Question 1
Community and firefighter safety are key priorities for our Association. What can we expect from your party with regards to programs and initiatives that improve safety in these areas?
Sam Bhalesar (Ontario Liberal Party), Ottawa-West Nepean
I support the federal Liberal position as enunciated by the Prime Minister: "The Liberal Party firmly believes that when fire fighters, police officers and EMS put their own safety and security on the line, they are acting in service to all Canadians…. They deserve nothing less than the highest level of support and care from a grateful country, and that is exactly what they will get from a Liberal government."
Stephen Blais (Ontario Liberal Party), Orleans
If I am successful in my re-election on June 2nd, I would love to meet with your Association to determine what programs and initiatives will best improve safety for the fine men and women who serve as firefighters.
Melissa Coenraad (Ontario New Democratic Party), Kanata-Carleton
The Ontario NDP will work with it’s partners on programs and initiatives to improve community safety, in particular for frontline workers life firefighters. This is a responsibility we take seriously.
Lyra Evans (Ontario New Democratic Party), Ottawa-Vanier
The NDP has committed to “make investments to protect people from housefires in First Nations and remote communities”. The NDP has also committed to investing in forest fire prevention and investing in training and equipment for fire rangers in Ontario and wildland fire management.
Le NPD s’est engagé à « investir afin de protéger les personnes des incendies à la maison dans les communautés des Premières nations et les communautés plus isolées ». Le NPD s’engage aussi à investir dans la prévention des feux de forêt et à investir dans la formation et les équipements pour les garde-feu en Ontario et la gestion des feux de forêt.
Chandra Pasma (Ontario New Democratic Party), Ottawa-West Nepean
New Democrats have always fought alongside your members to recognize the considerable risks, and extraordinary challenges firefighters face on the job. It was NDP Oshawa MPP Jennifer French who introduced Bill 10, the Brunt and Kendall Act (2018), that would require standards in training of firefighter recruits.
We’re also committed to invest in forest fire prevention and training, and build up First Nation fire services with investments and training.
Jennifer Boudreau (New Blue Party of Ontario), Kanata-Carleton
Community outreach, safety (enforcement and crime prevention) and fire safety are paramount to safe and vibrant communities. When one feels safe, one can prosper and achieve their own levels of personal success, whatever that may be. I would like to introduce something that my husband and I had when we were growing up. The local fire halls would have an education day at least once a year where fire crews would come to the schools and provide mock ups with MADD for the driving generation and home fire safety and the importance of having a fire plan in the house with the younger children. In this regard, they knew the consequences of drinking and driving (high as well) and how to get out of a home and call the authorities in an emergency.
Kathleen Corriveau (New Blue Party of Ontario), Nepean
As an elected official, and as a member of the New Blue Party, I would consult with representatives of your Association to understand your key priorities and learn from the experts within Fire Services, and the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management (OFMEM), which programs and initiatives are most impactful for improving community and firefighter safety. Having worked in the field of Emergency Management for a number of years in various capacities, I believe that community and firefighter safety can improve with a combination of having better equipment, training, community outreach, prevention programs, and funding.
Marc Adornato (None Of The Above Party Direct Democracy Party), Ottawa Centre
Hi folks, I am definitely not going to win this election so don't waste your vote on me, but HUGE respect to the work you folks do.If I had any say, I'd triple your funding, get you all the best gear, pad your salaries and benefits to the max, and send the bill to Canada's wealthiest including Ottawa's own Tobias Lutke (Shopify) worth $8.69 billion CAN.
Also, the Thompson brothers (David $10.78 billion Peter $10.78 billion and little Taylor Thomson – $10.78 billion), Sherry Brydson with $17.38 billion, and check out Changpeng Zhao, worth $85.93 billion dollars?! Yeah, so I would increase your funding.
Check out the 67 wealthiest billionaire Canadians here:
https://hardbacon.ca/en/richest/richest-canadians/
Chris Beauchamp (None of the Above Direct Democracy Party), Carleton
One of the three principles of the None of the Above Direct Democracy Party (NOTA) is continuous consultation with stakeholders and constituents through a referendum process. We believe that decisions should be made in collaboration with the public. We recognize that this has never been the case in the past.
Provincial governments and their employees, by and large, are not the experts in health and safety initiatives. We would commit therefore to engaging with all stakeholders, including the OPFFA, to develop common-sense progressive initiatives to improve the safety of the
community and our firefighters. We would then present these initiatives to the voters for their input and pass legislation that has the support of the majority of voters in Ontario.
David McGruer (Freedom Party of Ontario), Ottawa-Vanier
Firefighters provide a valuable service to citizens. In a free society fighting fires and other emergencies is not an action taken to protect the rights of citizens and thus government does not have a proper role in firefighting. Rather, it is properly under contract law and done by mutual consent of the citizen and a provider of firefighting services. Such services may be contracted individually, by voluntary
groups or by insurance companies. Thus, while I appreciate the work of firefighters and recognize that fire-related safety of the community and firefighters alike is important, in a free society these issues are outside the scope of a properly constituted government.
Raymond Samuels, Ontario People's Front, Ottawa Centre
We would be guided by the programs and initiatives that firefighters recommend based upon their own day-to-day experiences instead of telling firefighters what we think they need.
Our Ontario People's Front is a grassroots-oriented political party movement which recognizes the need for a proactive approach to workplace safety. This includes making sure firefighters have excellent equipment and other protective gear to alleviate concerns regarding personal endangerment.
No response was received from the following candidates:
Carleton Electoral District – Tom Dawson (Ontario Liberal Party), Ethan Ferguson (Ontario Party), Goldie Ghamari (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Kevin St. Denis (Ontario New Democratic Party), Rob Stocki (New Blue Party of Ontario), Cody Zulinski (Green Party of Ontario)
Kanata Carleton Electoral District – Brian Chuipka (Ontario Party), Pat Freel (Green Party of Ontario), Merrilee Fullerton (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Shahbaz Syed (Ontario Liberal Party)
Nepean Electoral District – Brian Double (Ontario New Democratic Party), Bryan Emmerson (Ontario Party), Lisa MacLeod (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Kaitlyn Tremblay (Green Party of Ontario), Tyler Watt (Ontario Liberal Party)
Orleans Electoral District – Gabe Bourdon (Ontario New Democratic Party), Vince Clements (Ontario Party), Melissa Felian (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Ken Lewis (Libertarian), Michelle Peterson (Green Party of Ontario), Liam Randall (New Blue Party of Ontario)
Ottawa Centre Electoral District – Glen Armstrong (New Blue Party of Ontario), Shelby Bertrand (Green Party of Ontario), Thomas Borcsok (Independent), Katie Gibbs (Ontario Liberal Party), Joel Harden (Ontario New Democratic Party), Scott Healy (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Josh Rachlis (Independent), Stuart Ryan (Communist Party of Canada - Ontario)
Ottawa-South Electoral District – Myles Dear (Ontario Party), Edward Dinca (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Nira Dookeran (Green Party of Ontario), John Fraser (Ontario Liberal Party), Morgan Gay (Ontario New Democratic Party), Martin Ince (New Blue Party of Ontario), Daniel Thomas (Independent), Larry Wasslen (Communist Party of Canada - Ontario)
Ottawa-Vanier Electoral District – Eric Armstrong-Giroux (Ontario Party), Lucille Collard (Ontario Liberal Party), Coreen Corcoran (Ontario Libertarian Party), Blake Hamilton (None of the Above Direct Democracy Party), Patrick Mayangi (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Michael Pastien (New Blue Party of Ontario), Christian Proulx (Green Party of Ontario)
Ottawa-West Nepean Electoral District – Scott Blandford (New Blue Party of Ontario), Vilteau Delvas (Ontario Party), Jeremy Roberts (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Steven Warren (Green Party of Ontario)
Question 2Ontario's presumptive cancer coverage for firefighters recognizes 17 cancers; however, it lags that of Manitoba, Nova Scotia, and the Yukon which recognize 19 cancers. Does your party commit to expanding Ontario’s presumptive coverage for firefighters to include thyroid and pancreatic cancer?
Sam Bhalesar (Ontario Liberal Party), Ottawa-West Nepean
Last September 17, Yukon Territory started the process by indicating it would introduce legislation adding thyroid and pancreatic cancer to its list of presumptive coverage, which would make it the first jurisdiction in Canada to cover those illnesses. I would earnestly consider an update of the cancer supports for firefighters by considering adding thyroid, pancreatic, larynx, penile, mesothelioma, and soft-tissue sarcoma to the list of presumptive cancers and to work towards improving data collection for the firefighting occupation.
Stephen Blais (Ontario Liberal Party), Orleans
Before committing to this pledge, I will be honest and say that I will need to speak with the experts, including your Association. However, please note that my respect for firefighters and comprehension of their duties, including risks will weigh heavily in my decision making process.
Melissa Coenraad (Ontario New Democratic Party), Kanata-Carleton
I will work with my NDP colleagues to ensure that Ontario’s presumptive cancer coverage for firefighters is up-to-date and comprehensive.
Lyra Evans (Ontario New Democratic Party), Ottawa-Vanier
The NDP has committed to covering all cancer treatments under OHIP. While this doesn’t explicitly cover treatment for firefighters, firefighters are part of everyone, so I think it is fair to say Yes.
Le NPD s’est engagé à couvrir tous les traitements pour le cancer sous l’Assurance santé de l’Ontario. Bien que cela ne mentionne explicitement les pompier.ières, « tout le monde » inclut les pompier.ières, donc je crois qu’on peut dire sans se tromper que la réponse est « oui ».
Chandra Pasma (Ontario New Democratic Party), Ottawa-West Nepean
Andrea Horwath and the NDP have always fought for recognition of the specific and significant dangers firefighters face on the job, and an expansion of presumptive coverage for firefighter and other first responders. In fact, it was Andrea who first introduced legislation that would provide presumptive coverage of cancers faced by firefighters on the job, after the terrible Plastimet fire in her riding in Hamilton resulted in local firefighters becoming ill and tragically dying as a result of their heroic efforts on the job that day.
Since then, New Democrats have ceaselessly championed recognition and fair compensation for firefighters hurt and made ill on job, whether this was Andrea’s Bill 111, or more recently Wayne Gates’s Bill 125, Justice for Victims of Occupational Disease Act (2022), that would expand the list of occupational illnesses recognized under WSIA. We will continue to prioritize the health and safety of firefighters, and other first responders, when we form government.
Jennifer Boudreau (New Blue Party of Ontario), Kanata-Carleton
First responders should not be made to fight for compensation when exposed to hazards of the vocation. We expect lifesaving help when we need it most and we are lucky to have fine people we can depend on. Your fight is to save lives in terrible situations; it should not be against the compensation organization.
Kathleen Corriveau (New Blue Party of Ontario), Nepean
As an MPP for the New Blue Party, I would investigate the reasons why the coverage hasn’t been expanded to include thyroid and pancreatic cancers, and work towards adding these to the list of presumptive cancers for Ontario. There surely must be a body of research that supports their recognition as presumptive cancers by other jurisdictions in Canada.
Marc Adornato (None Of The Above Party Direct Democracy Party), Ottawa Centre
Of course I would cover 2 more cancers, and frankly any other ailment that is directly or indirectly related to the job.
'People over Profit' is how I roll. Every citizen should have full, free healthcare. WTF is wrong with society? Christ!
Chris Beauchamp (None of the Above Direct Democracy Party), Carleton
I personally believe that a society is judged by how it treats its most vulnerable citizens and how it treats its first responders. No employee in Ontario should become sick, injured or die because of the work they do; especially when this work involves safeguarding the safety of others. Sadly, this is not always the case; especially with front line workers in dangerous occupations.
The NOTA party will support evidence-based decision-making on technical and scientific matters. If there is ample causal evidence, in the care of firefighters, that thyroid and pancreatic cancer or any other cancer can be clearly linked to the workplace, we would support
presenting this issue to the voters of Ontario for their input and support.
David McGruer (Freedom Party of Ontario), Ottawa-Vanier
Raymond Samuels, Ontario People's Front, Ottawa Centre
Our Ontario People's Front not only recognizes the need to expand presumptive coverage for firefighters to include thyroid and pancreatic cancer, but also the need to make rigorous screening opportunities available to firefighters to ensure that any cancer found is redressed as soon as possible.
We support the University of the Fraser Valley's recommendations that -
An initial screening program for firefighters might involve a comprehensive physical examination, laboratory tests including complete blood count, serum chemistries, urinalysis and a bowel investigation such as endoscopy, CT colonography or fecal blood analysis. The screening of female firefighters could additionally include mammography and other areas."
No response was received from the following candidates:
Carleton Electoral District – Tom Dawson (Ontario Liberal Party), Ethan Ferguson (Ontario Party), Goldie Ghamari (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Kevin St. Denis (Ontario New Democratic Party), Rob Stocki (New Blue Party of Ontario), Cody Zulinski (Green Party of Ontario)
Kanata Carleton Electoral District – Brian Chuipka (Ontario Party), Pat Freel (Green Party of Ontario), Merrilee Fullerton (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Shahbaz Syed (Ontario Liberal Party)
Nepean Electoral District – Brian Double (Ontario New Democratic Party), Bryan Emmerson (Ontario Party), Lisa MacLeod (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Kaitlyn Tremblay (Green Party of Ontario), Tyler Watt (Ontario Liberal Party)
Orleans Electoral District – Gabe Bourdon (Ontario New Democratic Party), Vince Clements (Ontario Party), Melissa Felian (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Ken Lewis (Libertarian), Michelle Peterson (Green Party of Ontario), Liam Randall (New Blue Party of Ontario)
Ottawa Centre Electoral District – Glen Armstrong (New Blue Party of Ontario), Shelby Bertrand (Green Party of Ontario), Thomas Borcsok (Independent), Katie Gibbs (Ontario Liberal Party), Joel Harden (Ontario New Democratic Party), Scott Healy (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Josh Rachlis (Independent), Stuart Ryan (Communist Party of Canada - Ontario)
Ottawa-South Electoral District – Myles Dear (Ontario Party), Edward Dinca (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Nira Dookeran (Green Party of Ontario), John Fraser (Ontario Liberal Party), Morgan Gay (Ontario New Democratic Party), Martin Ince (New Blue Party of Ontario), Daniel Thomas (Independent), Larry Wasslen (Communist Party of Canada - Ontario)
Ottawa-Vanier Electoral District – Eric Armstrong-Giroux (Ontario Party), Lucille Collard (Ontario Liberal Party), Coreen Corcoran (Ontario Libertarian Party), Blake Hamilton (None of the Above Direct Democracy Party), Patrick Mayangi (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Michael Pastien (New Blue Party of Ontario), Christian Proulx (Green Party of Ontario)
Ottawa-West Nepean Electoral District – Scott Blandford (New Blue Party of Ontario), Vilteau Delvas (Ontario Party), Jeremy Roberts (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Steven Warren (Green Party of Ontario)
Question 3
Automated links between Provincial Central Ambulance Communication Centres (CACC) and Municipal Fire Dispatch Centres allow for real-time bi-directional sharing of information, remove human delays, and automatically notify the second agency of life-threatening medical emergencies. This system of simultaneous notification is in place in several early adopter sites (Barrie, Guelph, Kitchener/Cambridge, Mississauga, and Brampton) and has been shown to improve response times. Unfortunately, automated links are not currently in place between the Ottawa CACC and Ottawa Fire Service (OFS) Dispatch. Is your party committed to implementing simultaneous notification across the province, including the City of Ottawa?
Sam Bhalesar (Ontario Liberal Party), Ottawa-West Nepean
I believe evolving technology will play a role in communications through increased automation of communications, use of artificial intelligence and machine learning, including advanced capabilities through telemedicine technology, and virtualized technology to transform service delivery and enable innovative workforce models including examining the implementation of simultaneous notification across the province.
Stephen Blais (Ontario Liberal Party), Orleans
Yes, I fully, without equivocation, support implementing simultaneous notification across the province, including the City of Ottawa.
Melissa Coenraad (Ontario New Democratic Party), Kanata-Carleton
Yes, This is an important initiative.
Lyra Evans (Ontario New Democratic Party), Ottawa-Vanier
The party platform has committed to “building up fire services and supplying both equipment and training”. I would say yes, the implementation of automated links between provincial ambulance and municipal fire dispatch centers is a logical next step as they have proven to save lives in other jurisdictions.
Le plateforme du parti s’engage à « développer les services des pompiers et provisionner les équipements et la formation ». Je dirais que oui, l’implémentation de connexions automatiques entre les centres ambulanciers provinciaux et les casernes à pompiers municipaux est une prochaine étape logique, car il a sauvé des vies dans d’autres jurisdictions.
Chandra Pasma (Ontario New Democratic Party), Ottawa-West Nepean
We supported the pilot, and are committed to consult with all services, and municipalities impacted.
Jennifer Boudreau (New Blue Party of Ontario), Kanata-Carleton
We live in a connected community with technology making our lives easier every day and where time based sensitive and lifesaving opportunities exist these must be employed and deployed to our end users. After all, we are the direct beneficiaries of these efficiencies. But why simply stop at making it the same? Perhaps while the notification system is being utilized other options for optimization and data sharing can be explored for further efficiencies at making your lives easier while engaged in saving ours.
Kathleen Corriveau (New Blue Party of Ontario), Nepean
As someone who has worked in the field of Emergency Management for many years, I am personally an avid proponent of improving the emergency notification systems such as adopting the Next Generation 9-1-1 system, or similar real-time bi-directional automated system. Although a supporter of simultaneous notifications system, implementing it for Ottawa, and across Ontario would depend on feasibility and affordability.
Marc Adornato (None Of The Above Party Direct Democracy Party), Ottawa Centre
Ottawa is a slow-moving bureaucratic cluster-fuck (did you see the 3 week occupation/party we just had?).
And it sounds like this simultaneous notification system is already working in other places so it's not like we need to reinvent this wheel either.
I'd get it up and running on day 1. What the actual fuck? Y'know Bell Rogers and Telus make record profits in communications technology every quarter. I mean, is it a cost thing to get this shit up and running? Cause Christ, it's time to start taxing those price-gouging corporations, banks, and gas companies. WTF?!
Chris Beauchamp (None of the Above Direct Democracy Party), Carleton
This automated link seems like a no-brainer because it will undoubtedly save lives and save property. If the results from the pilot studies in other municipalities show positive results, and if this is something that stakeholders such as the OPFFA support, it seems like a logical next step. The only area that I’m unsure of is related to jurisdiction. I would assume that this would have to be done in collaboration with the City of Ottawa and there would be shared cost and shared logistics.
David McGruer (Freedom Party of Ontario), Ottawa-Vanier
In a free society all manner of cooperative ventures between organizations are allowed, so long as they are through mutual consent and freedom allows for a maximum degree of experimentation to make steady improvements. We see this in all areas where there is little government interference in the actions of citizens. Wherever freedom is allowed, progress flourishes. In your question you refer to a lack of cooperation between emergency response organizations and I believe this is due to the bureaucracy created by government controls. Set free of such controls, firefighters and other emergency response providers would see much more innovation and gains in efficiency.
For example, a private space company has recently created a rocket that is two thousand times cheaper than the best NASA has managed to produce. Super-flexible services such as Uber are replacing the sclerotic regulated taxi monopolies wherever Uber is free to operate. Wherever and whenever freedom exists and rights protected, humanity flourishes. Again, the specifics of this question are outside the proper functioning of government so I can’t provide any specific response.
Raymond Samuels, Ontario People's Front, Ottawa Centre
Yes, we support a corresponding notification process.
No response was received from the following candidates:
Carleton Electoral District – Tom Dawson (Ontario Liberal Party), Ethan Ferguson (Ontario Party), Goldie Ghamari (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Kevin St. Denis (Ontario New Democratic Party), Rob Stocki (New Blue Party of Ontario), Cody Zulinski (Green Party of Ontario)
Kanata Carleton Electoral District – Brian Chuipka (Ontario Party), Pat Freel (Green Party of Ontario), Merrilee Fullerton (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Shahbaz Syed (Ontario Liberal Party)
Nepean Electoral District – Brian Double (Ontario New Democratic Party), Bryan Emmerson (Ontario Party), Lisa MacLeod (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Kaitlyn Tremblay (Green Party of Ontario), Tyler Watt (Ontario Liberal Party)
Orleans Electoral District – Gabe Bourdon (Ontario New Democratic Party), Vince Clements (Ontario Party), Melissa Felian (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Ken Lewis (Libertarian), Michelle Peterson (Green Party of Ontario), Liam Randall (New Blue Party of Ontario)
Ottawa Centre Electoral District – Glen Armstrong (New Blue Party of Ontario), Shelby Bertrand (Green Party of Ontario), Thomas Borcsok (Independent), Katie Gibbs (Ontario Liberal Party), Joel Harden (Ontario New Democratic Party), Scott Healy (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Josh Rachlis (Independent), Stuart Ryan (Communist Party of Canada - Ontario)
Ottawa-South Electoral District – Myles Dear (Ontario Party), Edward Dinca (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Nira Dookeran (Green Party of Ontario), John Fraser (Ontario Liberal Party), Morgan Gay (Ontario New Democratic Party), Martin Ince (New Blue Party of Ontario), Daniel Thomas (Independent), Larry Wasslen (Communist Party of Canada - Ontario)
Ottawa-Vanier Electoral District – Eric Armstrong-Giroux (Ontario Party), Lucille Collard (Ontario Liberal Party), Coreen Corcoran (Ontario Libertarian Party), Blake Hamilton (None of the Above Direct Democracy Party), Patrick Mayangi (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Michael Pastien (New Blue Party of Ontario), Christian Proulx (Green Party of Ontario)
Ottawa-West Nepean Electoral District – Scott Blandford (New Blue Party of Ontario), Vilteau Delvas (Ontario Party), Jeremy Roberts (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Steven Warren (Green Party of Ontario)
Question 4
The right of workers to bargain collectively is protected as an exercise of freedom of association under s. 2(d) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Free and fair collective bargaining is vital to ensuring employers and trade unions can establish fair wages and working conditions. Legislation that mandates a particular compensation outcome is unfair and interferes with the collective bargaining process. Will your party commit to repealing Bill 124 and to not introducing (nor voting in favour of) similar wage constraint legislation?
Sam Bhalesar (Ontario Liberal Party), Ottawa-West Nepean
I would advocate for the repeal of the wage-capping Bill 124 so we can prevent professionals from leaving their employment. Ontario Liberals will do what the Ford Conservatives failed to do: value these frontline workers by paying them more.
Stephen Blais (Ontario Liberal Party), Orleans
Let me be clear: I will vote to repeal Bill 124 and not vote in favour of similar wage constraint legislation. Nobody will be able to convince me to do otherwise.
Melissa Coenraad (Ontario New Democratic Party), Kanata-Carleton
The Ontario NDP opposed Bill 124, and would repeal it upon election to office.
Lyra Evans (Ontario New Democratic Party), Ottawa-Vanier
Bill 124 was abhorrent. The NDP has committed to repealing it in six different places in our platform, and I wouldn’t support such legislation even if the party decided to put up something similar. Collective bargaining is how everyday people level the negotiating table with their bosses, whether they be the government or a corporation, and ensure a fair contract.
La loi 124 était odieuse. Le NPD s’est engagé à l’abroger dans six parties différentes de notre plateforme, et je ne soutiendrais jamais de telle législation même si le parti décidait de proposer quelque chose de similaire. La négociation collective est comment les gens ordinaires égalisent les chances de négociation avec leurs patrons, qu’ils sont un gouvernement ou une entreprise, pour assurer un contrat juste.
Chandra Pasma (Ontario New Democratic Party), Ottawa-West Nepean
Yes, we will repeal the unfair, anti-worker, and wage suppressing Bill 124. We support and recognize the protected right of workers to collectively bargain.
Jennifer Boudreau (New Blue Party of Ontario), Kanata-Carleton
Although it makes sense on paper, for fiscal responsibility, it makes no sense at all when put into practice as it limits wage increases to below even that of the small inflationary increases. This is akin to our families favorite movie, “Griswold’s Christmas Vacation’” where the boss removed bonuses, only to see how it affected people in the end. There are certainly better ways to save money at Queens Park and limiting your front-line workers ability to keep up with the cost of living is not only wrong, but morally cruel. I would also support re-hiring all first responders and health workers that were sidelined due to their vaccination status. Any and every little bit helps. These people were able to discharge their duties with professionalism without concern for almost two years, only to be vilified later. We cannot limit our ability to compensate our front-line workers. Doing so only makes their lives more difficult and removes their focus which could ultimately through lack of focus and errors lead to injury or death on the job. We want and need them to discharge their duties, daily, and come back with the same energy. This also means supporting them with mental health practitioners, not as a sign of weakness, but as a sign of respect, because even the strongest need help at one point or another.
Kathleen Corriveau (New Blue Party of Ontario), Nepean
As a representative of the New Blue Party, I am aligned with the party’s libertarian principles that governments generally need to limit any overreach and empower their citizens instead. As such, I support free and fair collective bargaining for fair wages and safe working conditions. I speculate the Party would favour repealing Bill 124 to align with its constitution and founding principles. Currently Bill
124 does not even allow for wage increases to correspond with the rates of inflation. At the very least, legislation needs to be corrected for this.
Marc Adornato (None Of The Above Party Direct Democracy Party), Ottawa Centre
Wage constraint legislation? Those fucking jerk-offs.
I would definitely commit to repealing Bill 124.
I'd also put wage constraints on any MPP who would vote for such a thing. Heartless assholes need to give their head a shake!
Chris Beauchamp (None of the Above Direct Democracy Party), Carleton
For far too long, labour unions and professional associations have been locked in a battle with governments. From an outsider looking in, it seems like the bitterness and animosity runs so deeply that these parties do not want to compromise or arrive at common sense solutions as a matter of principle. With NOTA, there would be a clean slate. More importantly, though a referendum process, if the majority of the voters in Ontario want to repeal or amend Bill 124, we would support this. I have no doubt that the large majority of voters in Ontario support firefighters.
David McGruer (Freedom Party of Ontario), Ottawa-Vanier
This is a question where I can offer meaningful comments but it contains very mixed premises. Freedom of contract is indeed one of the core rights of individuals and this right may properly be delegated to a negotiating body such as through group membership. Where the law has gone afoul on this subject is that it does not recognize the individual rights of employers to contract. The law has been slanted in favour of unions through anti-scab provisions, for example. If an individual or group does not wish to work under the terms offered, the employer has an absolute right to terminate the relationship and hire others.
You use the word “fair” in conjunction with “free” and I do not see these as properly joined. A “fair” bargaining process is one where physical coercion is absent and the rights of each party are respected. Fair can never mean a particular outcome is reached, it means an agreement reached through mutual consent, meaning that it is win-win - in other words it means free. Any other use of the word fair is
certain to be an attempt to subvert its true meaning and thus avoid objectivity. I absolutely agree that any legislation that mandates a particular compensation is unfair and unfree - it is not proper for a society of rational beings. It is irrational and immoral. A FPO government would go much further than your request and would work diligently towards removing all wage-related legislation.
Raymond Samuels, Ontario People's Front, Ottawa Centre
Our Ontario People's Front recognized that firefighting is a very high risk job and that regular collective bargaining processes on wages should be available to them with restriction by Bill 124 and similar legislation.
No response was received from the following candidates:
Carleton Electoral District – Tom Dawson (Ontario Liberal Party), Ethan Ferguson (Ontario Party), Goldie Ghamari (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Kevin St. Denis (Ontario New Democratic Party), Rob Stocki (New Blue Party of Ontario), Cody Zulinski (Green Party of Ontario)
Kanata Carleton Electoral District – Brian Chuipka (Ontario Party), Pat Freel (Green Party of Ontario), Merrilee Fullerton (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Shahbaz Syed (Ontario Liberal Party)
Nepean Electoral District – Brian Double (Ontario New Democratic Party), Bryan Emmerson (Ontario Party), Lisa MacLeod (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Kaitlyn Tremblay (Green Party of Ontario), Tyler Watt (Ontario Liberal Party)
Orleans Electoral District – Gabe Bourdon (Ontario New Democratic Party), Vince Clements (Ontario Party), Melissa Felian (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Ken Lewis (Libertarian), Michelle Peterson (Green Party of Ontario), Liam Randall (New Blue Party of Ontario)
Ottawa Centre Electoral District – Glen Armstrong (New Blue Party of Ontario), Shelby Bertrand (Green Party of Ontario), Thomas Borcsok (Independent), Katie Gibbs (Ontario Liberal Party), Joel Harden (Ontario New Democratic Party), Scott Healy (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Josh Rachlis (Independent), Stuart Ryan (Communist Party of Canada - Ontario)
Ottawa-South Electoral District – Myles Dear (Ontario Party), Edward Dinca (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Nira Dookeran (Green Party of Ontario), John Fraser (Ontario Liberal Party), Morgan Gay (Ontario New Democratic Party), Martin Ince (New Blue Party of Ontario), Daniel Thomas (Independent), Larry Wasslen (Communist Party of Canada - Ontario)
Ottawa-Vanier Electoral District – Eric Armstrong-Giroux (Ontario Party), Lucille Collard (Ontario Liberal Party), Coreen Corcoran (Ontario Libertarian Party), Blake Hamilton (None of the Above Direct Democracy Party), Patrick Mayangi (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Michael Pastien (New Blue Party of Ontario), Christian Proulx (Green Party of Ontario)
Ottawa-West Nepean Electoral District – Scott Blandford (New Blue Party of Ontario), Vilteau Delvas (Ontario Party), Jeremy Roberts (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Steven Warren (Green Party of Ontario)
Question 5Meeting with elected officials is important to our Association because it gives us an opportunity to brief decision makers on issues that are important to professional firefighters as well as our community. If elected, will you schedule time to meet with our Association on a regular basis?
Sam Bhalesar (Ontario Liberal Party), Ottawa-West Nepean
I would be pleased to have regular meetings with the Association following my election as Ottawa West Nepean MPP. I am a fervent advocate for maintaining communication with all my constituents and representative associations. Personal interaction is the best means to recognize solutions.
Stephen Blais (Ontario Liberal Party), Orleans
I literally owe my life to Ottawa firefighters. When I suffered a massive heart attack in 2013, if it were not for an off-duty firefighter who happened to walk into the gym at that moment and saw what was going on, I would not have received immediate and professional attention. In addition, firefighters were in the parking lot across the road for a minor fender-bender, and this off-duty firefighter ran over to get them.
Therefore, let me be clear: Anytime in the day or year, whenever a firefighter or your association would like to meet with me, my door will be open, my phone ready to answer and my ear ready to listen.
This is the least I can do for professionals who run into burning buildings while the rest of us are running out of them.
Lastly, if it were not for the initial intervention of firefighters, my son is without a father, my wife is a widow and my parents experience one of life’s greatest tragedies of having to bury a child.
Melissa Coenraad (Ontario New Democratic Party), Kanata-Carleton
I would be happy to do so.
Lyra Evans (Ontario New Democratic Party), Ottawa-Vanier
I love open door policies, I have had one in my time on the school board, and I would do my best to implement such a policy as an MPP.
J’adore la politique de la porte ouverte, c’était mon approche pendant mon temps sur le conseil scolaire, et je ferai mon mieux d’implémenter une telle politique comme députée provinciale.
Chandra Pasma (Ontario New Democratic Party), Ottawa-West Nepean
An enthusiastic yes! In fact, our MPPS have always welcomed the insights and unique perspectives your members bring – myself included – as is the case for all of our first time candidates, and that will continue when we form the next government.
Jennifer Boudreau (New Blue Party of Ontario), Kanata-Carleton
I would represent the interests of the people of Kanata Carleton at Queens Park in true collaborative fashion. I am here for the constituents and that means I must engage the constituents. This means unless a vote is called with only hours to spare, I would regularly make myself available in person to hear from all those who venture out to engage with and offer their advice on any variety of topics, the good and the bad so that we may move forward with the best interest of the community and the province. I would of course be reachable via electronic means such as email or telephone, but meeting in person to hear and see the passion behind the voice has a far greater impact.
Kathleen Corriveau (New Blue Party of Ontario), Nepean
As an elected official, it is my duty to properly represent members of the constituency, including various associations and community groups. As such, I would encourage having regular meetings, as practical and necessary to hear any concerns, to share information, provide updates on issues of concern like legislative or regulatory changes.
Marc Adornato (None Of The Above Party Direct Democracy Party), Ottawa Centre
Man, I've already been meeting with firefighters here in my backyard 4 times in the last month cuz my neighbours keep calling the fire department on my tiny little wood burning fire pit (which I would also legalize little wood fire pits and chickens in Ottawa if you have a big enough yard.
Now I had to get a "propane" firepit but the neighbours keep calling in the fire trucks on me. Props to the dudes at Station 34, 700 Brookfield Rd, Ottawa, near Hogs Back Falls who keep popping over to see my propane fire pit in my backyard. Met at least 15 of you now.
Anyway, you folks can come to my backyard anytime to hangout. I'll supply the beers. You guys are the best.
Keep fighting the good fight and stay safe.
Chris Beauchamp (None of the Above Direct Democracy Party), Carleton
I have been personally committed to consultation and collaboration throughout my professional career. This is why the NOTA Party appeals to me. We share a common vision. I can unequivocally say that we will meet with the OPFFA on a regular basis.
In addition to the principle of referendum, we also believe in the principle of recall. If an elected official does not follow through on promises and commitments, this individual can be removed from office. As a result, if we do not follow through on our commitment to meet with the OPFFA on a regular basis, there is a process to hold us accountable. In short, we keep our promises.
David McGruer (Freedom Party of Ontario), Ottawa-Vanier
In a free society government acts only to protect the rights of citizens and otherwise is hands-off, having no political favours to hand out and thus lobbying is of no benefit. Under a FPO government provincial politicians would not be making decisions about the operations of firefighters, thus there would be no motive to meet with politicians unless it was to offer thoughts about the protection of the individual rights of citizen-firefighters. Would the door be open - of course, but few would care to walk through it.
Raymond Samuels, Ontario People's Front, Ottawa Centre
Yes, we would seek to have regular Association meetings.
No response was received from the following candidates:
Carleton Electoral District – Tom Dawson (Ontario Liberal Party), Ethan Ferguson (Ontario Party), Goldie Ghamari (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Kevin St. Denis (Ontario New Democratic Party), Rob Stocki (New Blue Party of Ontario), Cody Zulinski (Green Party of Ontario)
Kanata Carleton Electoral District – Brian Chuipka (Ontario Party), Pat Freel (Green Party of Ontario), Merrilee Fullerton (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Shahbaz Syed (Ontario Liberal Party)
Nepean Electoral District – Brian Double (Ontario New Democratic Party), Bryan Emmerson (Ontario Party), Lisa MacLeod (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Kaitlyn Tremblay (Green Party of Ontario), Tyler Watt (Ontario Liberal Party)
Orleans Electoral District – Gabe Bourdon (Ontario New Democratic Party), Vince Clements (Ontario Party), Melissa Felian (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Ken Lewis (Libertarian), Michelle Peterson (Green Party of Ontario), Liam Randall (New Blue Party of Ontario)
Ottawa Centre Electoral District – Glen Armstrong (New Blue Party of Ontario), Shelby Bertrand (Green Party of Ontario), Thomas Borcsok (Independent), Katie Gibbs (Ontario Liberal Party), Joel Harden (Ontario New Democratic Party), Scott Healy (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Josh Rachlis (Independent), Stuart Ryan (Communist Party of Canada - Ontario)
Ottawa-South Electoral District – Myles Dear (Ontario Party), Edward Dinca (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Nira Dookeran (Green Party of Ontario), John Fraser (Ontario Liberal Party), Morgan Gay (Ontario New Democratic Party), Martin Ince (New Blue Party of Ontario), Daniel Thomas (Independent), Larry Wasslen (Communist Party of Canada - Ontario)
Ottawa-Vanier Electoral District – Eric Armstrong-Giroux (Ontario Party), Lucille Collard (Ontario Liberal Party), Coreen Corcoran (Ontario Libertarian Party), Blake Hamilton (None of the Above Direct Democracy Party), Patrick Mayangi (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Michael Pastien (New Blue Party of Ontario), Christian Proulx (Green Party of Ontario)
Ottawa-West Nepean Electoral District – Scott Blandford (New Blue Party of Ontario), Vilteau Delvas (Ontario Party), Jeremy Roberts (Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario), Steven Warren (Green Party of Ontario)
