MPP CALLS FOR EASTERN ONTARIO SECRETARIAT
(Toronto) - Leeds Grenville MPP, Bob Runciman, today tabled a resolution in the Ontario Legislature calling on the provincial government to establish an Eastern Ontario Secretariat.
In his announcement, the longtime MPP cited the growing loss of manufacturing jobs in the region and the on-going frustration of municipal officials trying to access the provincial government.
Runciman's resolution calls for the Secretariat to fall under the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade. "I believe that is the appropriate Ministry to address regional concerns that are primarily economic or have linkages to economic well-being," said Runciman.
"A Secretariat will provide a 'window' into government for Eastern Ontario residents and elected officials" said Runciman. "And it will also ensure that existing, and new, policies and programs are assessed for their impact on Eastern Ontario, and a Minister to hear and represent their interests."
Merrickville-Wolford Mayor and former Warden Doug Struthers endorsed Runciman's proposal as a "cost-effective and responsive" initiative that addresses widespread concerns.
"I strongly support the proposal and I will be encouraging municipal officials throughout Eastern Ontario to get behind this concept" said Struthers.
Runciman's motion is scheduled to be debated and voted on in late April.
Resolution:
"That, in the opinion of this House, the Ontario government should establish an eastern Ontario Secretariat as a special purpose office that supports the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade with main responsibilities to provide analytical and evaluative support in the assessment of existing and new policies and programs impacting eastern Ontario."
