Premier Doug Ford’s┬аgovernment plans to send rebate cheques to Ontarians as part of its fall economic statement, CBC News has confirmed.
“The move will be a signature element of the government’s fall economic statement,” a government source said, which┬аwill be released on Oct. 30.
The cheques are expected to amount to at least $200 per person.
The move was first reported┬аby the Toronto Star and it comes as rumours of an early election continue to swirl. Ford has ruled out an election in 2024 тАФ┬аthough strategists have told CBC Radio’s Metro Morning it remains a possibility тАФ┬аbut has given a strong indication that his government will trigger an election before the fixed date of June┬а2026.┬а
All three opposition parties reacted to┬аnews of the planned┬аrebates┬аby criticizing the Ford government.
NDP Leader Marit Stiles posted on X, formerly Twitter, that if the government wanted to improve life for Ontarians it would focus on building homes, hiring doctors and fixing schools.
“Ontarians see right thorough these stunts,” Stiles said, before calling the government┬а“out of touch, out of gas, and clearly тАФ┬аout of ideas.”
Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie called the idea a “one-time gimmick” and said the premier has failed to cut taxes while in office.
Crombie vowed the Liberals will cut taxes for middle class families and hinted more details would be coming soon.
The legislature is set to resume soon, which will likely bring with it a slew of announcements from opposition parties.
Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner┬аpointed out on X that the cheques will also go to the extremely wealthy, including people like the former CEO of Loblaw.
“Imagine: Galen Weston getting a $200 cheque in the mail,” he said.
“Ontarians need a government that’s in their corner тАФ┬аnot one that’s trying to buy them out.”
