PERTH-WELLINGTON – As part of the Wellington Advertiser’s coverage of the 2025 provincial election, the newspaper offered all local candidates a chance to participate in a Q&A feature leading up to the Feb. 27 election.
Scroll down to read each candidate’s answers.
*There are actually seven candidates running in the riding of Perth-Wellington.
Attempts to reach Sarah Zenuh, of the Ontario Party, and Robby Smink, of the Freedom Party, were not successful.
Many people across the province are struggling just to pay for basic items such as housing and food. What will your party do to make everyday life more affordable for Ontarians?
Affordability is a major issue today and it shouldn’t be. The biggest issues pressing Ontarians should not be having a roof over your head and food in your fridge. That’s why the NDP has promised to build the kind of housing we need, including 60,000 units of supportive housing, and 300,000 affordable rental units. We would also appoint a watchdog for the major grocery chains that would enforce competition laws to stop price fixing and force grocers to display price increases above 2%.
How would you and your party improve social assistance programs (Ontario Disability Support Program, Ontario Works, emergency assistance, etc.)?
ODSP has not kept up with inflation; because of this we rely on charity and multiple different social programs to pick up the slack and prevent our most vulnerable from being on the street. That is why the NDP has committed to doubling ODSP and OW to make sure that everyone, regardless of abilities or situation, can afford the basic necessities of life.
How will you balance increasing the availability of affordable housing with protecting farmland and environmentally sensitive areas?
The best way to provide affordable housing without encroaching on farmland is to focus on building what we need. We don’t need any more $800,000 homes. We need to build smaller, more affordable homes for middle class families to purchase. We need apartments that are large enough to raise a family yet cheap enough that working families can afford to live in them. We need supportive housing and shelters for our homeless. Just simply building more housing for the sake of housing isn’t working and it is taking up valuable land that should be used for the needs of our communities.
Many teachers are reporting increased physical abuse and a lack of classroom supports, notably for students with mental health issues. What will you and your party do to address these and other issues in schools?
The NDP is committed to hiring more staff for schools and switching school funding to be based on student needs rather than the number of students. Not all students have the same needs and it’s important that when we talk about education funding, we are funding based on those needs. The need for education assistants and increased resources is especially important when discussing students who are struggling with mental health.
What can be done at the provincial level to ensure Canadians/Ontarians are protected from tariffs and other harmful economic policies that may be introduced in the U.S.?
Trump is making a huge mistake threatening Canadian sovereignty and our economy. We just went through COVID and if there is one thing I believe we all learned is how to protect each other and support our communities through tough times. If he wants to try and divide us, I can promise he will be met with a united front. The NDP will invest in new supply chains, income assistance for those affected by tariffs, and removing the cap on farmers’ risk management programs.
Since July of 2023, the emergency room at Louise Marshall Hospital in Mount Forest has closed at least a dozen times due to staffing shortages. What will you do to ensure hospitals, particularly those in your riding, are adequately staffed to avoid closures?
Healthcare has been drastically underfunded and understaffed as we move towards privatization. The NDP is committed to keeping our healthcare public, that means a path to practice for the 13,000 internationally trained doctors. Implementing a ratio of nurses to patients to prevent worker burnout. Hiring more nurses so that we can end the reliance on private for-profit nursing agencies. A two-tier healthcare system is not better: We have seen it play out in other provinces and adding a private system is a short-term solution that does not lower wait times and it costs taxpayers more.
Many people across the province are struggling just to pay for basic items such as housing and food. What will your party do to make everyday life more affordable for Ontarians?
Our plan focuses on making life more affordable for Ontarians by slashing taxes on new homes, improving renter rights, and helping families save. We will eliminate the 8% provincial component of HST on hydro and home heating bills, and lower the personal income tax rate for middle-class families by 22% – from 9.15% to 7.15%. These measures will reduce everyday costs, making it easier for families to make ends meet.
How would you and your party improve social assistance programs (Ontario Disability Support Program, Ontario Works, emergency assistance, etc.)?
Ontario’s Liberals will improve social assistance programs by permanently doubling Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) benefits and indexing them to inflation. We will also establish the Rental Emergency Support for Tenants Fund to help vulnerable renters avoid eviction during financial emergencies. These measures will provide better financial security and support to those in need.
How will you balance increasing the availability of affordable housing with protecting farmland and environmentally sensitive areas?
To balance affordable housing with protecting farmland and sensitive areas, we will focus on building within existing boundaries and using available land efficiently. Collaboration across all levels of government and respectful dialogue with planners will ensure smart, sustainable development. By prioritizing both housing needs and environmental protection, we can create solutions that preserve our agricultural and natural resources while addressing the demand for affordable housing.
Many teachers are reporting increased physical abuse and a lack of classroom supports, notably for students with mental health issues. What will you and your party do to address these and other issues in schools?
Bonnie Crombie and the Ontario Liberals will prioritize education, healthcare, and mental health services as the foundation of our economic plan. A strong economy starts with healthy, educated communities. The Ontario Liberals have a proven record of introducing full-day kindergarten, reducing class sizes, improving teacher compensation, and rebuilding healthcare and mental health services. We have a plan to improve learning outcomes, support smaller class sizes, and ensure accessible, high-quality healthcare and mental health services for all Ontarians. Our full platform will be released soon – visit ontarioliberal.ca for more details.
What can be done at the provincial level to ensure Canadians/Ontarians are protected from tariffs and other harmful economic policies that may be introduced in the U.S.?
To protect Ontarians from U.S. tariffs and harmful economic policies, we will establish a Fight Tariffs Fund, offering businesses access to lower interest rates to reduce borrowing costs, helping create and protect jobs. We will also prioritize infrastructure spending on projects like hospitals and schools, ensuring taxpayer money is spent wisely. Additionally, by working with other provinces to remove interprovincial trade barriers, we’ll create a united approach to growing our economy, strengthening Ontario’s position against external economic pressures.
Since July of 2023, the emergency room at Louise Marshall Hospital in Mount Forest has closed at least a dozen times due to staffing shortages. What will you do to ensure hospitals, particularly those in your riding, are adequately staffed to avoid closures?
To prevent hospital closures and staffing shortages, we will help hospitals hire and retain the staff they need. We’ll ensure all nurses and PSWs are paid a living wage, supporting the training and retention of the healthcare workforce. Instead of fighting wage freezes in court, Bonnie Crombie will advocate for fair wages to keep healthcare workers in our public system. We’ll ensure wage parity across the system, so workers in hospitals, home care and long-term care are all paid fairly. Additionally, we’ll invest in hospital infrastructure to build a stronger economy and prepare for challenges like U.S. tariffs.
Many people across the province are struggling just to pay for basic items such as housing and food. What will your party do to make everyday life more affordable for Ontarians?
The New Blue Party is dedicated to making life more affordable for Ontarians by implementing common-sense reforms. We will reduce the HST from 13% to 10%, making goods and services more affordable across the province. Additionally, we will eliminate the carbon tax that raises prices on essential products. To reduce government waste, we will cut administrative costs and eliminate the $100-million taxpayer-funded political party subsidy. Privatizing the LCBO and Beer Store will increase competition, lower prices and provide consumers with more choice. These measures will help Ontarians keep more of their money and enjoy a lower cost of living.
How would you and your party improve social assistance programs (Ontario Disability Support Program, Ontario Works, emergency assistance, etc.)?
I believe social assistance programs like ODSP and Ontario Works need reform to better support those in need. I will simplify application processes to reduce delays, ensuring quicker access to benefits. Financial support will be increased to meet the rising cost of living, allowing people to maintain their dignity. I’ll focus on job training and employment opportunities to empower individuals toward self-sufficiency. Additionally, I will advocate for the integration of mental health and addiction services, providing personalized support to address unique barriers and help individuals overcome challenges as they work toward stability and independence.
How will you balance increasing the availability of affordable housing with protecting farmland and environmentally sensitive areas?
I will strike a balance between the need for affordable housing and the protection of farmland and environmentally sensitive areas by preventing the expropriation of farmland without the landowner’s consent. I will focus on urban development in underutilized areas and encourage the construction of affordable housing within existing urban zones to reduce the pressure on rural lands. I will promote sustainable agriculture through incentives that support farmers in maintaining environmentally-friendly practices. By respecting property rights and prioritizing smart growth, I will ensure that Ontario’s agricultural heritage is preserved while meeting the housing needs of our growing population.
Many teachers are reporting increased physical abuse and a lack of classroom supports, notably for students with mental health issues. What will you and your party do to address these and other issues in schools?
The New Blue Party of Ontario is committed to enhancing classroom supports for students with mental health issues and special needs. We will ensure that schools have access to essential resources, including special education teachers, mental health professionals and tailored support services. Additionally, we believe in providing a safe and disciplined environment for all students. As part of this, we are dedicated to repealing the current progressive discipline system in schools and reinstating the Safe Schools Act, which will prioritize safety, clear consequences for misconduct, and promote a positive and respectful learning environment for every student.
What can be done at the provincial level to ensure Canadians/Ontarians are protected from tariffs and other harmful economic policies that may be introduced in the U.S.?
Ontario can mitigate the impact of U.S. tariffs by diversifying trade relationships and building stronger international partnerships, particularly with key global markets. Strengthening economic ties with individual U.S. states, where appropriate, can also help protect Ontario’s interests. Supporting industries directly affected by tariffs, reducing internal trade barriers between provinces, and challenging unfair tariffs through legal channels like the World Trade Organization will be essential strategies. Additionally, investing in innovation, technology and enhancing the overall competitiveness of Ontario’s businesses will help safeguard the province’s economy against external trade disruptions.
Since July of 2023, the emergency room at Louise Marshall Hospital in Mount Forest has closed at least a dozen times due to staffing shortages. What will you do to ensure hospitals, particularly those in your riding, are adequately staffed to avoid closures?
I understand the challenges that staffing shortages present, particularly in smaller communities like Mount Forest, where the Louise Marshall Hospital has faced multiple closures. To address this, I will focus on rehiring nurses and healthcare workers who were dismissed due to COVID-19 mandates. I will also push for policies that improve the working conditions of healthcare staff, provide competitive wages, and ensure adequate mental health support to prevent burnout. Additionally, I will advocate for better training programs and incentives to attract and retain healthcare workers, ensuring our hospitals remain fully staffed and accessible to all Ontarians when they need care.
Many people across the province are struggling just to pay for basic items such as housing and food. What will your party do to make everyday life more affordable for Ontarians?
The Green Party will reduce taxes for salaries less than $65,000, saving people approximately $1,700 a year. We will introduce strict anti-gouging grocery laws. We will build 2 million homes within urban boundaries over 10 years, made up of missing middle housing, non-profit and co-op homes. We will offer zero-interest loans for homeowners to add affordable rental units to their residence. The Green Party will end the Land Transfer Tax for first-time home buyers and remove development charges on homes that are less than 2,000 square feet. The Green Party will reinstate rent controls on all units to regulate rental increases.
How would you and your party improve social assistance programs (Ontario Disability Support Program, Ontario Works, emergency assistance, etc.)?
The Green Party will phase in a basic income and we will at least double the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and Ontario Works (OW) rates, and remove clawbacks from the Canada Disability Benefit. We will eliminate unnecessary red tape, reporting requirements and other barriers faced by those needing financial support. We will support municipalities and non-profits with shelter allowances reflecting their actual costs. We will include meaningful consultation with people who have lived experience with poverty and existing social assistance programs in the design of all programs and services aimed at client-centred approaches for reducing poverty.
How will you balance increasing the availability of affordable housing with protecting farmland and environmentally sensitive areas?
The Green Party will build homes in communities, not create urban sprawl into farmland and natural areas. We will freeze urban boundaries and reverse recent expansions. We will protect farmland with tax incentives to encourage developers to build within existing neighbourhoods. We will reinstate the provincial brownfield remediation fund. We will incentivise the construction of housing on abandoned commercial properties. We will insist upon reinstating upper-tier regional planning authority to ensure sustainable planning to protect agricultural and natural heritage. The Green Party will create an Ontario Foodbelt to permanently protect prime farmland from being lost to non-agricultural uses.
Many teachers are reporting increased physical abuse and a lack of classroom supports, notably for students with mental health issues. What will you and your party do to address these and other issues in schools?
The Green Party will increase per-student funding by $1,500 to make up for the $3.1 billion in cuts since 2018. We will update current funding models that will prioritize funding for special education assistants, counsellors, social workers, ESL teachers, and other necessary supports. The Green Party will fund staffing models with adequate qualified educators to reduce class sizes. We must reduce the repair backlog for Ontario schools. The Green Party will introduce lower class size caps for grades four to eight to, at most, 24 students and kindergarten to, at most, 26 students.
What can be done at the provincial level to ensure Canadians/Ontarians are protected from tariffs and other harmful economic policies that may be introduced in the U.S.?
The Green Party will immediately create a ‘tariff taskforce’ that works across party, jurisdictional and sectoral lines to negotiate with the United States on trade. We will create an investment tax credit to unlock business investments in Ontario. We will develop a “Buy Ontario” strategy and implement public procurement rules that support Ontario businesses and farmers. The Green Party will create a Protect Ontario Fund for businesses disproportionately impacted by tariffs. We will immediately and aggressively diversify our trade partners. We will work with other provinces to finally remove interprovincial trade barriers that have been stalled in talks for decades.
Since July of 2023, the emergency room at Louise Marshall Hospital in Mount Forest has closed at least a dozen times due to staffing shortages. What will you do to ensure hospitals, particularly those in your riding, are adequately staffed to avoid closures?
The Green Party will hire more doctors, nurses, PSWs and other important healthcare professionals. We will ensure that everyone has a primary care provider within 3-4 years. We will stop funding private, for-profit health solutions. The Green Party will increase provincial funding for rural hospitals. We will expand scope of practice for community healthcare providers. We will create new and integrated framework to deploy healthcare providers more effectively in rural areas. By providing equal pay for nurses, doctors and PSWs across all communities and healthcare settings in Ontario, we will increase capacity in rural and remote communities.
Many people across the province are struggling just to pay for basic items such as housing and food. What will your party do to make everyday life more affordable for Ontarians?
Only Doug Ford and the Ontario PCs have a plan to protect our economy, workers and families, in the face of U.S. President Trump’s tariffs while keeping life more affordable. Our PC team scrapped licence sticker renewal fees, saving the average family $280 annually. We extended the gas tax cut until June 2025, saving Ontario families $380 on average since 2022. A re-elected PC government will make this tax cut permanent. We’re providing every eligible person in Ontario with a $200 taxpayer rebate. A re-elected PC government will continue to keep costs down for families in Perth-Wellington and across Ontario.
How would you and your party improve social assistance programs (Ontario Disability Support Program, Ontario Works, emergency assistance, etc.)?
Our Ontario PC team made the two largest increases to ODSP rates in the program’s history – and we did it back-to-back. We’ve tied ODSP rates to inflation, raising rates by nearly 17 percent since the last election, with future increases each July. We’ve also increased the ODSP earned income threshold by 400 percent, allowing recipients who can work to keep more of their hard-earned money. The FAO projects ODSP will cost $7.7 billion by 2028-29. Doubling ODSP payments would cost $21 billion over the next three years – an unrealistic plan.
How will you balance increasing the availability of affordable housing with protecting farmland and environmentally sensitive areas?
Our PC team knows our area is rapidly growing and we want to be ready to build affordable homes to welcome families not just now, but for years to come. That is why we have redoubled our efforts to build even more homes faster by cutting red tape and streamlining approvals. We have introduced the new Provincial Planning Statement to provide municipalities with greater flexibility to build more housing and, through the Housing Enabling Core Servicing Stream, we are investing over $11 million to support the construction of up 2,705 new homes in Perth-Wellington.
Many teachers are reporting increased physical abuse and a lack of classroom supports, notably for students with mental health issues. What will you and your party do to address these and other issues in schools?
Our Ontario PC team has increased our education budget by $10.4 billion since 2018, and has increased funding for core education services by $5.7 billion over the same period. We are also the first government in Ontario’s history to create a portfolio specifically to deal with mental health and addictions. Youth Wellness Hubs provide important mental health support for our children and are part of a broader $3.8-billion investment through our Roadmap To Wellness Plan. If re-elected, I will continue to advocate for local mental health needs, such as our Youth Wellness Hubs across Wellington County.
What can be done at the provincial level to ensure Canadians/Ontarians are protected from tariffs and other harmful economic policies that may be introduced in the U.S.?
Our PC Party is the only party with a plan to protect Ontario from the threat of Trump’s tariffs by protecting our families, our workers and our businesses. A re-elected PC government will continue to build the infrastructure we need, whether it is roads, wastewater, rural broadband or energy. We have a $200-billion infrastructure plan to build communities. We will invest in our workers, by investing an additional $1 billion in the Skills Development Fund, on top of the existing $1.5 billion. We will work to make Ontario the most competitive place to invest in and create jobs.
Since July of 2023, the emergency room at Louise Marshall Hospital in Mount Forest has closed at least a dozen times due to staffing shortages. What will you do to ensure hospitals, particularly those in your riding, are adequately staffed to avoid closures?
Our PC team has made record investments in our healthcare system, investing $85 billion this year alone, a 31% increase since 2018, while adding 3,500 new beds – more than the Liberals built in over 10 years. We have invested $44 million to support 165 high-volume and smaller emergency departments, including Louise Marshall Hospital, $10 million to up-skill 1,000 nurses to work in emergency departments, expanded the Learn and Stay Grant, and added a record 100,000 new nurses and 15,000 new doctors to our workforce since 2018. Together, these investments have improved reduced hours in hospitals by 84 per cent.
