By Caribbean News Global 
TORONTO, Canada — The Ontario government is taking the first step in a made-in-Ontario plan for growth, renewal and economic recovery, with the introduction of the COVID-19 Economic Recovery Act, proposed legislation that lays the foundation to restart jobs and development, strengthen communities, and create the opportunity for people in every region of the province.
Details of the legislation were provided by premier Doug Ford, Steve Clark, minister of municipal affairs and housing, Prabmeet Sarkaria, associate minister of small business and red tape reduction, Christine Elliott, deputy premier and minister of health, and Rod Phillips, minister of finance.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has touched all Ontarians and created significant hardship for individuals, families and businesses,” said premier Ford. “People are relying on our government to help rebuild the province and get people back to work ― and that’s exactly what we’re doing, starting with this new legislation.”
If passed, the COVID-19 Economic Recovery Act will:
- Restart jobs and development to get Ontario’s economic engine roaring again by getting key infrastructure projects built faster, attracting more jobs and investment, and cutting red tape to help businesses adapt to the new environment.
- Strengthen communities by ensuring municipalities are equipped with the tools they need to continue to provide the critical services people rely on every day, including allowing municipalities and their local boards to continue to choose to hold meetings electronically at any time and putting in place a new community benefits charge to help municipalities pay for the infrastructure and services needed for growing communities.
- Create opportunity for people as they recover their lives and livelihoods by protecting consumers, modernizing services, improving the education system and removing the social and economic barriers that stand in the way of success for young people.
“We are working hand in hand with our municipal partners so they can emerge stronger and better able to meet the needs of local residents,” said minister Clark. “Ontario will continue to be a champion for communities and work closely with the federal government to help every community chart a path to a strong economic recovery.”
“Making Ontario a modern regulator — one that communicates clearly and operates effectively will free up our people and businesses to focus on what’s important: recovering and re-emerging stronger than before,” said minister Sarkaria. “By improving digital access to government and incorporating best practices, we’re empowering businesses to rebuild, rehire, and return to a period where their success fuels our economic growth. A modern Ontario is better for people and smarter for business.”
The government is committed to working in partnership with people, businesses and municipalities to respond to the challenges they face and support the long-term health and prosperity of Ontario’s economy.
