Stiles: It’s time to put an end to Ford’s cash-for-access culture

QUEEN’S PARK – Marit Stiles, Leader of the Ontario NDP, introduced her plan to close fundraising loopholes that have created a cash-for-access culture within Ontario’s government.

“Democracy shouldn’t have a price tag,” said Stiles. “Ford says he’ll take a call from anyone, but he’s shown he’ll take only action when someone pays.”

Current legislation allows cabinet ministers to accept donations from those with business before their Ministries. New Democrats have introduced a motion to put an end to this practice and strengthen the rules in the Members’ Integrity Act.

“Today, the government has a choice,” said Stiles. “They can support our motion and show they’re willing to clean up their act, or they can keep putting their donors, their insiders, and their interests ahead of yours.”

“If they won’t act, New Democrats will. We’ll clean up the corruption, restore integrity, and make sure your government can deliver on the basics – building homes, hiring doctors, fixing schools, and making life more affordable.”

Background:

• Liberal and Conservative governments have set fundraising targets for cabinet ministers, bringing in large sums of money from parties with a vested interest in Ministerial business