduling to allow for adequate cleaning. And the Hamilton Catholic board has said it would close schools.

October 20, 2021

Clearly, denying collective bargaining to education assistants, custodians, early childhood educators and office staff wasn’t destined to close all schools as Lecce claims. So just what is the government’s agenda? Will it do the same when crunch-time comes while bargaining with teachers? Does the government intend to take away bargaining rights from all education workers?

CUPE education workers, 70 per cent of whom are women, are the lowest paid in the school system. On average, they earn $39,000 a year. With inflation, they have seen real wage reduction of more than 10 per cent. CUPE is seeking 11.7 per cent increases.

We’re not judging whether that increase is justified or not, or whether the province’s offer, closer to 1 per cent, is remotely fair. That’s what negotiations are for, including mediation and ultimately arbitration.

But prematurely neutering the bargaining process by declaring any job action illegal is not fair, ethical or wise.

August 20, 2012

The last government that tried imposing a contract on education workers was the McGuinty Liberal government. In 2016, Justice Thomas Lederer of the Ontario Superior Court said of that imposition: “When reviewed in the context of the Charter and the rights it provides, it becomes apparent that the process engaged in was fundamentally flawed. It could not, by its design, provide meaningful collective bargaining.”

The Ford government clearly anticipated a similar finding, and is already prepared to use the notwithstanding clause — the constitution’s nuclear option — to ignore any legal ruling. That is an abuse of the intention of the clause.

Consider the words of federal Justice Minister David Lametti, who is looking at how Ottawa could challenge the province’s use of the notwithstanding clause.

June 11, 2021

“It de facto means that people’s rights are being infringed and it’s being justified using the notwithstanding clause,” he said. “Using it pre-emptively is exceedingly problematic. It cuts off both political debate and judicial scrutiny.”

The fact that the province has already decided to use the nuclear option also suggests it knows full well it is violating the constitutional rights of education workers. Otherwise it wouldn’t need to rely on the notwithstanding clause prior to any adjudication. We should be concerned that our government is knowingly violating the rights of 55,000 Ontarians, including thousands in Hamilton and Halton.

No one wants schools closed. No one wants an education strike. But are we willing to accept accomplishing those objectives by force, taking a wrecking ball to the collective bargaining process?

If we are, we would be wise to ask ourselves: Who, and what, is next? (Hamilton Spectator Editorial) 

 

Wednesday May 6, 2021

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday May 6, 2021

NACI is right about AstraZeneca. It shouldn’t be ‘unsettling’ to trust the public with uncomfortable information

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization is being pilloried for asserting that, while taking the AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson vaccine is still generally a good idea, their higher risk for blood clots means that certain Canadians would be better served by waiting for a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

December 11, 2020

Despite high-level accusations that the message is “misleading” or even “dangerous,” NACI is right: Different vaccines obviously carry different risks, and it would be irresponsible not to weigh those risks against the risk of contracting COVID-19. The only reason NACI’s messaging sounds “mixed” or “unsettling” is because Canadian public health authorities have spent this pandemic strenuously avoiding nuance or even the basic notion that the public can be trusted with uncomfortable information.

The controversy began over NACI’s latest vaccine recommendations saying that they “preferentially recommend” mRNA vaccines such as the Pfizer and Moderna shots. NACI drew the distinction because of emerging data showing that, in rare instances, viral vector vaccines such as AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson can potentially pose a risk of blood clots. On Tuesday night, for instance, Alberta confirmed the death of a woman in her 50s due to complications from the AstraZeneca vaccine.

For most Canadians, the life-saving benefits of COVID immunity clearly outstrip any blood clotting risks posed by a viral vector shot. Nevertheless, while NACI said that Canada should continue to roll out as many vaccines as quickly as possible, there may be instances, particularly among young people, in which it’s preferable to sit out the immediate prospect of an AstraZeneca shot in favour of a Pfizer shot down the road.

January 30, 2021

“NACI cautions that in age groups younger than 30 years of age, the benefit of offering a viral vector COVID-19 vaccine instead of waiting for an mRNA vaccine is not a certainty, especially in areas of very low COVID-19 activity,” reads the new recommendations, which also say that “an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine should be preferentially offered to individuals” over 30 unless they prefer to get vaccinated earlier.

David Naylor, a co-chair of the COVID-19 Immunity Task Force, told CBC on Tuesday morning that it was an “unsettling” message because it “suggests that you got the second-best vaccine.” Infectious disease specialist Abdu Sharkawy tweeted that it was “dangerous” to imply “vaccine superiority.”

While many public health agencies have been free to take a single-minded focus on COVID-19 prevention to the exclusion of other health considerations, NACI’s mission has always been to maximize the benefits of immunization while weighing its potential harms. In NACI’s own words, their mission is to assess “how best to use authorized vaccines to achieve the greatest public health benefits.”

March 31, 2021

Over the last 13 months, Canada has gotten used to public health authorities prescribing blunt pandemic restrictions with little to no explanation as to why. Seldom has a chief medical officer ever gone on TV to explain the latest science on outdoor transmission and then asked their citizens to decide for themselves if a BBQ with friends is worth the risk.

NACI’s approach is different. Rather than follow Ottawa’s line to “take whatever vaccine is offered to you first”, they told the truth: Despite mass immunization being the single most effective way to save lives and end this pandemic, it doesn’t mean every AstraZeneca shot is a good idea.

In saying this, NACI didn’t issue an unequivocal “yay” or “nay” on the safety of AstraZeneca, they instead drafted a detailed risk-assessment to allow the public to figure out for themselves if AstraZeneca now is preferable to Pfizer later. You’re middle-aged and living in a hard-hit area with overwhelmed hospitals? Take the shot. You’re 21, living in Prince Edward Island and you barely leave the house? It might be worth waiting for Pfizer or Moderna.

December 1, 2020

NACI is certainly not an antivax organization. The group is composed of volunteer medical experts who have spent decades studying effective immunization. It was NACI who was instrumental in recommending the four-month gap between vaccine doses that has allowed Canada to maximize its limited supply and significantly push forward the national timeline towards herd immunity.

In a pandemic that has repeatedly seen politicians urge the public to “listen to the science,” NACI is the Platonic ideal of career scientists making recommendations without worrying about political narratives.

And yet, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is now openly telling Canadians to ignore the NACI recommendation and take the first shot they are offered.

New Brunswick education minister Dominic Cardy took it a step farther, telling his constituents Tuesday to “ignore NACI, ignore anti-masker, ignore the people undermining the faith in science.” (National Post) 

 

Saturday July 25, 2020

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday July 25, 2020

Announcement coming next week for plan to reopen Ontario schools

January 31, 2020

Education Minister Stephen Lecce says that the government is “finalizing the health protocols” for the resumption of school in September and that an announcement could be coming as soon as next week on what it will look like.

Back in June the Ford government asked school boards to prepare three separate plans for the resumption of classes – online learning only, a hybrid model with children attending classes in-person on alternating days or weeks and the fulltime resumption of in-person instruction.

The boards still have until Aug. 4 to submit those plans but Lecce revealed on Thursday that an announcement could be coming before then on the various regulations and rules that schools will have to follow.

April 30, 2020

A spokesperson for the education minister later clarified to CP24 that the announcement will pertain to “consistent standards” that will be put in place at schools across Ontario on things like seating arrangements and the wearing of masks.

The decision as to which model a particular board follows will still be left with local public health officials, the spokesperson said.

“We are finalizing the health protocols and working very closely with the Chief Medical Officer of Health and some of the best pediatric minds in the nation that are informing the plan,” Lecce said during a press conference in Brampton. “We believe we will be able to unveil it next week. That will include additional supports and resources to enable our boards to succeed.”

May 26, 2020

Lecce initially said that individual school boards would be able to choose which plan they want to follow based on the risk posed by COVID-19 to their communities.

Premier Doug Ford has since said that he wants students to return to school fulltime in September provided it is safe to do so.

Yesterday, Ford said the public should be open to unorthodox ideas to keep kids safe, such as holding class outdoors.

Life in a Pandemic

“The premier and the government continue to be focused on a safe, conventional, day-to-day return to school,” Lecce said Thursday. “Maybe a new conventional where kids still can go to school five days a week.” (CTV)