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In the realm of public affairs, democracy serves as the foundation for effective governance and civic participation. As a public affairs firm, comprehending the nuances of democratic principles is not just a professional requisite but a guiding philosophy. This article explores the symbiotic relationship between public affairs and democracy, emphasizing the pivotal role that informed advocacy plays in shaping democratic discourse.

Democracy, anchored in representation, participation, and accountability, lays the groundwork for a vibrant civil society. Public affairs professionals contribute to this engagement by upholding values of openness, inclusivity, and transparency. Their role is essential in strengthening democratic institutions.

At the core of public affairs lies the commitment to informed decision-making. Public affairs professionals facilitate dynamic exchanges, providing stakeholders with accurate information and fostering public discourse that transcends partisan lines. Through strategic communication and stakeholder engagement, they contribute to well-informed decision-making processes in a healthy democracy.

Democracy thrives when citizens actively participate. Public affairs firms act as catalysts for citizen engagement, organizing forums, advocating for accessible information, and leveraging digital platforms. They empower citizens to voice concerns and contribute to policy-making dialogues. In times of crisis, democratic resilience is tested. Public affairs firms, with crisis management expertise, play a crucial role in maintaining public trust through transparent communication. Their integrity and accountability contribute to the resilience of democratic systems.

Collaboration and the exchange of best practices contribute to the global advancement of democratic ideals.

Democracy and public affairs are intertwined, with each reinforcing the other in a continuous cycle of engagement and advocacy. Public affairs professionals, as champions of democracy in action, shape a future where informed civic engagement stands at the forefront of governance.

Understanding Lobbyist Registration under the Federal Lobbying Act

Are you unsure whether you need to register as a lobbyist under the federal Lobbying Act? Here are three key questions to help determine if registration is necessary: 1. Are you paid to lobby? Lobbyists must be compensated for communicating with the federal government. Volunteers and individuals acting on their own behalf are exempt. Consultants and in-house lobbyists fall under this category . 2. Are you communicating with a “federal public office holder”? This includes a broad range of federal government employees, officials, and members. Communication can be direct or indirect, such as through grassroots campaigns. 3. Are you communicating about changing the state of play? Lobbying involves influencing federal laws, policies, programs, regulations, or the awarding of federal grants and contributions. Consultant lobbyists must register if they arrange meetings between public office holders and others. It is important to note that the requirement to register is triggered when agreeing to any lobbying activity, even if not immediately executed. Routine requests for information or clarification of existing federal laws, policies, or regulations are exempt. If you answered “yes” to all three questions, you may need to register as a lobbyist. It’s not necessary to have “lobbyist” in your job title or description; activities like explaining an employer’s position to regulators could qualify. Stay informed, and if in doubt, consult the Office of the Commissioner of Lobbying for guidance on lobbyist registration under the Lobbying Act.

Federal Government’s New Approach to Housing

Federal Funding to Increase Student Housing: On January 29, 2024, the Department of Finance Canada announced initiatives to boost student housing funding as part of Canada’s economic plan. The government plans to offer low-cost loans to facilitate the construction of more student housing on and off-campus, addressing the challenge of housing shortages near educational institutions. This move is part of broader reforms outlined in the 2023 Fall Economic Statement to unlock financing for new home construction. In addition to supporting student housing, the federal government is making homeownership more accessible through tax-free First Home Savings Accounts. Over 500,000 Canadians have already utilized this program, contributing up to $40,000 tax-free for their first down payment. The government’s economic plan is also advancing housing construction through the $4 billion Housing Accelerator Fund, with 31 agreements signed to expedite the construction of over 500,000 new homes across Canada in the next decade. Simultaneously, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Industry is leveraging enhanced powers under the Affordable Housing and Groceries Act to promote competition in the retail grocery market, aiming to ensure maximum choice and competitive prices for Canadians.

Federal Funding to Support Housing for Asylum Seekers: In response to the growing number of people claiming asylum in Canada due to increasing global migration, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, the Honourable Marc Miller, announced an additional $362.4 million in funding for the Interim Housing Assistance Program (IHAP) for the 2023–2024 fiscal year. The IHAP, a cost-sharing initiative between the federal government and provincial/municipal governments, aims to address the extraordinary interim housing pressures resulting from the rising volumes of asylum claimants. This funding will support provinces and municipalities facing a surge in demand for shelter space, preventing asylum claimants from experiencing homelessness. The government emphasizes its commitment to collaboration across all levels of government to find long-term solutions to the challenges posed by the increasing number of individuals seeking refuge in Canada. This funding is in addition to the $212 million provided last summer through IHAP.

What is the Ontario Financial Cycle and how can your voice be heard?

The financial cycle is a yearly parliamentary process where Parliament analyzes the government’s financial priorities, deliberates on budgetary policy and revenue generation, examines projected public spending through estimates, and ensures proper accountability for expenses. The House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance conducts pre-budget consultations in the fall of each year, seeking input from Canadians on recommendations for the upcoming government budget. The Ministry of Finance, led by the Minister of Finance, develops the budget based on these proposals and public feedback. The budget, outlining fiscal, economic, and social policies, is presented in the Legislative Assembly, sparking a debate among members. Following the debate, a vote is held for budget approval, and if successful, the government can implement its spending and revenue plans for the fiscal year. Ongoing oversight through parliamentary committees and public input ensures transparency and accountability, with the possibility of mid-year updates or supplementary budgets if needed. This cyclical process allows for effective management of the province’s finances in Ontario. SME’s, non-profits, workers, families and communities can advocate for what they need and what they want to see by submitting a proposal or offering feedback or attending an in-person consultation to share information with the government. If you’d like to prepare a proposal for the next budget, we can help you get started.

The Canadian Cancer Society’s alarming data reveals that in 2023, around 1,550 Canadian women faced cervical cancer, with about 400 deaths. This silent yet deadly disease, primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), can be largely prevented through vaccination. However, Ontario lags behind other provinces in providing accessible and affordable HPV vaccines.

The “Make HPV Vaccine Free for Me” campaign, started by Gillian Cameron, emphasizes the need for Ontario to offer free HPV vaccination to young adults. This move is not just a health initiative but a moral obligation. Dr. Gilla Shapiro from the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre supports this, highlighting the necessity for accessible immunization programs to effectively prevent HPV-related cancers.

Providing free HPV vaccines goes beyond healthcare, it’s the ethical way to safeguard lives and preserve the emotional well-being of individuals and communities. It’s time for Ontario to recognize the importance of this vaccine and make it freely available.

SWON Public Affairs is proud to play an important role in the “Make HPV Vaccine Free for Me” campaign.

SWON Public Affairs is proud to announce that our President and Founder, Kirsten Krose, received national recognition from the Canadian Small Business Magazine!

 

Kirsten stands out for her extensive experience in government relations and strategic communications. Under her leadership, SWON Public Affairs has accomplished impactful campaigns to bridge diverse sectors and influence public policy through efficient advocacy and stakeholder engagement. These include securing a significant contract with a major health organization, facilitating a partnership between a top tech firm and government, and improving the public image of a local environmental group.

 

Kirsten has proven herself as a dedicated leader and a key player in southwestern Ontario public affairs. Congratulations Kirsten!

Lessons in Public Affairs: Public Participation Matters:

Government budgets are more than financial plans; they are powerful tools that shape a nation’s course of development. Public participation in this process is essential for transparency, accountability, and ensuring the representation of diverse citizen needs. Public involvement establishes transparency by allowing citizens to understand fund allocation. This engagement fosters trust and credibility, creating a direct line of communication between the government and its citizens. Inclusivity is key, considering the varied perspectives of society. Involving the public in budget discussions taps into this diversity, ensuring policies and allocations reflect the broader interests of the population. Public participation facilitates informed decision-making, with citizens offering insights into the real-world impact of budget decisions. This knowledge contributes to more effective policies, aligning government spending with actual community needs. Beyond a democratic ideal, public involvement creates a sense of ownership and responsibility, fostering a stronger connection between the government and the governed. Efficient resource allocation is enabled by public participation, identifying and prioritizing critical areas of investment. Understanding citizen requirements allows governments to allocate resources effectively, directing funds towards projects that genuinely benefit the community. In conclusion, public participation in government budgets is crucial for effective governance, enhancing transparency, inclusivity, and informed decision-making. As nations strive for equitable and sustainable development, the active involvement of the public in the budgeting process remains essential for responsible and responsive governance.

Federal Financial Outlook: Canada’s Housing Action Plan with a Local Impact:

Canada’s Housing Action Plan addresses the current housing affordability crisis, acknowledging that the dream of home ownership is increasingly elusive for many Canadians due to soaring costs. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation estimates a need for 3.5 million additional homes by 2030 to restore affordability. The federal government is spearheading a national effort to address this challenge, with current investments leading to record housing starts in major cities. The federal investment in housing has increased by $9 billion compared to 2013-14, and measures are being taken to incentivize rental housing construction, protect renters, and facilitate homeownership. A collaborative approach involving federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal governments, along with various stakeholders, is emphasized to meet the housing demand. The government is committed to ongoing efforts to accelerate housing construction, reduce prices, and encourages all levels of government to contribute to building more homes swiftly. One of the investments from the federal government is the $4 billion Housing Accelerator Fund to help cut red tape and fast-track the creations of 100,000 new homes across Canada. The federal government signed an agreements with London, Ontario to deliver $74 million in federal funding, allowing for high-density development without the need for re-zoning, allowing for up to four units to be built on a single property in low-density neighbourhoods, disposal of city-owned land for more development, and creating partnerships with non-profit housing providers to build more affordable homes.

Let’s Talk Budget 2024:

Let’s talk Budget 2024 is the federal government’s engagement process for Pre-budget talks. Pre-budget talks are a chance for people all over Canada to voice their thoughts on how the government can create an economy that benefits everyone. What matters most to you? What issues do you think we’ll face in the future? You can be part of the discussion by filling out our short questionnaire. The questionnaire will be open until February 9, 2024. If you have more to say, you can also send in a detailed submission. Canadians are also encouraged to share their ideas and comments directly with the Department of Finance. Find out more at www.letstalkbudget24.ca.

Ontario Government Introduces New Laws Here’s What You Need to Know:

Childcare Safe-Arrival Rules: Effective January 1, 2024, all childcare operators in Ontario are required to develop policies outlining steps to closely monitor when a child does not arrive or is not picked up as expected. Aimed at preventing tragic incidents of young children left inadvertently in hot cars, these changes bring safe-arrival systems, already in place in schools, to childcare settings.

Penalties for Inappropriate Access to Health Information: Beginning on New Year’s Day, Ontario’s Information and Privacy Commissioner can impose fines on individuals or organizations that inappropriately access or share a patient’s personal health information. This measure aims to enhance protection and privacy for patients by deterring unauthorized access to their sensitive health data.

Tow-Truck Industry Regulations: New regulations in the tow-truck industry, effective January 1, include granting customers specific rights. Customers now have the right to provide consent for towing, determine the destination of the towed vehicle, access their vehicle afterward, and have clear rights regarding invoices and payments. The province will also take over the tow-truck licensing regime from municipalities, mandating certification for all towing operators and vehicle storage companies.

Additions to Invasive Species List: Ontario is adding several organisms, including killer shrimp, most crayfish, and specific plants like the tree of heaven, to the invasive species list.

Occupational Health and Safety Act Updates: The Occupational Health and Safety Act is being updated to enhance safety for crane operators on construction sites.

Two new regulations coming into effect will focus on proper crane installation and regular inspection and maintenance.

Alcohol Purchase Across Provincial Borders: Ontario is extending rules governing the purchase of alcohol across provincial borders until January 1, 2026. Consumers will be allowed to buy alcohol directly from businesses in other provinces, facilitating greater flexibility in alcohol purchases.

City of London Municipal Budget Has Been Released, Now It’s Your Turn for Input:

Earlier in 2023, City Council approved the 2023-2027 Strategic Plan for the city, with the following areas of focus: Reconciliation, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion Housing and Homelessness Wellbeing and Safety Safe London for Women, Girls, and Gender-Diverse and Trans People Economic Growth, Culture, and Prosperity Mobility and Transportation Climate Action and Sustainable Growth Well-Run City The 2024-2027 Multi-Year Budget includes $5.3 billion in operating expenditures funded through $3.3 billion in property taxes and $2.0 billion in non-tax revenues. These figures represent the base budget to maintain existing service levels and equate to a 4.9% average annual increase to property taxes. The budget contains 87 business cases, 13 of which are legislative changes, 72 are additional investments and 2 are strategic disinvestments. The city is preparing to host a Budget Open House as well as a series of Public Participation Meetings and is also accepting public input on business cases virtually until January 29. The Budget Open House (no formal presentation) will include details specific to the 2024 to 2027 Multi-Year Budget. Pre-registration is not required. The Budget Open House is scheduled for January 10, 2024, 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Committee Room #1, 2nd Floor, City Hall, 300 Dufferin Avenue. The budget team will be hosting multiple pop-up information boots around London throughout January to speak with residents about the budget. Attending a public participation meeting plays a pivotal role in fostering transparency, community involvement, and informed decision-making. Please visit this website to attend a Public Participation Meeting Pop-Up near you: https://getinvolved.london.ca/budget.

Working with a non-profit? Don’t forget about Advocacy

Advocacy is a dynamic and purposeful form of activism that involves actively supporting and promoting a cause, policy, or group to bring about positive change. For non-profit organizations, advocacy is a critical tool that goes beyond traditional charitable work. It is a strategic approach to address the root causes of issues and create lasting impact by influencing policies, systems, and societal attitudes. Non-profits often find themselves at the forefront of advocating for social justice, human rights, environmental conservation, and various other causes. By engaging in advocacy efforts, these organizations can amplify the voices of the communities they serve, champion their rights, and work towards systemic change. Advocacy enables non-profits to move beyond providing immediate assistance to addressing the structural and policy issues that contribute to the challenges their constituents face. One of the key benefits of advocacy for non-profits is its potential to create lasting and widespread change. By actively participating in shaping policies and influencing decision-makers, non-profits can contribute to the development and implementation of laws and regulations that better serve their target populations. Advocacy also helps non-profits raise awareness about pressing issues, mobilize support, and build partnerships with like-minded organizations and individuals. Moreover, advocacy enhances the credibility and visibility of non-profits. By being vocal champions for their causes, these organizations can attract public attention, media coverage, and support from various stakeholders. This increased visibility can lead to expanded networks, increased funding opportunities, and greater influence in shaping the discourse around the issues they tackle. In conclusion, advocacy is not merely an option but a fundamental strategy for non-profits aiming to make a substantial and enduring impact. By advocating for change at the policy level, non-profits can address the root causes of societal issues, contribute to systemic change, and create a more just and equitable world for the communities they serve.

SWON Public Affairs Government Affairs London Ontario Advocacy

Introducing the Canadian Mortgage Charter for Tailored Relief in Challenging Times

The 2023 Fall Economic Statement introduces the New Canadian Mortgage Charter, a proactive response by the federal government to address the concerns of Canadians facing increasing mortgage payments due to high interest rates. Acknowledging the rapid rise in interest rates, the government emphasizes the need to protect individuals who have invested their savings and earnings into their homes. The charter aims to inform Canadians about available mortgage relief options and unveils new measures to ensure tailored assistance. Under the Canadian Mortgage Charter, federally-regulated financial institutions are expected to work closely with mortgage holders facing financial difficulties on their principal residence. The government emphasizes that these institutions should offer fair, reasonable, and timely relief measures. Proactive outreach to vulnerable borrowers and the efficient use of available tools are emphasized, with the goal of supporting Canadians through temporary financial stress caused by elevated interest rates, ultimately enabling them to remain in their homes. The federal government commits to closely monitoring the implementation and compliance of relief measures by financial institutions, guided by the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada’s directives.

Ontario Government Introduces Progressive Legislation to Safeguard Workers in the Restaurant and Hospitality Industry

The Ontario government is set to transform labor protections for over 400,000 workers in the restaurant and hospitality industry with the introduction of the Working for Workers Four Act, 2023. This innovative legislation aims to amend the province’s Employment Standards Act, focusing on crucial issues to safeguard the well-being of employees in this vital sector. Key features of the proposed Act include the prohibition of unpaid trial shifts and a clear directive that employers cannot deduct wages in instances of dine and dash, gas and dash, or other stolen property incidents. David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development, emphasizes the unacceptable nature of workers facing financial losses or harm due to criminal activities beyond their control. Statistics underscore the prevalence of issues such as one in 20 diners leaving a restaurant without payment, contributing to substantial financial losses. The proposed legislation not only tackles unpaid trial shifts and wage deductions but also addresses tip-sharing policies. Employers must communicate clearly in the workplace if they adopt pooled tip-sharing, with transparency aimed at ensuring fair compensation and understanding among service workers regarding tip calculation and distribution. In response to the rise of digital payment platforms, the Act seeks to empower workers by obliging employers to allow employees to choose the account for tip deposits when using direct deposit. Beyond immediate concerns, the Working for Workers Four Act envisions broader workplace fairness, including initiatives to promote salary transparency, privacy, increased benefits for injured workers and firefighters, and additional support for newcomers entering the workforce. Part of a comprehensive legislative package building on previous Acts, these measures, if passed, promise to significantly enhance earnings for millions of workers and foster the integration of newcomers, ultimately contributing to a more robust and equitable Ontario.

Thank you for being apart of our Newsletter

Thank you for being a valued reader of our newsletter. Your continued interest and engagement have been the driving force behind our efforts to deliver meaningful content and updates to your inbox regularly. Your dedication to staying connected with us inspires us to go above and beyond in curating relevant and informative articles that resonate with your interests and needs. We are committed to providing you with valuable insights, exciting news, and inspiring stories that enrich your experience as a part of our community. Thank you for being an essential part of our newsletter family. Your support encourages us to keep delivering content that adds value to your life and keeps you informed and inspired. If there’s anything specific you would like to see in future editions or any suggestions you’d like to share, please feel free to reach out to us. Your input is highly valued, and we are always eager to hear from you. Thank you for your unwavering support, and we look forward to sharing more exciting updates with you soon.

In a significant stride toward addressing the gender gap in healthcare, the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health (HESA) recently launched a comprehensive study on women’s health. Amid heightened scrutiny over existing disparities in healthcare and increased strains across the nation, this initiative reflects a crucial step towards understanding and rectifying the unique health challenges faced by women.

The study ranges from improved mental health resources for women to enhanced breast cancer screening and reproductive health services, along with necessary protections for LGBTQ2 and Indigenous women in Canada.

A major topic of concern was cervical cancer screenings. Several provinces are contemplating a shift from the traditional Pap test to the human papillomavirus (HPV) test as the primary screening method. These changes aim to enhance the accuracy and efficacy of screenings, ensuring early detection and intervention. SWON Public Affairs is proud to work with Gillian Cameron and her campaign to make the HPV vaccine free for anyone under the age of 26 in Ontario.

The start of this study represents a pivotal moment in the efforts to address existing healthcare gender gaps and create a more inclusive and equitable healthcare landscape for all women in Canada.

Yesterday, Canada’s Minister of Finance and Deputy Prime Minister, Chrystia Freeland, unveiled the 2023 Fall Economic Statement. Cost of living is the top issue Canadians face today. The holiday season is upon us, but most Canadians are wondering how they’ll afford their groceries and pay their rent on top of buying gifts for their loved ones. This issue, coupled with the housing crisis, has caused Trudeau’s government to fall in the polls. This year’s FES includes clear-cut spending measures to address the cost of living and housing crisis. These measures are an attempt to change course and turn things around for the Trudeau Liberals.

Housing and Affordability

  • Investments of over $20 billion over the next 6 years to incentivize construction of new housing supply.
  • Cracking down on unfair junk fees charged by banks, airlines, and telecommunications providers. These include NSF fees and roaming charges.
  • Amending the Competition Act to mitigate the effects that large companies have in predatory pricing.

Clean Energy

  • Expanding the Clean Tech Investment Tax Credit to include electricity or heat producing equipment from waste biomass.
  • Expanding the Canada Growth Fund to be the principal federal entity for issuing carbon contracts for difference, allocating $7 billion out of its $15 billion budget.

Taxation

  • Amending the Excise Tax Act to eliminate the GST and HST for psychotherapy and counselling services.
  • Advancing legislation to implement a minimum tax for multinationals that use Canada as a tax haven.

This year’s federal FES is centred on showcasing the government’s commitment to addressing that issues Canadians most care about, particularly concentrating in key constituencies in Ontario in which the Liberals depend on for support. With this announcement, Trudeau is hoping Canadians see his government as one that will make life more affordable.

This marks the official start for the federal government to kick off consultations for the 2024 budget. If you’d like to submit a budget proposal but don’t know where to start, at SWON Public Affairs we are ready to ensure your voice is heard. Give us a call to book a free consultation!

 

Photo Credits: The Globe and Mail

SWON Public Affairs London Ontario Government Relations

What is Public Policy, And Why Is It Important To You?

Public policy refers to the set of principles, guidelines, decisions, and actions adopted and implemented by governments or other authoritative bodies to address specific issues or achieve particular goals within a society. It encompasses a wide range of areas, including social, economic, environmental, and political aspects.

Understanding public policy is important for several reasons. Public policy affects the lives of citizens on a daily basis. Being informed about policies enables individuals to make educated decisions about who to vote for, what causes to support, and how to engage in the democratic process effectively. When citizens understand public policies, they can hold elected officials accountable for their decisions. This knowledge allows voters to evaluate whether politicians are fulfilling their promises and working in the best interests of the public.

Public policies have a significant impact on the social and economic well-being of a society. Policies related to healthcare, education, the environment, and the economy shape the quality of life for individuals and communities. Understanding these policies can help citizens advocate for changes that benefit them and society as a whole. Public policy often addresses complex issues such as poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability. Understanding these policies is essential for identifying and implementing effective solutions to these challenges. Public policies also determine how resources, such as tax revenue, are allocated. Understanding these policies can help individuals and organizations navigate government programs, access funding, and advocate for equitable resource distribution.

While the idea of public policy may be complex or new, understanding public policy is essential for informed citizenship, holding officials accountable, promoting social and economic well-being, solving complex problems, allocating resources, and actively participating in the democratic process. It empowers individuals and communities to shape the policies that impact their lives and society as a whole.

 

Supreme Court Ruling Could Reshape Canada’s Energy Landscape

In a groundbreaking decision last month, the Supreme Court of Canada dealt a significant blow to large portions of the federal government’s impact assessment law, potentially heralding a new era for energy development in the country. According to Lisa Baiton, CEO of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP), this ruling has the potential to reset the policy landscape, providing a more favorable environment for the oil and gas industry. The federal impact assessment law, formerly known as Bill C-69, outlined criteria for assessing the environmental impacts of major projects. However, Baiton argued that the legislation’s broad scope created regulatory uncertainty, deterring companies from investing in projects due to fears of potential disapproval. The Supreme Court’s ruling, declaring the law largely unconstitutional and infringing on provincial jurisdiction, has been broadly welcomed by business groups nationwide. Baiton sees this decision as a game-changer, resetting the policy landscape. While optimistic, CAPP is keenly watching the federal government’s response to the court’s decision. Federal Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault believes the environmental impact legislation can be fixed by rewriting specific sections. He also assured that greenhouse gas emission regulations for oil and gas production would proceed as planned, unaffected by the court decision. Baiton, however, hopes the ruling will make it more challenging for the federal government to override provincial preferences in energy development. One area of contention is the proposed punitive cap on greenhouse gas emissions, which the oil and gas industry argues would limit production growth, falling under provincial jurisdiction, particularly in Alberta. Additionally, concerns linger over the feasibility of meeting the proposed clean electricity regulations, with Alberta asserting they are unattainable within the given timeframe. Alberta Environment Minister Rebecca Shulz, part of the panel discussion, framed Bill C-69 as part of a continuous rollout of barriers by the federal government. She noted the Supreme Court decision aligns with Alberta’s ongoing efforts, including a nationwide ad campaign, to push back against clean electricity regulations, which the province believes will escalate energy prices and strain the electricity grid.

 

London Economic Development Corporation’s new Campaign: Don’t Tell Toronto

A new recruitment strategy is all the buzz in London right now, created by London Economic Development Corporation- Don’t Tell Toronto. Right now, London Ontario has over 7,000 jobs available to fill, and LEDC is taking active steps to recruit a talented workforce to fill these positions. Have you considered making the move? Let’s look at what London, Ontario has to offer. London boasts numerous opportunities with some of Canada’s best employers. It’s not just a place to work; it’s a place to live and thrive. We’re painting a new picture for London, one that is full of opportunity, improved affordability in comparison to London, and equal job opportunity. Here’s some more numbers is case you have yet to experience everything here.356 Parks: From sprawling expanses to cozy corners, London offers 356 parks to unwind and enjoy nature. City-wide Trail System: Navigate the city with ease through its extensive trail system, perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling. Some more interesting facts about London, with approximately 7 million trees, the city breathes fresh air and provides a lush environment. London boasts a population density of 178.1 persons per square kilometer, a stark contrast to Toronto’s 4,149.5.

Please check out www.donttelltoronto.ca for more info.

Last week, Ontario’s Minister of Finance, Peter Bethlenfalvy, introduced the government’s 2023 Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review, commonly known as the Fall Economic Statement (FES). The FES outlined the government’s current and intended investments, centred around building key infrastructure, stimulating economic and job growth, and keeping costs down for Ontarians. In addition, the FES highlighted Ontario’s fiscal landscape, with a plan to balance the budget by 2025-2026.

 

Notable investments include:

  1. Launching the Ontario Infrastructure Bank. The arm-lengths bank will receive $3 billion in initial funding, and it will target projects with a focus in affordable housing, long-term care homes, energy, and transportation.
  2. $100 million investment into the Invest Ontario Fund. The province is making it a priority to attract companies and create jobs.
  3. Removal of the 8% provincial portion of the HST on new purpose-built rental housing. While the Federal government had already dropped their GST for the same purpose, Ontario has joined them in an effort to increase housing supply.
  4. An additional $12 million per year in tax credits for the critical minerals mining industry.

 

This marks the official start for the Ontario government to kick off consultations for the 2024 budget. If you’d like to submit a budget proposal and don’t know where to start, at SWON Public Affairs we are ready to ensure your voice is heard. Give us a call to book a free consultation!