Ford orders freeze on hiring

The incoming Doug Ford administration has ordered a government-wide freeze on hiring and discretionary spending until it can get a “true look” at the state of provincial finances.

A new directive details the changes aimed at reining in spending before Ford’s Progressive Conservatives — who promised $6 billion in unidentified “efficiencies” on the provincial budget — take power from outgoing Liberal Premier Kathleen Wynne on June 29.

“We made a promise to the people of Ontario that respect for taxpayers was coming back to Queen’s Park,” Ford spokesperson Jeff Silverstein said in a statement Monday.

All government ministries have been directed to halt new hires, except for “essential front-line services staff” in jails, policing, fire and developmental services.

Out-of-province travel is also restricted along with use of consultants, temporary help services, non-essential events and communications.

The directive stipulates “any expense that can be placed on hold without putting government service delivery or the public at risk” in health, safety and security matters.

However, the hiring freeze does not forbid Ontario Public Service employees from taking new jobs in the civil service but these moves must be tracked so the new government can be given a summary later.