Bill 57 threatens to undermine democracy

RE: GOVERNMENT AIMING TO UNDERMINE ACCOUNTABILITY SAFEGUARDS (NOV. 23)

Regardless of your political leanings or opinion of the current government at Queen’s Park, Gord Miller’s article should strike fear in the hearts of every Ontario citizen who believes in democracy.

Miller points out that Ontario Bill 57 undermines the independence of parliamentary officers and makes them subject to the retaliation of whatever party is in power, including loss of position and salary.

The roles of independent parliamentary officers are an integral part of our parliamentary democracy. Ontario has had such independent roles since 1886. They serve a vital watchdog role, reviewing government actions on behalf of Ontario residents, without influence from the government of the political party currently in power.

If Bill 57 passes, positions such as the auditor general will be subject to significant influence from the government they review and face reprisals for information released in their reports.

We must keep these roles independent and in place to help hold our current and future governments accountable, regardless of who is in power. Without these roles remaining independent, they can become little more than another cog in the political spin machine.

Contact your local MPP, Bill 57’s sponsor vic.fedeli@pc.ola.org and Premier Ford at doug.ford@pc.ola.org and tell them Parliamentary Officers must remain independent.

Terry Quinn, Burlington