Toronto: Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) Ontario Director John Williamson reacted to Wednesday's Speech from the Throne delivered in the Legislative Assembly at Queen's Park.

"This Throne Speech struck the right notes. It promised to pass in the legislature the tax breaks outlined in the recent budget. In addition, the Ontario government is undertaking to reduce taxes, balance the budget and reduce debt in the years ahead," said Mr. Williamson. "Taxpayers can expect another tax relief schedule to be announced before the next election. That is very good news."

The Speech from the Throne outlined the priorities of the Ontario government. They include:
 

• Strengthening the economy;
   
• Improving health care;
   
• Reforming education;
   
• Making government more accountable; and
   
• Fighting crime.

"This session of the legislation will be packed with bills and policy announcements," said Williamson. "I don't believe today's Throne Speech will upset many voters, but nor will it ensure the government's re-election. To win at the ballot box, the Conservatives will need to re-commit to the fundamentals voters twice elected them to enact. Namely, modest tax relief combined with even-handed spending increases and debt-repayment."