(Queen’s Park) – Simcoe North MPP Garfield Dunlop today urged the McGuinty Liberals to scrap their controversial Ontario rebranding campaign and start keeping the 231 promises they made during the 2003 election campaign.

According to recent media reports, the trillium, Ontario’s floral emblem, was the first symbol to be considered for extinction by the Liberals until they apparently dropped the idea to avoid negative reaction from the public. Now, the McGuinty government is looking at changing the “Ontario Canada” logo that includes a small maple leaf.

“The McGuinty Liberals should stop tinkering with the trillium and other Ontario symbols and get on with the job of governing this province,” said Dunlop. “Changing Ontario’s logos won’t help people waiting for health care services, or improvements to our educational system.”

McGuinty’s rebranding exercise could cost the taxpayers of Ontario millions of dollars, depending on what the Premier decides to include in the project and which high-priced consultants he decides to hire. There have also been press reports about the government changing the provincial flag and the “Yours to discover” licence plate slogan.

“If the Premier thinks he can attract more business to Ontario by messing with symbols that have long been a part of Ontario’s history, then he just doesn’t get it,” said Dunlop. “A stronger economy that invites investment, as well as a strong health care system and a strong educational system, are the keys to bringing more business to Ontario.”

Contacts:
Garfield Dunlop
(705) 327-4500 (cell)