QUEEN’S PARK – Marit Stiles, the Leader of the Official Opposition NDP, issued the following statement on the announcement of a new deal for Toronto to support the city’s essential public services, transit, and housing:
“Toronto needed a new deal, and Mayor Chow got it. She inherited a huge mess from a Conservative mayor who drove the city’s finances into a ditch. And now she has managed to get the Premier to come to the table and negotiate a new deal for Toronto.
“There is no doubt that municipalities across the province, including Toronto, have been struggling. For years, Ford’s Conservatives wanted Ontarians to believe that this was the best deal municipalities can get but we knew a better deal was possible.
"For years, the Ontario NDP has advocated for a new deal for Toronto to ensure a stable and reliable funding stream for vital services like housing, transit, and public health. Our Toronto MPPs have been steadfast in their support for a new deal because the city deserves a provincial partner that is invested in the city’s success.”
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Bhutila Karpoche (Parkdale—High Park), Official Opposition NDP critic for GTA issues:
“This is long overdue. Increased funding for transit and taking responsibility for the two major highways going through the city will ensure that Toronto can get back to focusing on providing essential public services and plan for transit and housing growth.”
Jeff Burch (Niagara Centre), Official Opposition NDP critic for Municipal Affairs:
“This is a step in the right direction that ensures stable and reliable funding for essential municipal services. Ford’s Conservatives have a track record of short-changing municipalities and leaving them on the hook by downloading provincial costs onto municipalities. We are glad to see Toronto get a sensible new deal that meets the moment. It’s time that Ford steps up to the plate to support struggling municipalities across the province.”