While many people are winding down for a bit of relaxation this July, Ontario’s new Government under Premier Doug Ford has just received the mantle of provincial leadership. Premier Ford and his team will be working through the summer to begin implementing the changes that were promised during the recent election campaign including the dismantling of Ontario’s Cap & Trade program, a reduction in corporate and small business tax rates, a value for money audit of all government programs, cutting the aviation fuel tax for Northern Ontario, and cancelling the increase of minimum wage to $15 per hour on January 1, 2019.
Over the past two weeks, we have been collaborating with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce in the preparation of letters to each new Cabinet Minister to outline the priorities of business. In addition, we will continue regular conversations with our two local Members of Provincial Parliament to inform them of the needs and concerns of our Chamber membership.
These are challenging times as business faces economic uncertainty and an increasing regulatory and tax burden. We look forward to working with the Government, Opposition Leaders, and our local MPP’s to help strengthen business competitiveness, foster job creation, build healthy communities, and improve government accountability.