Ontario election: Leaders debate housing affordability, health care issues in Northern Ontario

During the Ontario election debate in North Bay, Ontario’s four main party leaders clashed on key issues such as healthcare, housing, and the pandemic, with a primary focus on Northern Ontario concerns like road maintenance and the revival of the Northlander train service.

Candidates Target Liberal Leader Del Duca

Progressive Conservative Leader Doug Ford and NDP Leader Andrea Horwath both targeted Liberal Leader Steven Del Duca, who is currently viewed as a key competitor according to polls. The debate, held at North Bay’s Capitol Centre and organized by the Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities, will be followed by a televised clash in Toronto on May 16.

Horwath Criticizes Ford’s Prioritization and Del Duca’s Record

Horwath criticized Ford for prioritizing his allies and large businesses, and accused Del Duca’s Liberals of neglecting Northern Ontario during their 15 years in power, notably cutting the Northlander train service.

Ford’s Vision for Mining and Infrastructure

Ford pitched his plan to develop mineral resources in the Ring of Fire for electric vehicle batteries, despite potential years of environmental assessments and consultations. The discussion also touched on the state of Northern highways, with Ford blaming Del Duca for past issues, while all leaders pledged to improve infrastructure.

Debate on Highway Development and Budget Allocation

The leaders debated the merits of Ford’s proposed $10-billion Highway 413, with Del Duca and Horwath criticizing it as a boon for suburban developers, while Ford defended it against claims of anti-development sentiment from his opponents.

Mental Health and Addictions: A Point of Contention

The debate also covered mental health and addiction services, with Horwath criticizing Ford’s cap on supervised drug-intake sites. Ford defended his record, citing increased funding for mental health services and new treatment beds in the North.

Green Leader’s Focus on Housing and Climate Change

Green Leader Mike Schreiner, participating in his first leaders’ debate, emphasized the need for more housing and outlined his climate-change plan, which aims to create green jobs in Northern Ontario.

Northern Ontario Election Policy Promises

The party leaders presented their platforms for Northern Ontario:

• Ford promised to restore the Northlander train service and invest $74 million in Highway 101.
• Horwath pledged to lift the cap on supervised drug-intake sites and hire 300 doctors, including specialists and mental health practitioners.
• Del Duca proposed an Ontario immigration plan to attract skilled workers and suggested covering tuition fees for medical and nursing students who work in rural areas.

Del Duca’s Commitment to Northlander Restoration

Del Duca reiterated his commitment to restoring the Northlander if he becomes premier, despite not reviving it during his tenure as transportation minister.

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