Glen Murray's April 2013 Newsletter

April 2013 26/04/2013 Dear Constituents, We have seen some exciting action in the Ontario Legislature over the past months. We are working hard to secure a bright future for Ontarians by continuing to strengthen our economy, investing in health care and working to pass a budget that moves Ontario forward. I wanted to take this opportunity to update you on our Government’s current work and let you know about some exciting upcoming community events. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact my staff at my constituency office. Thank you. Glen Murray MPP Toronto Centre 514 Parliament Toronto, ON M4X 1P4 Phone: 416-972-7683 gmurray.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org A Budget to Move Ontario Forward The Government’s budget for 2013 will be announced on Thursday May 2nd. Budget information will be available online after the details have been announced in the legislature. A vote will take place on the budget sometime between May 15th and May 30th. I would encourage you to contact me with any questions you have about the budget process as we move through this important time in the legislature. Stronger Consumer Protection Laws Our government is taking strong steps to provide vulnerable consumers with protection against unfair business practices of some companies that offer debt settlement services. Changes include: Banning companies from charging upfront fees for debt settlement services Limiting the total amount of fees consumers are charged Requiring clear, easy-to-understand contracts Allowing the licenses of non-compliant companies to be revoked Expanded Access to Physiotherapy for Seniors More than 200,000 Ontarians will receive more one-on-one, high-quality physiotherapy and falls prevention programming will be offered in long-term care homes and community settings. These improvements will provide better care for better value. Creation of the College of Trades The College of Trades will ensure that all licensed tradespeople in Ontario are skilled, well-trained and accountable. This will help to protect the safety of not only the public but workers and apprentices as well. A public register will allow consumers as well as employers to check to see if the person that they’re considering hiring is a member in good standing. We believe the people who work in our skilled trades deserve the same privileges and respect that we afford to professionals such as teachers, doctors, nurses, and accountants. New Funding for Home Care Our government has made the conscious decision to focus on care in the community so that there are more options available to older Ontarians to help them stay in the comfort of their own home longer. To follow through on this commitment, $260 million in new funding will go to support home care expansion in Ontario. Our investments will lead to a five day average guarantee that applies to patients with complex care needs. About 46,000 new patients will be served each year across the province. Local Initiatives/Events The days are growing longer and warmer and with those come the excitement of summer festivities. Below we list a few upcoming events and opportunities that are definitely worth checking out. Looking for Summer Work? Through the Ontario Summer Jobs Strategy, students can search for jobs, get help with their resume and learn how to start a company. Check out www.ontario.ca/summerjobs or call 1800-387-5656 to find out more. Forsythia Festival – Including a parade, children’s activities, live entertainment, great food and a beer garden. Where: Cabbagetown When: 10am-3pm, May 5th Contact: Laura or Trish (info@cabbagetowner.com) Public Legal Information Sessions – Learn about wills and small claims court Where: The Law Society of Upper Canada, 130 Queen St W. When: 5:30pm, May 7th Contact: Register online beforehand – www.ojen.ca/registerMay7 or by phone 416-947-3413 ext 3413 Environment Day & Sidewalk Sale Where: On The Esplanade at Lower Sherbourne When: 10am-3pm, Saturday April 27th Contact: Ronny (416-366-6162) Rental Proceeds go to Princess Park Children's Play Garden and St. Lawrence Seniors. Community Yard Sale - a MULTI Family event with thousands of items and everyone is welcome to participate Where: Sherbourne to Parliament, Carlton to Shuter When: 9am, May 25th Contact: Jennifer (jennylouwalker@gmail.com)