McGuinty Should Practice What He Preaches on Democratic Reform

Toronto: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation welcomed the Ontario government's tabling of democratic renewal legislation, but questioned the sincerity of the announcement given Premier Dalton McGuinty's refusal to consult voters in a province-wide referendum before raising personal income taxes in 2004.

"This is a positive step, and the government is to be commended for consulting the people of Ontario on this important issue," said CTF Ontario Director Tasha Kheiriddin. "Yet it is hypocritical that Premier McGuinty would commit to a referendum on electoral reform and not hold one on tax increases. If he believes so strongly in democracy, why didn't he go to the people last year before breaking both his election promise and the spirit of the Taxpayer Protection Act "

The Election Statute Law Amendment Act 2005 includes the establishment of a citizens' assembly and jury that will explore new ways of electing members of provincial Parliament, and revisit political spending and contribution limits. The government's news release did not mention whether recall legislation will be one of the options put before the assembly. Recall legislation already exists in British Columbia. In Ontario, Opposition MPP Jim Flaherty introduced a private member's bill on the subject earlier this session.

"For this process to be truly democratic, the government must put all accountability mechanisms before the citizens' assembly, including that of recall legislation. To leave it off the table will deny voters the ability to hold politicians accountable between elections," said Kheiriddin. "We hope Mr. McGuinty will practice what he preaches and explore all aspects of democratic reform."