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Research Article: In Quest of Institutions that Promote Fiscal Discipline
World Bank research analyzing political constraints to fiscal discipline in large developing countries has recently produced some provocative results on how politics influences fiscal policy. This work is being synthesized to identify a potentially powerful institutional solution to the problem of politically motivated fiscal deficits. Researcher Stuti Khemani presents evidence from India that national ruling parties may have weak incentives for fiscal discipline, even when they lead a majority government, and that transfer of authority for monitoring and regulating subnational finances to the national political executive does not necessarily solve the problem of fiscal discipline in a federation. In a recent online article, Khemani explains these conclusions and comments on the role for and feasibility of independent, non-partisan fiscal agencies to monitor and enforce fiscal rules for greater discipline.
Read feature article ("http://econ.worldbank.org/WBSITE/EXTERNAL/EXTDEC/EXTRESEARCH/EXTPROGRAMS/EXTPUBSERV/0,,contentMDK:20851203~pagePK:64168182~piPK:64168060~theSi
tePK:477916,00.html"
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City Outlines Plans to Remove Coal From Joseph and Gaukel Street Area and Monitor Air Quality Throughout Construction Project
KITCHENER - After months of preparing to undertake one of the most complex road construction projects in recent memory, the major construction work in the area of Joseph and Gaukel streets is set to begin. In recent weeks, crews have been busy preparing the site to begin the major construction work.
In addition to building a new entrance to Victoria Park the project will include a complete streetscape upgrade on Gaukel Street from King Street to Joseph Street, with new lighting, stamped concrete, and other features. The new entrance to the park itself will include stone masonry gates, walkways, new lighting, flower gardens, a pond complete with waterfalls, and a sculpture created by a local artist.
The project also includes the removal of coal tar which has been found underneath portions of Joseph and Gaukel Streets.
In a letter and information package which has been delivered to local residents and businesses, the City of Kitchener outlined its plans to remove the coal tar and monitor the air quality in the project area.
In his letter, the City's Manager of Engineering Infrastructure, Larry Lynch noted, ''I want to assure you that all of the work is being done in consultation with the Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Labour, and that detailed plans and strict procedures have been put in place to ensure the protection of both workers and the public throughout the duration of the project.''
Information on the City's coal tar removal and air quality monitoring plans is available on its website, at: www.city.kitchener.on.ca/gaukelstreetproject.html.
''We are committed to providing neighbourhood residents and businesses with as much information as possible so that we can address any concerns quickly,'' said Lynch earlier today. ''From the very beginning of this project we have been open and upfront about the fact that this work is going to cause an inconvenience in the short-term. In the long-term however, we are creating an aesthetic legacy for downtown Kitchener for generations to come.''
Strong Odour Expected from Coal Tar:
In an effort to prepare residents and businesses for the inevitable strong odour which will result from the coal tar removal, Lynch's letter went on to say, ''As I mentioned at both public meetings for this project, there will be a strong odour, similar to the smell of mothballs or camping fuel, during the excavation of the coal tar. Please be assured that we have specific plans in place to do everything we can to minimize the odour as much as possible. It is important to remember that not all odours are hazardous.''
Air Quality Monitoring:
The City of Kitchener has hired an experienced consultant to monitor air quality through a variety of real-time and laboratory testing methods whenever work is being done with the coal tar. Air quality inside the limits of the wood fencing around the project area will be monitored for the health and safety of workers.
Air quality will also be monitored outside the wood fencing in neighbourhood areas downwind of the construction area to ensure the health and safety of nearby neighbours, businesses and pedestrians. If the air quality is ever found to exceed the very strict environmental limits prescribed by the Ministry of the Environment, the work will be stopped until conditions have changed or until an alternative method can be used.
Health and Safety of Project Workers:
Lynch's letter informed residents that, ''Coal tar has been shown to cause adverse health effects in workers who are exposed to significant concentrations for long periods of time, such as people working in the fuel and petroleum industry. Our contractor will be implementing measures to ensure that members of the public are not exposed to such conditions.''
Once the coal tar removal begins, workers inside the wood fencing will be wearing protective suits and respirators as required by the Ministry of Labour. Those workers, unlike the general public, will be working directly with the coal tar over an extended period of time.
Contacting the City About This Project
In addition to regular mailings to local business and residents and frequent updates to its website, the City of Kitchener has also established a project office in the former KOR Gallery building which will be open and staffed Monday to Friday between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm. A dedicated phone line has also been established for any inquiries about the project and will be forward to a live person 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the case of an emergency. The public phone number is (519) 741-2311.
This multi-phased project is currently expected to take until October. After all of that construction work has been completed on the roadways and the entrance to Victoria Park, in early 2007 the City will begin an environmental remediation program to remove coal tar which has been found on the former Canada Post site at 44 Gaukel Street.
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Kitchener City Council Achieves Zero Per Cent Municipal Property Tax Increase for 2006
KITCHENER - After re-opening the City's 2006 budget and examining several options on where to allocate a higher than excepted surplus from 2005, earlier this evening, Kitchener City Council unanimously voted in favour of reducing the City's 2006 property tax increase from 1.65% to zero.
The zero per cent increase - which will save the average Kitchener household $13.83 this year - will be achieved through a one-time adjustment to the property tax rates for 2006. Taxpayers will be notified of the adjustment in an upcoming tax bill insert.
"'When we are dealing with the City's finances it is very important to remember that we are dealing with taxpayers money,'' noted Councillor Michael Galloway, Vice-Chair of the City's Finance and Corporate Services Committee. ''In addition to some of the strategic investments this Council has made in recent years, we can be proud of the fact that we have also achieved something that is very rare among mid to large sized municipalities these days - we have held the line on municipal taxes.''
City Council Reopened 2006 Budget Discussions After Learning of Higher Than Expected Surplus from 2005:
On January 31, Kitchener City Council had originally approved its 2006 budget which included a property tax increase of 1.65%, or $13.83 for an average household. That increase was already the lowest increase of any municipality in the region. By comparison, the City of Waterloo's 2006 property tax increase is 4.07% and Cambridge's is 2.20%.
At the time Council originally approved the budget, staff estimated the 2005 surplus at $1.5 million. In late March, staff presented Council with updated financial statements showing that as a result of new property assessment and strong growth in the community, the 2005 surplus actually came in at $3.36 million - $1.866 million higher than the original estimate. For a comparison, the Region of Waterloo had originally estimated a surplus of $2.4 million and it eventually came in with a surplus of $6.8 million.
On April 24, City Council approved a motion brought forward by Councilllor Michael Galloway, to re-open the 2006 budget and consider options on where to allocate the additional surplus funds of $1.866 million which were not included in the original budget. Tonight, City Council agreed to allocate $1.288 million from the 2005 surplus to fund a one-time adjustment to the property tax rate for 2006.
''By giving back this one-time tax credit, we are really giving back a dividend to our shareholders - the property owners of our community,'' noted the Chair of the City's Finance and Corporate Services Committee, Councillor Berry Vrbanovic. ''When we as a community are experiencing strong and healthy economic times, we should do whatever we can to pass those benefits on to our citizens.''
In addition to the one-time tax adjustment, City staff had also noted that the additional funds could have been used to pay down the City's debt or to fund projects out of the City's capital budget priorities which were not initially allocated funding for 2006.
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Full-time Management Team Hired for Your Kitchener Market
KITCHENER - A full-time management team, including a new Market Manager and a Supervisor of Business Development, will begin work at Your Kitchener Market in the first week of June.
Karen Killeen, a native of London, Ontario, will assume the position of Market Manager, while Ingrid Schiller, of Waterloo, will begin a brand new role as Supervisor of Business Development.
''We're really excited to have a permanent full-time management team in place at Your Kitchener Market,'' said Ann Pappert, the City's general manager of community services. ''Our new team is very passionate about enabling this wonderful community institution to reach is full potential as one of the finest, animated urban markets in the country.''
Killeen brings extensive experience in facility operations, financial and project management, customer service and client-tenant relations to her new role. An advocate for building excellent community and business relations, she's had a long and successful career leading significant cultural and community venues throughout southwestern Ontario and British Columbia, most recently with the City of Kingston's Grand Theatre.
She has also held roles including: Executive Director, London International Children's Festival; General Manager, of The Port Theatre Society in Nanaimo, BC and she was a former Theatre Manager for the Chrysler Theatre in Windsor and Toronto's Massey Hall and Roy Thomson Hall.
Schiller will apply her strong background in marketing, communications and events management to her new role as Supervisor of Business Development. Her technical experience comes from a decade of working in media relations and promotions, most recently with CTV Southwestern Ontario Inc. in Kitchener. Over the past 10 years, Schiller has also enjoyed a variety of roles on several Oktoberfest and United Way committees.
"'Both Karen and Ingrid have a real passion for community and the unbridled energy and enthusiasm that will undoubtedly make Your Kitchener Market a unique and memorable experience for all,'' said Keith Baulk, the City's director of enterprise.
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Ontario must not be isolated from Canada
Ontario Premier must advance Ontario's interests and build a strong
Canada, Tory says
QUEEN'S PARK - Progressive Conservative Party Leader John Tory today said the Premier must fight for a strong Ontario as part of a strong Canada, not in isolation from the rest of the country.
"Ontario cannot and should not allow itself to become isolated from all
of the other provinces," said Tory, in a speech to over 2,000 people at the
annual PC Party Leader's Dinner in Toronto. "Past Ontario Premiers have always
been strong enough and confident enough to know that they had two very
connected responsibilities: to protect and advance Ontario's interests and to
build a strong and united Canada.
"Prime Minister Harper has clearly indicated his willingness to review
current fiscal arrangements and, as Premier, I will work with him because as
part of a strong, united, Canada, Ontario must get a better deal," Tory said.
"I believe the citizens and taxpayers expect that their leaders will not
engage in endless squabbling, but instead act constructively to build a
stronger, more prosperous and more caring country."
In his speech, Tory said Dalton McGuinty has abandoned his promise to end
bickering between Ottawa and Queen's Park. The Premier has also disregarded
his comments from immediately after the recent federal election about working
productively with the new government.
"Dalton McGuinty seems bent on picking a fight with the rest of Canada
and seeing Ontario become isolated. It seems that these days if anything goes
wrong anywhere in Ontario there is a McGuinty Cabinet Minister not far behind,
blaming Ottawa," said Tory.
Prime Minister Harper has clearly indicated his willingness to review
current fiscal arrangements and, as Premier, I will work with him because as
part of a strong, united Canada, Ontario must get a better deal.
"Once again it is the placing of partisan interests ahead of the public
interest. It does not advance Ontario's position, it does not help build the
nation and it will not be the approach that I will take if I am elected
Premier of this Province," said Tory.
"I did not enter public life to posture and to snipe and to play endless
versions of the blame game. I entered public life to get things done," Tory
said. "You will never see me shirk my responsibility to promote and defend
Ontario's interests, but you will also never see me shy away from working to
bring Canadians together in order to advance the interests of our country as a
whole."
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New Waterloo Region Emergency Management Web Site Launch Kicks-Off National Emergency Preparedness Week May 7 – 13, 2006
Waterloo Region – Emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere. By preparing for emergencies in advance, individuals and communities can reduce the impact on their lives and property.
Just in time for Emergency Preparedness Week (May 7 – 13, 2006), Community Emergency Management Coordinators (CEMCs) in Waterloo Region have cooperatively launched a new Web site – Waterloo Region Emergency Management at www.wrem.ca .
The goal of this Web site is to increase awareness and educate residents about emergency management (mitigation/prevention, preparedness, response and recovery) in Waterloo region.
“Our goal is to work together with all community partners, and to share what we know with our citizens,” said Marg Verbeek, Manager of Emergency Measures for the Region of Waterloo.
The new site links all Emergency Response Plans, identifies the top 10 potential risks for Waterloo Region, and gives practical tips for personal preparedness such as preparing an emergency survival kit. It has something for everyone, with teacher resource information, interesting and informative links, fun interactive games that test your knowledge on emergency preparedness and children’s activities. It’s never too early to learn about emergency preparedness. If you think that emergencies don’t happen in Waterloo Region, have a look at the history book page.
In celebration of Emergency Preparedness Week, visit the new Waterloo Region Emergency Management Web site, become aware of the potential emergencies that face you and your family and learn how to prepare.
Emergency Preparedness Week is an annual, national event that takes place during the first full week of May. All Emergency Preparedness Week activities reinforce the idea that we can understand the risks and reduce the impacts of an emergency by being better prepared.
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| Incentives Help Boost Transparency
Daniel Kaufmann, director of the World Bank Institute on Governance, suggests that offering incentives rather than punishing wrongdoers was the best way to increase transparency, writes The Bangkok Post online.
“‘Rather than simply increasing penalties, we should also look at incentives to convince those in public office as well as corporations and the banking sector to comply with transparency rules and accountability,’ he told a World Bank seminar on governance and corruption. As developing countries embark on political reform, Kaufmann recommended they take several steps to improve control of corruption. They include requiring public disclosure of the assets and incomes of political candidates, public officials, and their families. Financial contributions to political campaigns should also be disclosed, Kaufmann said.”
He also suggested countries “follow the Bank's practice in blacklisting firms which offer bribes in vying for state sector contracts, or which deliver poor public services. A freedom of information law giving the public easy access to government information including parliamentary votes of all bills would also create more transparency, he said.”
The Nation (Thailand) meanwhile writes Kaufmann warned that “Thailand's competitiveness will erode if the Kingdom fails to effectively combat corruption and install good governance, which has been slipping over the past few years. Kaufmann said findings between 1996 and 2004 show Thailand has suffered a major deterioration in the rule of law. While countries like Zimbabwe and the Central African Republic were far worse, the Kingdom has been overtaken by Serbia, Mozambique and Estonia, among others. He said the statistics on Thailand concerning corruption were ‘significant.’”
“Kaufmann … said reducing the level of corruption leads to a higher national income and a lower mortality rate - not the other way around … Among strategies that appear to work are collecting and analyzing data … A free press also helps and political reform is very important. Kaufmann said more countries are now paying attention to political finance campaigns that are often made as laws benefit the donors. Disciplining the market also helps, Kaufmann said.” The news sources adds that the World Bank will release its next governance and corruption report in two months and will in future publish it annually instead of once every two years.
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Mayor Quarrie welcomes many aspects of yesterday’s federal budget
Guelph’s mayor, Kate Quarrie, welcomes yesterday’s federal budget as good news for Guelph and Canadian cities in general.
“We see this budget as a promising step toward establishing better funded communities,” says Mayor Quarrie. “I think it’s evidence that Ottawa is paying attention to issues that affect Canadians close to home – issues such as infrastructure, public transit, the mediation of brownfields, and social housing. The effects of dedicating funds toward these issues will be felt right here at home by Guelph’s families and other residents.”
New money for loans and grants for municipal governments to mediate brownfields – industrial or commercial property with potential for redevelopment – under Canada’s Green Municipal Fund is one of several aspects of the budget with which Mayor Quarrie is pleased. “Brownfield redevelopment is an important part of renewing neighbourhoods, creating jobs, boosting investment in areas with existing facilities, and making lands in built-up areas ready for housing.”
The City is also encouraged with Ottawa’s renewed commitment to infrastructure and public transit. A tax credit on the purchase of monthly transit passes starting in July will mean about $150 a year in tax relief for frequent transit users. “Urban air quality is an extremely important issue for Canadian municipalities,” says Mayor Quarrie. “Transportation options with potential for less impact on the environment are very important.”
$2 billion of new money for Canada’s Strategic Infrastructure Fund is more welcome news for municipalities. Treasurer and Finance Director David Kennedy explains that, for Guelph, this should result in bringing the city closer to an appropriate infrastructure sustainability funding level. “I’m encouraged by this commitment to address Canada’s major municipal infrastructure deficit. More than a century of use is taking a toll on Guelph’s infrastructure. Roads, bridges, and other municipal assets require ongoing maintenance, rehabilitation, and replacement in order to remain functional. Cities need funding to ensure this happens.”
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IMPROVED UNIVERSITY AND COLLEGE FACILITIES IN WATERLOO REGION
WATERLOO REGION – Postsecondary students in Waterloo Region will benefit from an improved learning environment due to Ontario government investments in upgrades to buildings and facilities, John Milloy, Liberal MPP for Kitchener Centre announced May 3, 2006.
The Ontario government has invested almost $3.4 million at the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University and Conestoga College, to upgrade facilities and purchase equipment.
“We’re on the side of families who want their children to find opportunity. That’s why we’re helping to improve the quality of postsecondary education for students by upgrading the physical space at the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University and Conestoga College,” said Milloy. “At the same time, we are ensuring college students have access to the modern, state-of-the-art equipment they need to prepare for the demands of today’s workforce.”
The University of Waterloo has spent $1.9 million to replace and repair roofs and to upgrade mechanical and electrical systems. Funding was also used to upgrade elevators and repair masonry and building exteriors.
Wilfrid Laurier University has invested $638,080 to restore building exteriors, comply with health and safety codes, and improve accessibility for the physically disabled.
Conestoga College spent $479,450 to repair roofs, replace electrical switch gear and to convert several small classrooms into an amphitheatre. In addition, the college spent $363,960 to purchase student work stations, hearing instruments and information technology.
Last year, the government provided $50 million to Ontario colleges and universities under the Facilities Renewal Program and the College Equipment Renewal Fund. These programs are part of the province’s ReNew Ontario infrastructure investment plan. Under the plan, the government and its partners will invest more than $30 billion in Ontario’s infrastructure over the next five years.
This initiative is just one way the McGuinty government is working to provide opportunity for Ontario youth. Other initiatives include:
Investing $6.2 billion over five years on greater accessibility, accountability and quality
Creating 75,000 more spaces in postsecondary facilities for qualified students
Doubling student aid so families can afford a postsecondary education.
“The brains and know-how of a highly skilled workforce are the economic edge of the 21st century,” said Christopher Bentley, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities. “By enhancing the quality of the educational experience for students, we help them reach higher and strengthen Ontario’s economic advantage.”
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McGuinty Government Improves Home Care
Multi-million Dollar Commitment Focuses On Quality Home Care Support
TORONTO - The McGuinty government is investing $117.8 million to improve home care and community support services this year, and announcing a comprehensive plan to address the recommendations from Elinor Caplan's review of Community Care Access Centres (CCACs), Health and Long-Term Care Minister George Smitherman announced May 1, 2006.
"Community health care is a priority for our government, and we are
committed to providing quality health care to individuals in their own homes
when they require it. Elinor Caplan's report has given us a road map to
improve the CCAC system and we are making a $30-million investment to
implement her recommendations," said Smitherman.
The funding announced today includes:
- $35 million increase to CCACs for acute home care services
- $26.7 million for Ontario's end-of-life care strategy
- $30 million to implement the Caplan report recommendations
- $12.75 million in funding for in-home rehabilitation services for
8,500 people who have had hip and knee replacements
- $13.1 million for community services
The government is accepting 68 of 70 recommendations in Caplan's review
of CCACs. Many of these recommendations benefit individuals who work in the
personal support field. Personal Support Workers will benefit from an increase
in the minimum wage from $9.65/hr to $12.50/hr and will receive enhanced
benefits, such as travel time and mileage compensation. The home care
workforce as a whole will get improved job security through measures like
extending CCAC contracts with home care agencies to up to nine years.
"The government's response to the Caplan report will greatly improve the
quality of care for those receiving home care across Ontario," said
Jim Armstrong, Chief Executive Officer, Ontario Association of Community Care
Access Centres.
"We value the care that nurses, personal support workers and therapists
provide to thousands of clients each and every day," Smitherman said. "They
are the backbone of the home care system."
Today's initiative is part of the McGuinty government's plan for
innovation in public health care, building a system that delivers on three
priorities - keeping Ontarians healthy, reducing wait times and providing
better access to doctors and nurses.
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Ontario water report dangerously flawed, could lead to privatization and loss of local accountability
TORONTO - The Ontario Municipal Water Association (OMWA) is warning Queen's Park that proposals to create a provincial Water Board, as well as establish local water companies across the province, could ultimately lead to the privatization of Ontario's publicly-owned water infrastructure. "The private sector could end up owning our water systems if the provincial government adopts these misguided recommendations," said Rosemary Kelleher-MacLennan, Chair of the OMWA, at the association's annual meeting May 1, 2006. "We're calling on Queen's Park to reject these proposals and to enshrine in legislation the fundamental principle that the province's water systems are to remain publicly owned."
The OMWA was responding to a report by the Water Strategy Expert Panel,
established by the provincial government, which has made recommendations to
David Caplan, Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal. The OMWA's members
serve the water needs of more than 80 per cent of the population of Ontario.
The report, titled Watertight: The Case for Change in Ontario's Water and
Wastewater Sector, recommends rationalizing the system by requiring counties,
single-tier municipalities, and regional municipalities to submit plans to a
proposed Ontario Water Board on how they will amalgamate water systems within
their boundaries (and even beyond) to achieve greater cost-efficiencies. The
Water Board would have the authority to approve or require changes to these
plans.
"This would result in control of water assets being transferred from
municipalities to so-called 'corporatized utilities', and we see that as
opening the way to dismantling public ownership," Kelleher-MacLennan stated.
"Ultimately, our water systems could end up in the hands of private
interests."
The Watertight report itself makes the statement that there is nothing
inherently wrong with private-sector ownership of water systems. 'There is no
necessary connection between ownership and performance,' the report states.
'Whether the assets are publicly or privately owned, it is the details of
management and operations that dictate excellence.' (Page 33 of the report.)
The OMWA also views the Ontario Water Board as an unnecessary and heavy-
handed intrusion by the province into municipal decision-making. "It's the
local ratepayers who are affected by the organization and financing of these
water assets, and that's why local accountability should be preserved," said
Kelleher-MacLennan. "It will add a costly and unwanted level of bureaucracy
that will have to be paid by local residents. Why should these decisions be
made in Toronto?"
Another concern is that the proposed Water Board would further fragment
responsibility for water issues - exactly the kind of fragmentation that the
Walkerton Inquiry warned against - causing uncertainty and confusion. In fact,
the report even suggests that the Water Board could take over the inspection
function of the Ministry of the Environment.
"Water is too important a resource to become a political football in a
power struggle between competing ministries, agencies and jurisdictions," said
Kelleher-MacLennan. "We feel that the Ministry of the Environment should be
the lead on all water-related issues."
The OMWA agrees with the report that water systems should be operated on
a full-cost recovery basis so that they are able to make the necessary
investment in infrastructure and maintain and operate their assets over the
long term. However, the association disagrees with the report's 'solution' and
is strongly opposed to top-down provincial regulatory control.
The OMWA maintains the Sustainable Water and Sewage Systems Act would
accomplish the same goal of creating larger and more efficient water system
units, but would do so by allowing municipalities to make their own decisions
based on full-cost recovery planning. The province needs to begin by passing
regulations under the Act and to work with the public water supply sector to
develop the best mechanisms for change.
"This is a far more sensible and sensitive way to increase scale and
capacity in the sector. It is permissive rather than prescriptive. It
recognizes that every water system in the province is unique. A one-size-fits-
all approach simply will not work," said Douglas Parker, Executive Director of
the OMWA.
"We call on the Minister of Environment to work with us as we did on
Walkerton to find solutions that best meet the needs of the residents of
Ontario and the need to invest in infrastructure," added Parker.
The OMWA is an association of 200 municipal water providers, their
elected officials and senior management, which serve more than seven million
water consumers in the province.
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Region of Waterloo Public Health Releases First Phase of Pandemic Plan and Launches Pandemic Web Site
Waterloo Region — The first phase of Waterloo Region’s Community Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Plan was released today April 28. This first phase of the plan outlines how Region of Waterloo Public Health, in collaboration with community stakeholders, will begin the work necessary to ensure Waterloo Region is prepared to respond to an influenza pandemic.
“Our approach of engaging a wide array of stakeholders and having them assist in developing the plan will ensure our response is both coordinated and effective,” said Dr. Liana Nolan, Commissioner/Medical Officer of Health. “While there is still much more work to do, we have provided a solid framework from which to plan.”
The first phase of the plan develops a common framework — goals, assumptions, principles and management structure — to be used by individuals and organizations involved in the pandemic planning, response and recovery process. The second stage will clarify how local resources will be mobilized during a pandemic event and who is responsible for each task. It will also develop the necessary tools and guidelines that can be used by responding organizations. The second stage will commence in May 2006 and conclude in late 2006/early 2007.
In addition to releasing the first phase of the plan, Public Health has also launched a new pandemic web site — www.waterlooregionpandemic.ca. The web site contains copies of the plan as well as basic information on influenza, pandemic influenza, avian influenza, and information about personal preparedness and business continuity planning. It will continue to be updated as more information and resources become available. |
The City of Guelph remains committed to diverting waste from landfill despite news about funding
The City of Guelph learned early this morning it will not receive Canadian-Ontario Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund (COMRIF) funding for upgrades to its organics processing facility.
Mayor Kate Quarrie was very disappointed in hearing the result of the City’s COMRIF application when she met with MPP Liz Sandals this morning. She was advised that while the City’s application ranked high in terms of technical criteria, priority was given to other applications.
MPP Sandals reported that the province’s investment of $117.9 million could only extend to the top 88 of the total 339 applications received. Top ranking was given to projects that addressed immediate safety or health concerns.
The city’s current three-stream collection system remains unchanged. The City continues to collect properly sorted organics, (green bag) recyclables (blue bag) and waste (clear bag) at the curb. “This news does not change Guelph’s dedication to diverting waste from landfill,” says Mayor Quarrie.
MPP Sandals supports Guelph’s ongoing commitment. “I fully supported the City’s application for the COMRIF grant and I’m disappointed that it was denied. However, I am pleased that the City remains committed to three-stream collection and wet waste diversion.”
The City will begin its solid waste management strategic plan later this year, during which it will examine options for the future.
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Strong New Leader Would Bring Greater Accountability
QUEEN'S PARK - The Ontario government is continuing the renewal of the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) by nominating a new Chair.
Today, the Government of Ontario has nominated former MPP and federal
Cabinet Minister Steve Mahoney as Chair of the Board of Directors, subject to
review by the Standing Committee on Government Agencies. If confirmed by the
standing committee and appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council,
Mahoney would take over from current acting Chair Jill Hutcheon, who will
remain as President.
The new Chair will continue the work begun by Hutcheon to rebuild the
WSIB and ensure a strong agency for future workers and employers. The WSIB has
already made great strides in its efficiency, effectiveness and financial
stability.
Mahoney would bring over 25 years of experience at the municipal,
provincial and federal levels of government, including one year as Federal
Secretary of State for Crown Corporations. Mahoney was also previously Labour
critic in the Ontario legislature.
He is currently President and Chief Executive Officer of Mahoney
International Group, which specializes in the marketing of new products and
concepts, and helps clients develop business strategies.
"The renewal of the WSIB initiated by the McGuinty government will
continue," said Labour Minister Steve Peters. "We believe Steve Mahoney shares
our government's commitment to ensuring injured workers are treated with
dignity, fairness and respect, and that the WSIB achieves its prevention goals
while operating in a fiscally responsible and efficient way."
The WSIB provides disability benefits to workers through a no-fault
insurance plan, facilitates the early and safe return to work of injured
workers and oversees Ontario's workplace safety prevention and training
system. In 2004, an independent audit of the WSIB recommended that the
government act to separate the positions of Board Chair and President.
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KARL WETTSTEIN ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY
Guelph - Karl Wettstein declared his candidacy for Guelph City Councillor Wednesday saying, “Guelph needs a council that understands the role of public participation”. Wettstein will run in Ward 6, where he and his wife Carol have been residents since 1978.
Wettstein says, “We have serious financial management issues to deal with in Guelph. This city requires a council that knows how to lead a multi-million dollar corporation, understands the role of critical investment, and knows how to avoid micro managing. Guelph is moving from a small, progressive city to a much more complex and controversial mid-sized city where public involvement will be essential.”
“I believe the key issues for this election all relate to leadership, teamwork, consensus-building, and mutual trust and respect. The electorate, our staff and our neighbours deserve nothing less.”
Karl’s executive background in the areas of human resources, corporate and strategic planning, and commercial property development will serve the City well. He also has a broad base of experience serving and chairing boards, areas identified by Mr. Cuff as needing substantial improvement.
Karl Wettstein served on Guelph city council from 2000-2003, was a member of the Finance and Administration Committee, as well as other council sub-committees and boards.
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Ontario Government Helps Women Pursue Careers In Skilled Trades
Giving Low-Income Women The Skills They Need For Economic Independence
GUELPH - The Ontario government is investing $1.5 million to provide pre-apprenticeship training in the skilled trades for low-income women who are unemployed or underemployed, Minister Responsible for Women's Issues Sandra Pupatello announced April 26.
"This funding means low-income women will get the training they need to
pursue rewarding careers in a high-growth sector," said Pupatello. "The Women
in Skilled Trades program gives women the opportunity to become economically
independent and to contribute to Ontario's economy."
This investment will help seven training facilities to deliver
pre-apprenticeship training for up to 145 women. The women will receive
instruction in carpentry, welding, electrical work, building construction, and
facilities maintenance. Training will be delivered at facilities in Barrie,
Burlington, Waterloo, Kenora, Ottawa and Fort Frances.
"The government's continuing support for the Women in Skilled Trades
program is very welcome on two counts," said Conestoga College President
John Tibbits. "First, it makes possible excellent opportunities and rewarding
career choices for women in the skilled trades. Second, it calls attention to
the importance of trades and apprenticeship education, and highlights the need
to expand participation in this area."
Including this year's enrolment, approximately 650 women will have been
given the opportunity to enter a pre-apprenticeship training program. The
government is committed to increasing the number of overall apprenticeship
registrations by 7,000 to a total of 26,000 annually in 2007-08.
A new One-Stop Training and Employment System will help ensure this
increase in registrations by providing a clear pathway into apprenticeship,
increasing the focus on employer outreach and recruitment, as well as
improving apprenticeship completion rates.
Other McGuinty government initiatives to provide opportunities include:
- Increasing the minimum wage twice to $7.75
- Expanding academic upgrading options for people who leave
high school early
- Expanding the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program and the
Pre-apprenticeship Program.
"The Women in Skilled Trades program has been a resounding success across
Ontario, and I am confident that it will continue to be," said Pupatello. "The
McGuinty government is determined to give women the opportunity to learn the
skills they need to secure good jobs and help build strong communities."
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Halton is First Ontario Location for BizPal: New Multi-Jurisdictional Service Provides One-Stop Access to Information for Businesses
OAKVILLE -- The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Industry, announced the launch of BizPaL in Halton Region. BizPaL is an innovative project designed to help Canadian businesses save time when accessing licensing and permit information from multiple levels of government. This unique partnership between federal, provincial, territorial, regional and municipal governments provides entrepreneurs and business people in Halton Region and the towns of Halton Hills and Milton with simplified access to the information they need to launch or grow their businesses.
"Canada's new government is proud to be a partner in the new BizPaL initiative -- a service that will speed up the licensing and permit processes for businesses and entrepreneurs," said Minister Bernier. "By working with the Province of Ontario, the Town of Halton Hills and the Town of Milton, we are launching a very useful technological initiative that will simplify government paperwork processes."
"We are pleased to participate in this important initiative supporting Ontario businesses," said Gerry Phillips, Ontario Minister of Government Services. "This is one more example of how we are partnering with other governments to make it easier for Ontarians to find information and access services."
Business owners and entrepreneurs can access the service from municipal websites http://www.halton.ca, http://www.haltonhills.ca and http://www.milton.ca. Based on the responses to a number of interactive questions on the nature and location of the business, the online service generates a customized list of required government permits and licences. The list includes basic information about the permits and licences, the order in which they should be obtained, contact information and, in some cases, links to begin the application process.
The BizPaL system was developed by Industry Canada in partnership with the Government of Ontario and Halton Region. It is offered in Halton through the collaborative efforts of the Region, the Town of Halton Hills and the Town of Milton. The City of Burlington and the Town of Oakville are preparing to offer BizPaL in 2006. Other participants in the BizPaL project are British Columbia and the City of Kamloops; Saskatchewan and the City of Saskatoon; and Yukon with the municipalities of Carmacks, Dawson City, Faro, Haines Junction, Mayo, Teslin, Watson Lake and Whitehorse. Visit http://www.BizPaL.ca for project history and information, or to access the BizPaL service in participating jurisdictions.
"Expanding partnerships with other orders of government to increase one-stop shopping opportunities is part of our commitment to providing the best customer service possible," said Joyce Savoline, Regional Chairman of Halton Region. "Halton is very pleased to be on the ground level of this leading-edge initiative, which helps small business owners and operators by providing them with the resources they need to succeed."
"The BizPaL online service expedites the permit and licence acquisition process, and cuts through a lot of red tape," said Rick Bonnette, Mayor of the Town of Halton Hills. "A faster start-up time is good news for new businesses looking to locate in Halton."
"Milton is excited to be part of the BizPal project. I am sure that individuals looking to start a business in Milton will find valuable information available at the click of a mouse," said Gord Krantz, Mayor of the Town of Milton. "It will definitely help potential business owners understand permit and licensing requirements, and make starting that business easier."
"Many business owners can feel overwhelmed by the regulatory aspect of starting a new business in Burlington," said Robert MacIsaac, Mayor of the City of Burlington. "With BizPaL, that burden is lifted a bit, and entrepreneurs can embark on their businesses with that much more confidence. It is a great tool, and I look forward to working with our partners to adapt the service to Burlington's specific needs."
"Creative partnerships like BizPaL can lead to enhanced service delivery and help simplify processes for the people we serve," said Ann Mulvale, Mayor of the Town of Oakville. "Our city has a track record of customer-friendly e-solutions, and I'm looking forward to implementing BizPaL as another innovative service that we offer. I'm pleased to work with the province and our other partners on this exciting initiative."
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Consolidated government finance: Assets and liabilities as of March 31, 2004
The consolidated net financial debt of the federal, provincial, territorial, and local governments, defined as the excess of liabilities over financial assets, increased to $798.4 billion as of March 31, 2004, up $3.9 billion or 0.5% from March 31, 2003. An increase of $17.2 billion in financial assets and $21.1 billion in liabilities accounted for the rise.
The federal government net financial debt declined by $2.8 billion, while the net financial debt of the provincial, territorial, and local governments rose by $6.7 billion.
The consolidated net financial debt of these governments represented 63.7% of gross domestic product in 2004, down from 65.5% the year before. This decline was due mainly to the growth in gross domestic product (GDP). Net financial debt, as a percent of GDP has gone down every year since it peaked at 102.1% in 1996.
On a per capita basis, net financial debt fell from $25,164 in 2003 to $25,044. The highest per capita net financial debt was recorded in 1997 at $28,543.
Newfoundland and Labrador had the highest per capita net financial debt in 2004 ($20,666), followed by Quebec ($14,961) and Nova Scotia ($12,848).
Governments in the Yukon, Alberta and the Northwest Territories did not register any net financial debt. In each case, their financial assets exceeded their liabilities on a per capita basis: by $9,065 in the Yukon; $4,893 in Alberta; and $1,907 in the Northwest Territories.
Note: The Financial Management System (FMS) provides a standardized presentation of government accounting for the federal, provincial, territorial and local governments in Canada. The individual governments' accounting systems are not directly comparable because the policies and structure of governments differ.
The FMS adjusts data from governments' Public Accounts and other records to provide detailed data that permit inter-government comparisons as well as national aggregates that are consistent over time. As a result, FMS statistics may not accord with the figures published in government financial statements.
| Consolidated net financial debt of federal, provincial, territorial and local general governments as of March 31 |
| Year |
Consolidated net financial debt |
% of GDP |
Per capita |
GDP first quarter |
Population at April 1 |
| |
$ millions |
|
$ |
$ millions |
thousands |
| 1991 |
532,636 |
78.5 |
19,066 |
678,172 |
27,936 |
| 1992 |
593,797 |
85.7 |
21,008 |
692,940 |
28,265 |
| 1993 |
667,196 |
93.3 |
23,331 |
714,776 |
28,597 |
| 1994 |
739,122 |
98.5 |
25,571 |
750,696 |
28,905 |
| 1995 |
797,582 |
99.5 |
27,304 |
801,904 |
29,211 |
| 1996 |
836,993 |
102.1 |
28,358 |
819,976 |
29,515 |
| 1997 |
851,118 |
98.1 |
28,543 |
867,828 |
29,819 |
| 1998 |
847,318 |
93.4 |
28,167 |
906,904 |
30,082 |
| 1999 |
848,660 |
89.4 |
27,993 |
949,136 |
30,317 |
| 2000 |
832,687 |
79.9 |
27,215 |
1,042,100 |
30,597 |
| 2001 |
800,373 |
71.8 |
25,891 |
1,115,212 |
30,913 |
| 2002 |
796,743 |
71.2 |
25,483 |
1,118,780 |
31,266 |
| 2003 |
794,509 |
65.5 |
25,164 |
1,212,808 |
31,573 |
| 2004 |
798,361 |
63.7 |
25,044 |
1,252,380 |
31,878 |
| Consolidated net financial debt of provincial, territorial and local general governments as of March 31, 2004 |
| Province/Territory |
Consolidated net financial debt |
Per capita |
Population at April 1 |
| |
$ millions |
$ |
thousands |
| Newfoundland and Labrador |
10,705 |
20,666 |
518 |
| Prince Edward Island |
1,361 |
9,862 |
138 |
| Nova Scotia |
12,039 |
12,848 |
937 |
| New Brunswick |
6,330 |
8,418 |
752 |
| Quebec |
112,674 |
14,961 |
7,531 |
| Ontario |
107,025 |
8,661 |
12,357 |
| Manitoba |
11,498 |
9,844 |
1,168 |
| Saskatchewan |
9,242 |
9,298 |
994 |
| Alberta |
-15,620 |
-4,893 |
3,192 |
| British Columbia |
19,513 |
4,659 |
4,188 |
| Yukon |
-281 |
-9,065 |
31 |
| Northwest Territories |
-82 |
-1,907 |
43 |
| Nunavut |
309 |
10,655 |
29 |
|
Ontario Government Creates Landmark Transportation Agency
Proposed Legislation Would Benefit Commuters With Coordinated Services
And A Single Fare Card
QUEEN'S PARK - The Ontario government is taking the next step to create the Greater Toronto Transportation Authority (GTTA), which would make commuting easier for people in the GTA and Hamilton, Transportation Minister Harinder Takhar announced April 24.
"We know that someone who lives in Brampton and works in Toronto wants to
get home in time for dinner with the family," said Takhar. "That's why I am
introducing legislation later today that lays the foundation for timely and
reliable transportation across the region."
Hamilton Mayor Larry Di Ianni, Burlington Mayor Robert MacIsaac, Oakville
Mayor Ann Mulvale, Mississauga Mayor Hazel McCallion, Brampton Mayor
Susan Fennell, Halton Regional Chair Joyce Savoline, Peel Regional Chair
Emil Kolb, York Regional Chair Bill Fisch, Durham Regional Chair
Roger Anderson and Toronto Transit Commission Chair Howard Moscoe joined
Minister Takhar in making today's announcement.
If the proposed legislation is passed, the GTTA will:
- Implement the GTA Fare Card System, which would enable commuters to
travel on public transit from Durham Region to Hamilton using a
single card
- Integrate municipal and regional transit planning, and co-ordinate
fares and transit service delivery to improve convenience for
commuters
- Coordinate the purchase of transit vehicles on behalf of
municipalities
- Manage GO Transit
- Develop and submit an annual capital plan and investment strategy
Subject to passage of the legislation, GTTA - governed by regional
municipalities and the Province - could be in operation by September, 2006. An
advisory committee of stakeholders representing seniors, students, persons
with disabilities and the business community will also be created.
"One of the board's first goals will be to develop an investment plan
that is consistent with the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe,"
said Public Infrastructure Renewal Minister David Caplan. "An estimated
3.7 million more people are coming to this region over the next 25 years. We
need a comprehensive, long-term approach to make sure we have better transit
and transportation systems in place where we want growth to happen."
"GTTA will bring the province together with municipalities to develop a
seamless and integrated transportation plan for road, rail and transit," said
Takhar. "GTTA will bring a region-wide approach to transit and transportation
planning in the GTA and Hamilton."
The creation of the GTTA is one component of Move Ontario, a new
$1.2 billion investment in public transit and municipal roads and bridges that
was announced in the 2006 Budget. Quick, reliable and safe transportation is
vital to Ontario's economic success and quality of life.
The McGuinty government has taken a number of steps to improve the lives
of people in the Greater Toronto Area. In addition to the proposed GTTA, the
government has protected 1.8 million acres of land through the Greenbelt, and -
through the Greater Golden Horseshoe Growth Plan - will ensure well-planned
communities that provide a better quality of life for Ontarians.
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Region of Waterloo to Host Pandemic Planning (Business Continuity) Workshops
Waterloo Region – In response to global requests from public health experts, including the World Health Organization, who have stated that it "is a question of when, not if, the next pandemic event will occur".
The Region of Waterloo in an effort to educate businesses and not-for-profit organizations about this influenza pandemic threat, and the potential impact it will have on their operations and the local community in general, Region of Waterloo Public Health is hosting Pandemic Planning (Business Continuity) Workshops.
Region of Waterloo Public Health is collaborating with a variety of stakeholders on developing a community influenza pandemic plan for Waterloo Region to ensure a coordinated and effective response.
However, local organizations and businesses will be responsible for developing their own business or service continuity plans. These workshops will make businesses and organizations aware of the issues that need to be considered as they begin to prepare their pandemic-specific plans.
WHAT: Business continuity workshops for pandemic preparedness
WHEN: May 9, 2006 and May 10, 2006.
WHERE: Kitchener Holiday Inn (May 9), 30 Fairway Road South and Cambridge Holiday Inn (May 10), 200 Holiday Inn Drive
REGISTRATION: Interested individuals and organizations can register with the Waterloo Region Small Business Centre. Cost is $35 per person.
SPEAKERS*:
Marg Verbeek, Manager, Emergency Measures, Region of Waterloo
Dr. Liana Nolan, Commissioner/Medical Officer of Health, Public Health
Ralph Dunham, Canadian Business Continuity Practice Leader, Marsh Canada Ltd.
James G. Knight, Partner, Filion Wakely Thorup Angeletti, LLP
Dr. Terence Flynn, Frontline Corporate Communications Inc.
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Better access to government procurement for multicultural business
Gatineau, Quebec - The Honourable Michael M Fortier, Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC), today announced that the Government of Canada intends to create more opportunities for Canada's multicultural business community.
"Our country's Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) landscape is diverse, both with respect to the services companies provide and in terms of ownership," said PWGSC Minister Michael M Fortier. "Through the Federal Accountability Act, the Canadian government will provide much-needed support for multicultural companies."
The Minister's announcement comes as the government unveils new measures to support SMEs. Last week, the Minister announced the expansion of the Office of Small and Medium Enterprises, which will enable more small and medium suppliers, including multicultural ones, to participate in federal government procurement opportunities.
Expanding OSME will help fulfill the government's commitment to reform procurement. Other measures to strengthen the integrity of government include:
· a legislated commitment to fairness, openness, and transparency in the procurement process;
· require contracts to include integrity provisions that require action be taken to preclude corruption, collusion, and the payment of contingency fees in the procurement process;
· promote fairness, openness and transparency in the bidding process through a new Policy on Managing Procurement, which will be independently reviewed before it is finalized;
· a proposed Procurement Auditor to review procurement practices on an ongoing basis;
· introduction of a Code of Conduct for Procurement; and
· provide accreditation and training for procurement officers.
Minister Fortier was in Richmond Hill to meet with the members of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) to inform them of these measures, and to specifically pledge the government's support for multicultural SMEs.
"Language and ethnicity, like size and location, should never exclude a business from competing for government contracts. SMEs are far too critical to the country's economy for us to leave the multicultural ones behind because something got lost in the translation," said Minister Fortier.
The Richmond Hill business community was pleased with the Minister's announcement. "I find the intent very sincere and encouraging for small and medium companies," said Daisy Wai, chair of the Richmond Hill Chamber of Commerce and President of Ad2000 and Beyond Advertising Inc. "The government is acting quickly on its promises and this is good news. We're looking forward to working with the Canadian government."
Catherine Swift, President of the CFIB, also welcomed the initiative. "Doing business with government has always been a big challenge for small firms. Minister Fortier's announcement today is a very positive step toward improving access to government opportunities for all small and medium companies."
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Scott Brison officially announces his leadership bid
WOLFVILLE, N.S. - Scott Brison today officially announced that he will be a candidate for the leadership of the Liberal Party of Canada, saying he represents a new generation of leadership and a new generation of ideas.
He told cheering supporters in his home riding of Kings-Hants, Nova
Scotia, that he believes in the politics of purpose based on being
economically competitive, socially progressive and environmentally
responsible.
Mr. Brison also challenged those who want to narrowly position the
Liberal Party as either centre right or centre left. "I was born in the 1960s
but I'm not stuck there and our party can't be stuck there either. The
challenges and opportunities of the 21st century are too complex for outdated
ideological rigidity," he said.
To view his launch speech, please visit: www.scottbrison.ca
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Bob Rae to declare candidacy for Federal Liberal Leadership
TORONTO, On April 21 CNW reported that Bob Rae will announce that he is a candidate for the leadership of the Liberal Party of Canada at a campaign launch on Monday, April 24th at 5:00 p.m. at Ryerson University, George Vari Engineering
Centre, 245 Church St., 3rd floor, in the heart of Toronto.
Mr. Rae will be joined by community leaders, supporters, friends and Rae
family members. Mr. Rae will then introduce highlights of his national
platform, guiding principles informed by decades of domestic and international
political, diplomatic, economic and cultural experience.
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City paving road to the future, addressing backlog of road work
TORONTO - With additional funding from City Council, Toronto's Transportation Services Division is working toward addressing the backlog of roadwork, beginning in 2006.
"Council recognizes that our networks of roads cannot be neglected and
has stepped to the plate to provide more funding," said Councillor Shelley
Carroll, Chair of the City's Works Committee, who added that Toronto Council
has supported an increase of approximately $10 million for 2006 to attack the
backlog. This money will be used mainly for resurfacing projects to extend the
life of some roads and avoid having more roads fall into the backlog category.
For the past four years, the City has managed to keep the backlog in
check at about $235 million, but due to aging infrastructure, it is expected
to grow to more than $300 million by the end of 2006. Left unchecked, the
backlog will result in increased emergency maintenance costs and reduce the
quality of travel conditions for all road users.
"Council's decision to provide more money for our network of roads and
expressways is critical because it means improved road conditions now and
fewer serious problems in the future," added Councillor Carroll. "With some of
this work being done sooner rather than later, it will mean a savings of both
time and money for Toronto residents."
Similar to past years, Transportation Services is gearing up for a
significant amount of road work in 2006. More than 300 road and bridge
construction projects, totaling more than $300 million, are planned for this
year.
"Keeping the roads in a state of good repair is one of our main goals,"
said Gary Welsh, General Manager, Transportation Services. "But we don't do
this work haphazardly. We spend a significant amount of time and energy to
plan these projects carefully so that we can do whatever we can to keep
disruptions to a minimum."
To do this, roadwork, sidewalk repairs and routine maintenance work, as
well as work performed by utility and communications companies continues to be
co-ordinated by the City to avoid having road work done repeatedly across
Toronto.
Major road work planned for the City in 2006 will include Lakeshore
Boulevard, Lansdowne Avenue, McNicoll Avenue, Pharmacy Avenue, Runnymede Road
and The Queensway.
There will also be road closures on the Don Valley Parkway and the
Gardiner Expressway. The first expressway closure will take place on the
weekend of April 22 and 23 when the Gardiner Expressway will be closed in both
directions between Carlaw Avenue and the Humber River for annual spring
maintenance work.
"The roadwork we have planned for this year is necessary to provide safe
and comfortable travel conditions throughout the city for all road users,"
added Welsh.
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Kitchener starts Centre Block/Central Library Public Consultation process
Kitchener - The City of Kitchener as the first phase of a multi-phased public consultation process, to be held from April 14 through May 15, have asked residents to offer their input online, through the mail or by phone into the proposal to build a new central library on the downtown Kitchener property commonly known as the Centre Block.
The city-owned Centre Block is located within the boundaries of King, Ontario, Duke and Young Streets.
In March, City Council acknowledged the growing amount of public feedback it has been receiving on the library and Centre Block projects and deferred a decision until more public input can be obtained.
Recognizing that City of Kitchener residents have a significant role to play in the redevelopment of the Centre Block, Council recently directed City staff to begin a full public consultation process on the two projects that will allow as many people as possible to participate.
Participants are encouraged to contribute meaningful comments on a "Provide Your Comments Online" web form, approved public comments are then to be posted online at a "View Citizens' Comments to Date". Full Name and Street Address are required fields. It is indicated that staff are "happy to post them on the public comment page of the City's website" providing the submitter agree to some conditions:
Questions been asked are very basic and fail to direct further dialogue. First the city fails to disclose decision making background information that staff and council used in the decision making process. Secondly, and perhaps more important, is that the city is asking questions, instead of disclosing information to the public to further the scope of the publics understanding of the process.
The questions are below:
View Comment submission website
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Statement by Assembly of First Nations national chief on federal accountability act
OTTAWA - "Generally, the enhancements to federal government oversight and accountability announced today are positive steps forward and are worthy of our support. We have no criticism of the steps taken regarding election financing, conflict of interest, lobbying, government appointments, the budget process, procurement, polling and advertising, protection for whistleblowers, or internal audit capacity within departments. In addition, we support the changes announced to strengthen the role of the Auditor General of Canada. In fact, some of the steps announced in the Action Plan that was presented along with the legislation - such as re- examining the Policy on Transfer Payments and reducing the administrative and reporting burden faced by transfer payment recipients - reflect ideas that the AFN has been pursuing with the Treasury Board Secretariat for the past two years. We would hope to continue to be involved in those important processes. However, there is a significant flaw in the legislation tabled today. As the Act has been described, it "will give the Auditor General authority to inquire, at his or her discretion, into the use of funds that individuals, institutions, and companies receive under a funding agreement with any federal department, agency, or Crown corporation".
We have no objection whatsoever to this expansion of the Auditor
General's mandate; however, the government's Action Plan also stated that
"(t)his authority would not extend to transfers or transfer payments to other
governments or international organizations, or to recipients that have
received, in total, less than $1 million over any five consecutive fiscal
years. Other governments and international organizations-including foreign
governments, provinces, local, regional, and municipal governments, and self-
governing First Nations-will therefore be exempted from these audits".
Given that only about two per cent of First Nations have full self-
government agreements, this section of the legislation has the effect of
singling out almost all First Nation governments. Provincial and municipal
governments that receive cash transfers from the government of Canada will not
be subject to the same scrutiny from the Auditor General under the proposed
legislation, and there is no justification given in any of the documentation
presented by the Government of Canada as to why the majority of First Nation
governments would be singled out for the application of this aspect of the
legislation. If the government of Canada is truly committed to recognizing
First Nations rights in accordance with Canada's Constitution and maintaining
the government-to-government relationships we have worked so hard to build,
they will ensure this double standard is not included in the final version of
the legislation.
This is not a question of First Nations wanting to shirk responsibility.
First Nations have proven overwhelmingly accountable time and again, filing an
average of three reports a week and clearing 97% of audits with little or no
problem. That said, we are willing and able to make improvements. The AFN has
recommended that the Government of Canada assist First Nations in developing
offices of an Ombudsperson and an Auditor General for application to First
Nations governments.
We have also been working for more than two years now on a new approach
that ensures accountability of First Nations governments to their citizens as
well as accountability from the federal government to First Nations. We have
been working cooperatively and constructively with the Office of the Auditor
General to implement her excellent recommendations on better First Nations
reporting requirements, as well as working towards the creation of an
independent First Nations Auditor General and an independent First Nations
Ombudsperson. These are exciting initiatives that are being driven by First
Nations and supported by the Auditor General, and they must not be de-railed
by unilateral, imposed approaches.
This legislation is a step in the wrong direction for First Nations."
More information is available on the Assembly of First Nations website at
www.afn.ca.
The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing
First Nations citizens in Canada.
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Ontario Calls for New Approach to Fiscal Imbalance Minister Bountrogianni Campaigns For Fairness
OTTAWA - Ontario again is calling on the federal government to find a new approach to Canada's fiscal imbalance that ensures fairness for all Canadians, Dr. Marie Bountrogianni, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister Responsible for Democratic Renewal announced April 10.
"It's time to restore the balance," said Bountrogianni. "It's clear that
the federal government has more revenue than it needs to fulfil its
responsibilities and all provinces and municipalities need a greater share."
In a speech at the Eastern Ottawa Chamber of Commerce, Bountrogianni
highlighted that the fiscal imbalance is a priority for all premiers and that
Ontario is committed to addressing this issue to help all provinces and all
Canadians.
The fiscal imbalance is the mismatch of responsibilities and resources
between governments. The federal government has most of the money, while the
provinces and territories have responsibility for the programs that cost the
most and matter the most to Canadians, including health care and education.
"Ontarians are committed to doing their part to make Canada strong and
prosperous," said Bountrogianni. "We need an arrangement that recognizes the
growing importance of our cities and the demands of the new knowledge-based,
global economy."
Bountrogianni called on the federal government to ensure that all
Canadians are treated fairly. "This would mean that outside the Equalization
program, money in federal transfers should be delivered on a per capita
basis."
Premier McGuinty will also discuss the fiscal imbalance in Canada and how
it affects Ontario's economic prosperity when he meets with other premiers at
the April 11-12 Council of the Federation meeting in Montreal.
"It's only fair that all Canadians be treated equally," said
Bountrogianni. "I'm optimistic the federal government and other premiers will
address the fiscal imbalance to ensure we in Ontario have the resources
necessary to invest in our future prosperity."
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Mayor David Miller launches Building a Great City website
TORONTO - On April 10, Toronto Mayor David Miller launched a new website that a report says will help residents access information about Toronto Council's priorities and the progress the City has made to-date. Named 'Building a Great City,' the website can be found at www.toronto.ca/greatcity and also includes an e-mail link for members of the public to share their own stories of progress in their communities.
In 2004, at a series of Listening to Toronto sessions, Torontonians were
asked what City Council should focus on during their three-year term. Council
took the input from those consultations to heart and established nine key
priorities which have had an ongoing influence on both program planning and
budget decisions.
"I'm proud that council worked together and unanimously adopted
priorities that, for the first time, reflected the priorities of
Torontonians," said Mayor Miller. "Following the Toronto Computer Leasing
Inquiry, Madame Justice Denise Bellamy recommended that the city - through the
Mayor - should report to the public annually. This is that report. It shows
how the City has met its priorities as part of our effort to be a transparent
and accountable government."
To introduce the public to this new resource, bookmarks will be
distributed to all City libraries, Parks and Recreation Centres, City-run
daycares, Access Toronto service counters at civic centres and through the
offices of Councillors and the Mayor. Those who do not have access to their
own computer are encouraged to visit their local public library for free use
of computer terminals and high-speed internet access.
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Canada's new government lists the LTTE as a terrorist organization
OTTAWA - The Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety, today announced that Canada's new government has listed the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) as a terrorist group, effective April 8, 2006, pursuant to the Criminal Code.
"The decision to list the LTTE is long overdue and something the previous
government did not take seriously enough to act upon," said Minister Day. "Our
government is clearly determined to take decisive steps to ensure the safety
of Canadians against terrorism."
In listing the LTTE, the Government of Canada conducted an extensive
analysis of security information and intelligence to ensure the stringent
legal test outlined in the Criminal Code was met. Canada is also meeting its
international commitments to prevent terrorists from using the banking system
to further their terrorist activities.
The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Foreign Affairs, supporting this
decision, reiterated the Government of Canada's resolve to help achieve a
negotiated settlement to the situation in Sri Lanka. "The LTTE's repeated use
of violence since signing a ceasefire agreement is unacceptable and seriously
calls into question its commitment to the peace process," said Minister
MacKay. "The Sri Lankan government must also fulfill its pledge to bring a
negotiated resolution to the conflict. Canada will continue to work with
international supporters of the peace process to help the parties reach a
resolution."
The LTTE has been in armed conflict with the Sri Lankan Government since
1983. This organization is known for its commitment to using indiscriminate
terror tactics and suicide bombings. Since the commencement of conflict more
than 20 years ago, over 64 000 deaths have occurred.
The objective of the Criminal Code list is to help combat terrorist
activities, including impeding terrorist financing. It is illegal for any
person to provide support, facilitate or participate in the activities of a
terrorist group. This includes providing any financial support.
"This listing is meant to support the Tamil community in Canada who are
law-abiding and hard working people who have left their country of origin to
build a better life for themselves and their families in Canada - where the
rule of law and human rights are respected," said Minister Day.
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EDC to introduce new program to make cross border trade with the U.S. easier and quicker
OTTAWA - Export Development Canada (EDC) will launched a new loan facility to help Canadian small- and-medium-sized-enterprises meet U.S. Customs-Trade Partners Against Terrorism security guidelines.
The new program was launched during a speech by Benoit Daignault, Senior Vice-President of Business Development, to the I.E. Canada Conference (Canadian Association of Importers and Exporters) on Tuesday, April 11 at 9:10 AM EST at the Renaissance Toronto Airport Hotel.
The theme of the speech was Trading with Your Neighbour: the New Price of Trust. Canada and the U.S. have one of the most open, friendly and "trusting" trading relationships in the world. What are the changes and challenges that can disrupt the flow of goods and services between Canada and the U.S. and drag down business results? The speech emphasized ways to adapt to new U.S. requirements for more border security in trade, including EDC's new loan facility to help smaller businesses make this happen.
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2006 State of the City of Kitchener Address
KITCHENER - Nearly 300 business and community leaders were in attendance this April 7 as Mayor Carl Zehr presented the 2006 State of the City Address on behalf of City Council.
The theme of the fourth annual speech was Kitchener's unique way of engaging citizens in the decision-making process. Mayor Zehr credited community members for getting involved and making their voices heard, saying they are helping to shape a better city.
The ''Who Are You Kitchener?'' process, led by the Compass Kitchener committee of citizens, is the broadest citizen engagement process the City has ever undertaken. Results of the process, which aims to produce an identity statement and 20-year vision for the City, will be reported to Council in June.
Other examples of citizen engagement include:
CulturePlan II, which was developed through one and a half years of community consultation involving nearly 1000 community members.
The City's economic development strategy, including the $110 million Economic Development Investment Fund, which was developed through a series of interactive public meetings.
The selection of a site for the new twin pad arena, when staff consulted residents on options before making a recommendation to Council.
A series of community meetings that preceded the location of Wilfrid Laurier University's Faculty of Social Work in downtown Kitchener.
A Student Housing Strategy developed by a team that included the City, Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Waterloo, downtown neighbourhood associations, residents and businesses.
A fifteen-year plan for the City's leisure and recreation facilities, to which citizens provided input through surveys, focus groups and public meetings.
The consultation currently taking place on the future of Doon Valley golf course.
An extensive consultation on the proposed new central library on the Centre Block, including public meetings, focus groups, surveys, and community presentations. A citizens' forum on the project will be held in May.
The city's high level of volunteerism was cited as another example of how Kitchener citizens are engaged in their community. Mayor Zehr noted that volunteers help ensure the city's good quality of life, saying, ''I would like to thank all those who are changing our city for the better, often without a lot of fanfare.''
Mayor Zehr remarked that Kitchener's collaborative way of doing things is contributing to the city's economic success. The Kitchener Census Metropolitan Area, which is comprised of the region except for two townships, has the second lowest unemployment rate in Ontario. The local economy is continuing to diversify with a growing education and knowledge creation cluster that includes two university campuses in downtown Kitchener.
He concluded, ''To succeed, two things must happen. Elected leaders must continue to actively listen and weigh different views to ensure decisions reflect the community's vision. And citizens must continue to get involved, and never give up on the hard work of building a stronger, more sustainable community.''
Net proceeds from the breakfast event went to the Kitchener and Waterloo Community Foundation. The Foundation provides funds for a number of local charities.
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Guelph water better than provincial and federal standards
In 2005, more than 15,000 microbiological and chemical tests were performed on Guelph water samples in accordance with the Ministry of the Environment Drinking-Water Systems Regulation (DWSR). The tests confirm that in all cases, drinking water supplied to all customers by the City of Guelph Waterworks Division was safe and exceeded levels required by all Ontario and Canadian health-related standards. This information is among the highlights contained in Waterworks’ recent Annual and Summary Report.
Accredited independent laboratories and certified Waterworks operators performed the water quality tests in accordance with industry standard protocols. Results show that the water supply serviced by the system met the requirements of both the Provincial Drinking-Water Systems Regulation 170/03 and the Ontario Drinking-Water Quality Standards 169/03. Results are outlined in Waterworks’ 2005 Annual and Summary Compliance Report, a requirement of Guelph’s Consolidated Certificate of Approval, which has been submitted to City Council.
“We are proud of Waterworks’ success and of the high standard of excellence set by employees,” said Janet Laird, Director of Environmental Services at the City of Guelph. “Not only have we provided clean, safe drinking water to the residents of the City of Guelph, but we have done so while maintaining and upgrading our water supply system.”
Upgrades to the system included bringing the Park, Emma, and Downey supply facilities into compliance with the new Ministry of Environment procedure B13-3, “Chlorination of Potable Water Supplies in Ontario.” The upgrade ensures that water treated by these facilities receives the provincially mandated level of disinfection.
“We strive to provide customers and the community with valued service through responsible water resource management,” said Laird. “Waterworks provides and promotes reliable, cost effective systems for the safe delivery of consistently high-quality water.”
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ONTARIO GOVERNMENT PROMOTES LITERACY IN WATERLOO REGION
Grant Will Support Programs at Local Libraries but news is unclear if Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge libraries will recieve any grant money. Waterloo Region manages only rural libraries locates in around the three centres.
WATERLOO REGION — The Ontario government is helping to promote literacy and lifelong learning in Waterloo Region with a grant to Waterloo Regional Library, John Milloy, MPP for Kitchener Centre announced April 7.
The Waterloo Regional Library is among the libraries to benefit from this program, and will receive a grant of $10,500 for each of its 10 branches, for a total of $105,000.
“This is great news for the people of Waterloo Region,” said Milloy. “Families in our community can go to the library for help with basic reading and writing skills. The library recognizes the challenges of living in a small community, and will use this new funding for programs and services that meet the needs of local learners.”
Nearly 550 rural, remote, francophone and First Nation public libraries that serve communities of under 20,000 people are eligible to receive funding under a new $6 million initiative to encourage family literacy.
The Ontario government views libraries as key partners in delivering on its education priorities.It is investing $15 million overall to enhance the vital role of public and First Nations libraries as community hubs of literacy, learning and access to information. The literacy initiative includes a $200,000 grant to the Federation of Ontario Public Libraries to market the literacy achievements of Ontario’s libraries and conduct research. Other new initiatives include $8 million to support the Ontario Digital Library and $1 million to improve library services in Northern Ontario.
“Ontario’s public and First Nations libraries help to build strong communities across the province,” said Minister of Culture Caroline Di Cocco. “These new investments will help ensure that our libraries can meet today’s needs and tomorrow’s expectations.” |
US Shareholders See Risky Corporate Political Behavior As Threat to Shareholder Value, Demand Reform, CPA Poll Finds
Washington, D.C. An “overwhelming majority” of American shareholders express concern that company political spending “puts corporations at legal risk and endangers” shareholder value, according to a poll released today. A similar majority want companies to adopt political disclosure and accountability.
The poll found a striking 85 percent agreed that the “lack of transparency and oversight in corporate political activity encourages behavior” that threatens shareholder value. 94 percent supported disclosure and 84 percent backed board oversight and approval of “all direct and indirect [company] political spending.”
Commissioned by the Center for Political Accountability (CPA), the survey is the first in-depth look at shareholder attitudes on corporate political spending. It was conducted by Mason-Dixon Polling & Research, a leading non-partisan public opinion firm. Based on interviews with 800 adult shareholders between March 6 and 9, 2006, the poll has a margin of error of +/- 3.5 percentage points. It is available at www.politicalaccountability.net.
“Corporations are now catching up with the American shareholder in recognizing the simple proposition that they should disclose and account for all that they spend politically,” said CPA co-director Bruce F. Freed. “This confirms what we are seeing with the increasing recognition of the threat and the need for reform.”
According to Larry Harris, principal of Mason-Dixon, “The survey clearly documents that an overwhelming majority of American shareholders support these straight forward reforms. Shareholders across the political and demographic spectrum want to know that the companies in which they invest do not engage in risky behaviors that threaten the value of their investment.”
A non-partisan, non-profit organization, the Center is mounting the first sustained shareholder campaign to convince companies that disclosure and board oversight of their political activity is in their and their shareholders’ best interest. Under current law, companies aren’t required to fully report and account for their political activity, including payments to trade associations that are used for political purposes. Through the efforts of the Center and a group of institutional investors, a growing number of companies have agreed to disclose and have their boards oversee their political activity.
In a strong message to mutual funds, 85 percent of shareholders said that funds and other equity managers should vote their proxies for political reform resolutions. As for their company proxies, 87 percent said they would vote them for those resolutions.
Other key survey findings include:
73 percent agreed that corporate political spending is often undertaken to advance the private political interests of corporate executives rather than the company's interest.
80 percent said it was “inappropriate” for company political payments to trade associations to be used for “controversial social agendas that have nothing to do with the corporation’s business.”
95 percent said companies should ensure that their payments to trade associations used for political purposes should be “consistent with company policies and fully disclosed.”
59 percent felt that current law and regulation on corporate political spending did not provide sufficient checks or accountability on corporate boards.
By an 8 to 1 margin, shareholders said that they’d have “more confidence” in investing in companies that had disclosure and board oversight of their political spending.
By at least 84 percent, shareholders supported the CPA’s reform proposals that call for companies to:
-disclose political contributions made with corporate funds and payments to trade associations used for political purposes,
- post their political spending guidelines,
- require board oversight of all direct and indirect political spending, and
-identify corporate officers who manage the company’s political contributions.
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New Code of Ethics in Parliament - Foreign to Canadians
By Catherine Whelan Costen,
Our outrage, frustration, and disgust has resulted in exactly what we have come to expect - Democracy is failing! We the people are wrong again! There is nothing to be angry about people..move along. Can't let it go? Fine then. We shall change the rules. So, last month another decision was made which will require new rules! This time it is an 'ethical' decision.
What does the word, 'ethics' mean? Encarta Dictionary says, a 'code of
morality' is, ' a system of moral principles governing the appropriate
conduct for an individual or group'. This is where the issue gets murky.
A moral code for a group of individuals can vary. What is the code among
thieves for instance? What about a code for living on the street as
opposed to in a mansion on the hill?
It seems the people have a different, in my opinion superior code. In
his report, Federal ethics commissioner(appointed by the PM to enforce
his ethics), Bernard Shapiro wrote in his report regarding the
Emerson/Harper affair; "In the final analysis, the most appropriate
place to settle issues of this kind is not in the office of the ethics
commissioner but in Parliament itself." If a matter of ethics, is not
handled by the ethics commissioner, what is the purpose of the office?
Instead, he recommends that these lawmakers, make a ne | |
