The purpose behind the revisions of the Elections Finances Act are the principles of fairness, providing an even playing field, democratic process, transparency and openness. We truly support these principles and want these front and centre in elections and everything related to political life. However, due to the lack of clarity regarding what 'political advertising' includes, the proposed changes are problematic for a community organization such as ours that devotes time to educating and advocating on various social issues. The definition blurs an important line between political partisan activity and issue focused activity. With this definition, at any point in time in the six months prior to an election call and during the election period, community organizations may not be able to address issues or participate in public dialogue on social issues for fear these might become identified with a party or candidate. Read the full submission to the Standing Committee on General Government Regarding Bill 201.
civic engagement
Bill 201 and Issue-based Advocacy
Jul
27
2016
Ontario Budget 2015 - Have Your Say
Jan
9
2015
The budget process is underway across Ontario. Since January, delegations presented before the Minister of Finance and before the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs. The Government has set up an online consultation tool to gather even more input on how to deliver on the announced priorities. You can have your say through written submission, by phone, by fax, on the online forum and through social media. We have published some useful documents to help you prepare, and we are sharing submissions other organizations have made. Be informed and be involved!
