(Queen's Park) – Simcoe North MPP Garfield Dunlop rose today in the Ontario Legislature to move the adoption of the Speech from the Throne. Yesterday, Ontario's Lieutenant Governor delivered the Speech from the Throne in the Ontario Legislature to open the 4th Session of the 37th Parliament.

"On behalf of the people I represent in the great riding of Simcoe North," said Dunlop, "it is indeed a privilege and an honour to move the adoption of the Speech from the Throne."

Yesterday's Throne Speech is designed to encourage economic growth and continue investments in health care, education and other key government services. Last month, over 10,000 Ontarians participated in an historic Throne Speech consultation process online, by fax, by mail, or in person.

"I was particularly pleased to be part of the Premier's consultation process that resulted in the development of this Throne Speech," said Dunlop. "In my role of Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier, I visited seven communities in rural Ontario to seek advice and input."

The results of Dunlop's consultations in Picton, Selby, Faraday, Cornwall, Winchester, Paris and Oakwood were reflected in the Throne Speech. For example, in the coming weeks, the Eves government "will unveil a comprehensive rural strategy aimed at addressing the concerns raised by people in rural communities. The strategy "will strengthen the rural economy, protect services, and preserve the cherished way of life so important to Ontario's countryside".

The Throne Speech pledges to implement all 17 tax cuts announced in the recent Budget, including the tax credit for senior homeowners and tenants. The 225 taxes cut since 1995 have helped create over 1.1 million new jobs in Ontario, while eliminating an $11 billion deficit.

"This Throne Speech is about keeping Ontario"s economy strong, so we can continue to put tax dollars into the priorities of the people of this province, like health care and education," said Dunlop. "Ontarians have already experienced what can happen when a government does not provide the supports necessary for a vibrant economy: We cannot turn back to the tax-and-spend days of the "Lost Decade" of 1985-1995."

Contacts:
Garfield Dunlop
(705) 327-4500 (cell)
(705) 326-3246 (Orillia office)

Julie Kwiecinski
(416) 325-6176