‘Vindictive’ premier

Dear Editor:

I certainly do not agree with Vladimir Putin’s latest aggression towards Ukraine, which is unconscionable, but having Premier Doug Ford call Putin a “thug” is rich. Has Mr. Ford looked in the mirror lately?

Since Mr. Ford has come to power he has been vindictive, sinister in his approach to Ontarians.

His history since being elected,  of course supported by the fearful ministers who are afraid if they cause a misstep verbally they will be sent to the back benches, includes:

– cancelled investigators to attend nursing homes and address violations;

– passed legislation to protect “the folks” who own nursing homes from being sued (to hell with the residents and their families trying a redress the wrongs);

– cut to 12 the number of seats a political party requires to qualify for funding and research (the Liberals ended with seven seats. Again vindictiveness by Mr. Ford on full display. Quite immature by this premier and his ministers who supported this action);

– cut $46 million from the OPP budget (I of course will not allude to the spacious and luxurious van that has a Lazyboy and full screen TV which comes from the OPP budget for Mr. Ford’s entertainment);

– cut 70% of E-Health budget;

– Telemedicine laid off 14% of their staff;

– ignored advice concerning wet lands;

– ongoing use at will of MZOs (this government chooses to override the local elected individuals);

– building two highways that he claims are required and many planners have indicated are not required (billions of dollars added to the debt);

– delayed the Highway 6 bypass around Morriston;

– cut licence renewal fees (a $1 billion loss), why? Votes; and

– deleted tolls on two highways. why? Votes.

Oh my goodness, perhaps he’ll attempt to offer $1 beers again. And don’t get me started on the loss of Patrick Brown. What a loss to this province. He would have been a spectacular premier. 

A premier should not be vindictive they should be mature, responsible and consistent.

Robert Plamondon,
Mount Forest