| April 6, 2008
Ted Arnott delivered the following address to the Ontario Provincial Police County of Wellington Detachment on Sunday April 6 th , 2008, on the retirement of Constable Roger Neal and Sergeant Rick Weiler:
It's a real honour for me to be here tonight on behalf of the Province of Ontario.
I hope you'll forgive me for not joining you for dinner. Sunday nights are pretty special Family nights at our house, especially when the Legislature is in session and I have to be in Toronto so much through the week. So tonight, I was glad to be able to have dinner at home with my wife and our boys, and still be able to be here with you now.
For here now is where your MPP ought to be, celebrating and honouring the service of Roger Neil and Rick Weiler, and expressing the appreciation of a grateful province to all of the Members of the Ontario Provincial Police.
To say thank you for everything you do to keep our homes, or streets, our communities safe.
To say thank you for everything you do to ensure that our rule of law, so fundamental to the freedoms we enjoy in our parliamentary democracy, is upheld.
To say thank you for everything you do—every act of heroic courage, dedicated pride, professional valour, and every act of kindness and compassion.
To me, the OPP exemplify the very best values of Ontario . Your uniform and your standards of conduct command respect, from all of us, and you should be very proud.
Just as we are all proud of Roger Neal and Rick Weiler, as good men and good police officers, and proud of their service to the Province.
And in your retirement now, which you both have so richly earned, we wish you all the very best, as you continue to find ways to give back to the communities you cherish, and your supportive families who love you, and are glad to have you home.
March 29 , 2008
Ted Arnott delivered the following address to the Rotary Club of Acton on March 29 th , 2008, on the occasion of its 60 th anniversary celebration: Through the many years I've been privileged to serve in the Ontario Legislature, I've always greatly admired the service clubs in our communities—for you embody, and give voice, and put into action the very best of our community values.
Rotary, in particular, has every reason to be proud of its many contributions through the years—in this community 60 years, representing two or even three generations of “Service Above Self.”
Your efforts locally to support worthwhile community projects, and through Rotary International to eradicate polio, encourage high standards of ethical behaviour in the professions and business, and your furtherance of goodwill and peace throughout the world, have made Rotary stand out.
And your exchange and scholarship programs give opportunities for personal growth to so many young people. You've truly made a difference.
If Paul Harris, who organized the first Rotary Club more than a century ago, was here, I'd bet he'd say to this Acton Club: well done, and carry on.
On behalf of the Province of Ontario , thank you for 60 years of exemplary service, and best wishes for continued success in the years ahead.
March 17, 2008
Wellington-Halton Hills Provincial Riding Office
Fergus , Ontario February 22 nd, 2008
The Hon. Dalton McGuinty, MPP
Premier of Ontario
Legislative Building
Queen's Park
Toronto , Ontario
M7A 1A1
Dear Premier:
News of your plan to “move beyond” the recitation of the Lord's Prayer in the Ontario Legislature has, quite understandably, generated considerable concern among many of my constituents. They can appreciate the importance of respecting not only the modern-day reality of Ontario , but also our shared history and tradition.
This is not the first time this issue has been raised. In reaction to a proposal in 1990 to eliminate this tradition, many members of the House wrote the Speaker of the day to support the recitation of the Lord's Prayer.
At that time, I was one of many to express support for this important part of our history. As a time of prayer and reflection, it provides elected representatives—both individually and collectively—the opportunity to ask for divine guidance as they carry out their responsibilities for the people they serve.
For this reason, my position remains consistent. The Lord's Prayer should continue to be read at the beginning of each day the House is in session. Members who make the effort to be present for this part of the day should not be overlooked in this debate.
Of course, it is important that the practices of the Legislature be reflective of the various faith traditions of its members. If an additional prayer were to be proposed, I would support such a request. This approach would build on our history—not dismantle it.
If you still believe this matter requires further consideration, it would be more appropriate to refer this matter to the Standing Committee on the Legislative Assembly, which already has the mandate to examine such issues.
Thank you for your careful consideration of my concerns.
Sincerely,
Ted Arnott, MPP
Wellington-Halton Hills
February 8, 2008
This column was written for readers of the Georgetown Independent and Free Press: While we would all hope for continued strength in the Ontario economy in 2008, there are numerous troubling signs that Ontario is slipping.
In fact, our Province's economic growth was so sluggish in 2007 that we ranked dead last in all of Canada . Scotiabank predicts the same ranking for Ontario in 2008. Not an encouraging start to the New Year.
Ontario 's unemployment rate has edged up as well, at times exceeding Canada 's national average.
We experienced our largest ever net "out-migration" of Ontario residents leaving the Province in the third quarter of 2007.
Many of our manufacturing businesses are struggling for their very survival. The latest numbers indicate we have lost over 160,000 factory jobs since the start of 2005. Further losses seem likely, as Kitchener Frame (formerly Budd Canada ) has recently announced it may wind down its operations and eliminate 1,200 jobs.
Beef and hog producers, as well as fruit and vegetable growers, have been hurt by lower commodity prices and higher input costs. Our forest product industries in Northern Ontario have been devastated by the strong Canadian dollar, high electricity prices, and reduced demand in the U.S.
Traditionally, Ontario has been proud to be the economic leader in Confederation. Today, under the McGuinty Liberals, we have become the economic laggard in Confederation.
What can be done to reverse these trends, and propel us back to the top in Canada ? Plenty.
To begin with, we need to reduce the tax burden on new business investment. We need to eliminate the capital tax. We need to support small business, because this is where most of the new jobs we need can be created. We need to begin serious negotiations with the Federal Government on tax reform. And we need to address the real concerns about our electricity supply.
All of these issues must be addressed in the coming Provincial Budget. If they are not, Ontario 's true economic potential will not be realized in 2008.
* * *
As part of my ongoing efforts to reach out to my constituents in Wellington-Halton Hills, I hosted community meetings in Acton on Saturday, February 16th.
The Ontario Legislature is expected to resume sitting on March 17th, which means I will be at Queen's Park much of the time. However, I often drive through Acton and Georgetown on my way to and from Toronto . This allows me to drop in and keep in touch with you, and I look forward to doing so.
January 16, 2008
This column was written for readers of the Georgetown Independent and Free Press:
In all of the years I've been privileged to serve in the Ontario Legislature, I've always believed that our Province needs to embrace a philosophy of conservatism that is caring—not narrow, but expansive; not harsh, but kind; not divisive, but inclusive. From this perspective, it follows that our communities must respond to meet the genuine and real needs of people who, through no fault of their own, are unable to provide for themselves.
One way to fulfill this obligation is to support the Georgetown Food Bank. The Food Bank exists to ensure that no one goes hungry. I recently had the chance to meet one of its compassionate and dedicated volunteers, and I want to express my sincere thanks to everyone who has supported the Food Bank by donating food, or their time and talent—especially in the lead-up to Christmas.
Another organization worthy of recognition for its advocacy and service to needy clients is Halton Community Legal Services, our local legal aid clinic. On January 9th, I had the chance to visit its office in Downtown Georgetown, and learn more about their important work supported by the Province of Ontario .
Some of the services provided by community legal clinics include help with disability benefits, Ontario Works, housing issues, and Employment Insurance. If you qualify, they can tell you what the law says about your problem, what you can do about it legally, and in some cases represent you at hearings.
For more information, call Halton Community Legal Services at 905-875-2069.
These are but two of our local community organizations who give a “hand up” to those in need. Thanks to all who share in this vital responsibility.
* * *
My wife Lisa and I hosted a very well-attended New Year Social for our Wellington-Halton Hills constituents on January 13th. It was scheduled for 2 to 4 pm, but in reality went from 1:20 to 5 pm! I want to extend a special word of thanks to everyone from the Halton Hills half of our Riding who joined us. It was wonderful to see you there.
* * *
Even though Premier Dalton McGuinty has not yet announced the date when he plans to recall the Ontario Legislature, I remain very busy working in our Riding Office and around Wellington-Halton Hills.
As well, the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs, an All-Party Committee of the Legislature, begins pre-budget public consultations on January 21st. As a Member of this Committee, I plan to participate in these hearings in Toronto , Sault Ste. Marie, Timmins , Thunder Bay , Guelph and London . After the hearings conclude, our PC Caucus will be pushing the Government to respond in key areas like the economy and jobs, health, agriculture, the environment, public infrastructure, tourism, and education.
If you have any suggestions for this year's Provincial Budget, please let me know and send me an email at ted.arnott@pc.ola.org . I will ensure your ideas are passed along to the Committee and the Minister of Finance. December 15, 2007
Wellington-Halton Hills Provincial Riding Office
Fergus , Ontario
December 10 th , 2007
The Hon. Dalton McGuinty, M.P.P.
Premier and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs
Room 281
Legislative Bldg., Queen's Park
Toronto , Ontario
M7A 1A1
Dear Premier:
Late Friday afternoon, I met with representatives of Ontario 's beef and hog producers as well as our local field representative of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.
I am aware that many farm families in Wellington-Halton Hills are facing their worst crisis ever, and our discussions on Friday confirmed my strong belief that the Provincial Government must respond immediately.
This is not a time for you to simply criticize the Federal Government and attempt to draw attention away from what you can do to help. The farm organizations are approaching the Federal Government themselves.
Your Minister of Agriculture understands the urgency of this situation. You must listen to her and throw your full support behind whatever proposals she is attempting to bring forward to get cash in the hands of these farmers now.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely
Ted Arnott, M.P.P.
Wellington-Halton Hills
Encl.
Cc. The Hon. Leona Dombrowsky , Minister of Agriculture and Food
Mr. Gord Grant, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
Mr. Doug Cassie, Wellington County Cattlemen's Association
Mr. Dave Parker, Wellington Pork Producer
December 5, 2007
A Christmas Tradition
Every year at Queen's Park, MPPs join the “Lights Across Canada” event to mark the Christmas season. It is held on the Grand Staircase in the Legislative Building with beautiful Christmas trees and decorations. I was honoured to join this celebration on December 3, along with the Honourable Steve Peters, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, and colleagues from the Liberal and New Democratic Parties. Speaking on behalf of John Tory and the PC Party Caucus, I delivered the following remarks:
Good evening everyone, and welcome.
I'm glad to have this chance to bring holiday greetings tonight, on behalf of our PC Leader John Tory and the rest of my colleagues in the Ontario PC Caucus.
As I looked out my window this morning in Fergus, I saw the arrival of what promises to be an old-fashioned Canadian winter.
The meteorologists at Environment Canada tell us that this winter will be the coldest one in 15 years—just the news we wanted to hear.
Warming our hearts, however, comes this special season of giving and goodwill, of peace and presents, of family and friends, of love and laughter, of children and Christmas.
For Christians, this season is a holy and sacred time, as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
For Jewish families, Hanukkah begins tomorrow night, the Festival of Lights, a special family time with its beloved traditions.
Buddhists will observe Bodhi Day this Saturday, remembering the day Buddha experienced enlightenment—again, recognition of light.
For Muslims, Eid al-Adha begins at sunset on the 19 th of December, after the Hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca . Hindus and Sikhs celebrated their Festival of Lights, Diwali, just a few days ago on November the 9 th .
The theme of light, illuminating through the darkness, is repeated again and again through the ages and the generations, and across our cultures.
We think of ourselves as living in an enlightened time, where science and technology allow us to live in comfort and ease. Yet for most of us, it is our faith that gives meaning to our lives—a desire to do good in the world, and a code by which we try to live.
Faith is our light, which illuminates the way—telling us that in this rich and blessed part of the world, many amongst us do not share in the abundance and wealth that so many of the rest of us too often take for granted.
Let us recognize and respond to that light, those of us having the means to do so, and be especially generous to alleviate the pain of the needy in our communities and beyond, bringing that light in to their lives.
From our families to yours go our best wishes for a glorious and brilliant holiday season, and heartfelt wishes for the New Year.
Thank you all. November 19, 2007 This column was written for readers of the Georgetown Independent and Free Press:
Big challenges ahead as Legislature resumes: MPP Arnott
By Ted Arnott, MPP
Wellington — Halton Hills Seven weeks to the day after the October 10th Provincial Election, the Ontario Legislature finally resumes sitting on November the 28th.
The Premier, having sought and received a new mandate from the voters of Ontario , might have called the Provincial House back into session sooner. He should have done so.
Nevertheless, I've been kept very busy in recent weeks. I've attended a meeting of the Town of Halton Hills Council ; enjoyed a delicious beef dinner at Knox Church in Georgetown ; and observed Remembrance Day at events in Acton , Georgetown and Glen Williams.
I've also met the Halton Public School Board Director of Education; discussed the Hydro One powerline problem with affected residents; participated in the Acton and Georgetown Santa Claus parades; attended P.O.W.E.R.'s Annual Meeting; and attended numerous events and meetings in the Wellington side of our Riding.
Thanks again for your warm welcome as I've undertaken my responsibilities as your new MPP. I also wish to thank my colleague, Ted Chudleigh, for his work in representing Halton Hills in the Legislature for the past 12 years, and wish him well in his new Riding.
* * *
For more than two years, I've been raising serious concerns about the economic competitiveness of our manufacturing sector.
I've pushed for public hearings by a Legislative Committee, so that MPPs can hear from business groups, labour, economic development experts and all interested Ontarians on this vital issue. We could have then developed a comprehensive action plan to save factory jobs and ensure that we could compete and win in an increasingly challenging world marketplace.
The McGuinty Government has all but ignored this problem, even as Ontario has lost more than 153,500 good-paying manufacturing jobs.
With the recent strength of our dollar in relation to the American dollar, many of our manufacturing companies are facing extremely tough decisions.
For example, Chrysler in Brampton recently announced layoffs of 1,100 workers, causing hardship to many young families in our area.
Governments at all levels must act decisively to avert this pending economic crisis. Had the hearings I proposed in May of 2005 taken place, we could have sent a signal that the Provincial Government is working to protect our manufacturing jobs and enhanced our ability to compete.
The time for action has passed, but I continue to call upon the Government to respond.
September 7th, 2007 This weekend, my term as the MPP for Waterloo-Wellington is drawing to a close. On Monday September the 10th, the Ontario Legislature will be dissolved, triggering a Provincial Election which will take place on October 10th.
Since I am a Candidate in that Election in the new provincial riding of Wellington-Halton Hills, it will be inappropriate for me to add new information to this website during the writ period.
So let me take this opportunity now to express my sincere thanks to all of my constituents in Waterloo-Wellington for the trust you placed in me, and for your encouraging support throughout the past eight years. Lisa and I have been truly blessed because of your friendship, and we will always be grateful for the kindness you've extended us.
From our hearts, we thank you.
Ted Arnott
September 5, 2007
In recent days, many people have asked me about the referendum which will be taking place on 0ctober 10th, the same day as the coming provincial election.
I would encourage everyone in Waterloo, Wellington and Halton Hills to listen to the debate and consider both sides before making a final decision on whether to support the proposed "Mixed-Member Proportional" system of electing MPPs.
My own view is this:
The system we have now, known as "First Past the Post," has stood the test of time, and is the best way of ensuring that all MPPs are directly accountable to their constituents.
A Mixed Member Proportional system would mean a large increase in the number of MPPs, but fewer MPPs would actually represent the people. The new group of 39 MPPs would NOT represent the people, but would represent their political parties. We already have too much of that in today's Legislature.
It would also mean more frequent minority Governments, turmoil and back-room deal making. I also believe the voice of small- town and rural Ontario will be diminished, as the 39 new "list" (Party) MPPs are likely to come from the cities.
Hardly a more "democratic" system.
We can fix the existing system by electing people who are committed to their constituents first and foremost, and who will fight for them at Queen's Park, instead of being apologists for their parties all of the time.
That's why I will be voting for the existing system of electing MPPs on October 10th.
For more information, log onto www.YourBigDecision.ca
August 10, 2007 - LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Toronto Star
J. Fred Kuntz, Editor-in-Chief
August 10th, 2007
Dear Editor:
Your lead Editorial of August 10th (Ontario industry needs federal help) raises a vital issue, but its conclusion misses the mark.
Ontario's industry is indeed facing a "perfect storm" of challenges, as the new President of the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters has said. And the McGuinty Liberal Government is at least partially responsible, because it ignored the barometer that predicted the pending crisis.
For more than two years, I've been pushing for public hearings on the competitiveness of our manufacturers, with the support of the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters and other industry groups. Even though the Legislature and the Finance Committee both voted to commence the hearings, the McGuinty Liberals refused to allow this public discussion of what the Government of Ontario could do to support our economic foundation.
Premier McGuinty's effort to deflect blame on this issue rings hollow.
Ted Arnott MPP
Waterloo-Wellington
August 1, 2007
The Summer of '07 is proving to be a very busy season for me.
In the month of July alone, I have been able to attend 32 community events in our area, and I've enjoyed every single one. Some of the highlights have included Canada Day, a Christian Farmers' Barbeque, the Elora Festival, the Fergus Truck Show, and milestone community anniversaries in Georgetown, Harriston, and Badenoch (Puslinch Township). Attendence at these events allows me to hear from constituents face to face, get caught up on the "news" (and enjoy the fabulous food that always seems to be available in decadent abundance!).
My work continues in our Riding Office as well, since the Legislature is not currently in Session. And whenever I've been able to free up my schedule for a few hours, I've made it a point to spend as much time as possible in the communities of Halton Hills, Erin, Puslinch, Guelph/Eramosa, and of course Centre Wellington, to listen and learn.
Everywhere I go, I'm always impressed with the strength of our communities, the scenic beauty of our area, and the friendliness of our residents. We have so much to be thankful for.
Still, there are concerns. The lack of rain has farmers worried. Heat waves with temperatures in the mid-30s seem to confirm what the scientists are saying about global warming. The hot days stretch our electricity system to its limit, and smog days mean people with breathing problems suffer. Tourism in the Province is hurting. We are still losing too many manufacturing jobs. And, I continue to receive too many legitimate complaints from people who are unable to access timely health care.
All of these problems require competent leadership from the Provincial Government, leadership which has as its foundations integrity and vision, and leadership that listens.
Please keep in touch, and keep me informed of your ideas and concerns.
July 1, 2007
Happy Canada Day! Today I'm expecting to attend Canada Day events in Elora (where they still call it Dominion Day), Aberfoyle, Glen Williams (near Georgetown), New Hamburg, Acton, Elmira, Orton and Fergus. A busy and full day of celebrating our history and heritage and what it means to be Canadian, as well as our future of endless possibilities.
I'm looking forward to seeing everyone at one of these events, and hope that we all spend a moment today thinking about how fortunate and privileged we are to call this land home, each of us resolving to do our part to make it an even better place in the year ahead.
Ted
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