Waterloo Region MPPs reflect on 2015, plan for 2016
Ontario's Legislature convened for its winter break on Dec. 10, but local MPPs are not taking the break easy. Instead, they're busy taking stock of the year that was, and preparing for the new year ahead.
The Morning Show's host Craig Norris sat down with Waterloo Region's three MPPs to find out what they're thinking about as the year winds down.
Daiene Vernile, Kitchener-Centre
Looking back: Vernile says chairing the province's Select Committee on Sexual Violence and Harassment was both the best and the hardest experience of the past year, as it involved hearing "hours and hours" of heart-breaking stories from 147 witnesses.
Looking forward: Vernile says commitment remains "very strong" and the government is moving "as fast as we can" to improve GO service between Kitchener and Toronto. She says the next step is for the government to come to an agreement with CN Rail over the use of a portion of rail corridor between Georgetown and Brampton.
Michael Harris, Kitchener-Conestoga
Looking back: Harris says he is disappointed by how long it is taking the Liberal government to make good on a promise to improve GO service to the region, adding that two extra trains heading to Toronto in the morning is "not enough" to encourage development in the region.
Looking forward: Harris says light rail transit remains a contentious issue in the region and would like to see the first phase completed before steps are taken to expand the service to Cambridge. He says the local governments need to put forward a "clear business case ... to justify Phase 2."
Catherine Fife, Kitchener Waterloo
Looking back: Fife says the Liberal government's attention on beer sales and marijuana is misguided, noting that Ontario is dealing with more pressing issues, including a "serious housing shortage."
Looking forward: Fife continues to oppose the Liberal government's decision to sell Hydro One, saying the Financial Accountability Officer's latest report suggests the province will lose money in the sale and, as a result, the sale "doesn't make any financial sense."
