What to know
- Ontario NDP leader Marit Stiles criticized the Ford government for a 148-day legislative recess, claiming Doug Ford prioritized personal interests over Ontarians.
- Stiles accused Ford of buying a private jet, changing laws to hide his phone records, and making policy decisions harmful to families while the legislature was mostly inactive.
- Interim Liberal leader John Fraser also condemned the extended break, calling it arrogant and a way for the government to avoid accountability.
- Ford defended the recess, saying work continues through committee meetings, ministerial orders, and his ongoing travel to promote Ontario and attract investment.
Ontario NDP leader Marit Stiles is criticizing the Ford government’s decision to send MPPs on a 148-day recess, after spending just 30 days in the legislature.
On Tuesday, Government House Leader Steven Clark confirmed that MPPs will not return to Queen’s Park until Oct. 27, citing concerns that an earlier return could interfere with municipal elections across the province scheduled for Oct. 26.
The 148-day break follows just over seven weeks of legislative sittings and comes after a 14-week winter recess.
Stiles says Ford is prioritizing himself
Stiles sharply criticized the government’s move in a statement to Now Toronto.
“Doug Ford spent that time buying himself a private jet and changing the law to hide his phone records,” Stiles said. “While we were fighting to make life affordable for Ontario families, Doug Ford gutted OSAP, voted against banning surveillance pricing, and opposed scrapping the HST on food.”
Stiles added that Ford has the choice between helping himself and helping Ontarians, and claims he chose himself.
“While the people of Ontario are choosing between groceries, gas, and rent, Doug Ford was focused on wasting taxpayer dollars,” she said.
Interim Liberal leader also criticizes Ford
Interim Liberal leader John Fraser echoed the criticism, calling the extended recess an example of poor leadership.
“That is not leadership. It is arrogant. It is entitled. The people who elected us sent us here to work for them, not to disappear for nearly half a year,” Fraser said.
He added that the government appears intent on avoiding scrutiny.
“It wants to avoid accountability and avoid explaining why taxpayers are being asked to foot the bill for its secrecy, scandals, and luxurious lifestyle,” Fraser said.
Ford defends decision
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Ford defended the recess, saying a break does not mean he won’t be working.
“My schedule is constantly jammed,” Ford said, noting he will continue to travel throughout the summer, including several trips to the United States focused on promoting Ontario and attracting investment.
Ford added that even during an extended recess, committees continue to sit, and the government can pass measures through ministerial orders.
