Explore every episode of the podcast #onpoli, a TVO podcast

Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath are joined by Jessica Smith Cross, editor in chief of the Trillium and Charlie Pinkerton, reporter at the Trillium, to discuss the latest update in the Greenbelt scandal.

Premier Doug Ford has received plenty of endorsements this election campaign, and mayors are now entering the game. The team discuss the new trend and why local politicians are weighing in.

Ontario Progressive Conservative candidates have been told not to participate in local debates and to instead focus on door knocking. What effect does this have on our democracy?

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/politics-doesnt-have-to-be-so-impolite-just-ask-my-lunch-dates

JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-cancelling-starlink-is-easy-trump-proofing-ontarios-electricity-will-be-hard

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The Trump tariffs may be on pause, but they’ve taken over the narrative of this Ontario election campaign. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss how this looming threat is changing the race and heating up rhetoric between party leaders.

The Liberals are determined to keep the focus on Doug Ford’s health care record with a bright-red campaign bus.

And Steve and John Michael discuss the Conservatives's labour union endorsements, including fire fighters, a public sector union, that has benefitted under Ford.

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The election campaign is on for the Province of Ontario. Voters will head to the polls on February 27. Doug Ford, Marit Stiles, Bonnie Crombie, and Mike Schreiner will now vie for leadership as Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath expand their coverage during the writ period.

The Financial Accountability Office probed Doug Ford's plan to expand alcohol access early, and taxpayers could be picking up a $1.4 billion tab.

Ontario New Democratic Party leader Marit Stiles says, if elected, she will eliminate tolls on Highway 407 for everyone, but is that a good plan? Steve and John Michael dive into the costs.

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/saying-goodbye-to-the-loveliest-person-ive-ever-met-in-ontario-politics

JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-this-provincial-election-isnt-just-about-trump-its-also-about-ottawa

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As early as next week, Premier Doug Ford could call an election in Ontario. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath go over what comes next.

The Rural Ontario Municipal Association have just wrapped up their annual meeting. Steve and John Michael discuss how Premier Doug Ford dropped an election bombshell on the event and how the opposition reacted.

Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States and is now threatening punishing tariffs as soon as Feb. 1. What happens next and will Canada be able to escape this economic threat?

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-justin-trudeau-joe-biden-and-a-growing-club-leaders-who-dont-know-when-to-leave

JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-why-amo-is-getting-into-election-advertising

Nerds on Politics "Another election?": https://youtu.be/BbEKb_jCBwU?si=EvZDFRxIYsMkgaui

Nerds on Politics "Why you never drop a writ": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdyQJtAzbjI

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Premier Doug Ford says he needs a fresh mandate to combat Donald Trump's tariffs, but opposition MPPs believe he has all the tools he needs already. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss why the premier may be pushing for an early election.

The province moved some ServiceOntario locations to Staples Canada, which they said would save taxpayers money. The Financial Accountability Office of Ontario says otherwise.

What will you do with the $200 cheque coming your way from the provincial government? One website is pitching Ontarians on donating the money to charitable organizations.

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-how-doug-ford-became-an-unlikely-figure-of-national-unity

JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-why-ontario-is-betting-big-on-nuclear-power

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Earlier this week, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced he would resign. The move has many speculating whether Ontario Premier Doug Ford will still call an early election. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss what happens next and why Donald Trump is calling for the United States to annex Canada.

There's little financial security in becoming a Member of Provincial Parliament as former Scarborough Southwest MPP Lorenzo Berardinetti has experienced. Steve and John Michael discuss his story and the trouble with the housing crisis in Ontario.

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act set January 1 2025 as a deadline for making the province accessible. Disability advocates say the there's still a long way to go. Steve and John Michael discuss what more needs to be done.

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-doug-fords-most-difficult-decision-yet-just-got-a-whole-lot-more-complicated

MM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-get-ready-for-ontario-to-become-an-election-battleground

Nerds on Politics: How do parties pick their leaders: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZmQDmiaAm0

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Doug Ford is threatening to turn off the province's energy exports to the United States, as a measure to combat proposed tariffs from president-elect Donald Trump. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss what seems like an inevitable tit-for-tat tariff war.

The Ford government has put forward its proposed legislation on how to end homeless encampments across the province.

And Steve and JMM take a look at some end of session bills and why they might be telling on the timing of a spring election.

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/david-frum-on-canadian-history-and-the-battlefield-of-ideas

JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-new-legislation-shows-that-ontario-is-still-digesting-the-lessons-of-the-pandemic

Ontario Road Map: https://www.publications.gov.on.ca/109168_U

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Every year, the Auditor General of Ontario releases an annual report detailing how money was spent in the Province of Ontario. This year's report has called some of the province's dealings "not fair, transparent, or accountable." Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath break down the findings.

Phil Verster, the embattled CEO of Metrolinx, has resigned. With the Eglinton LRT still unopened, we look back on his tenure in the role and what still needs to get done.

Ontario is spending millions on primetime ads on Fox News in hopes of avoiding tariffs. Will this gambit work or are we in for some inevitable pain?

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/my-final-conversation-with-one-of-the-really-good-guys-of-politics-0

JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/can-ontario-get-nuclear-power-plants-built-in-new-places-were-about-to-find-out

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Donald Trump's trade threats have caused mass economic panic. Doug Ford and Justin Trudeau have threatened retaliatory tactics. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss what happens next and if this is just the president-elect's bluster.

Ontario's post-secondary sector is facing a financial crisis with Sheridan College unveiling cuts to programming and staff lay offs. So, why is the provincial government ignoring the blue-ribbon panel that offered concrete solutions?

The Ontario New Democratic Party and Marit Stiles have called on the integrity commissioner to investigate the province's fundraising targets. The Ontario Liberals and Bonnie Crombie have unveiled documents showing the desperate state of the family doctor crisis.

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/admiration-for-trump-wont-win-ontario-politicians-any-brownie-points

JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-fords-plan-a-for-the-next-trump-article-has-already-failed

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The Ontario New Democratic party are pitching a new deal for municipalities that include re-uploading big costs to the province. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss the plan and react to Marit Stiles's appointment of former Toronto Mayor David Miller to a special position.

Mississauga mayor Carolyn Parrish has found herself in hot water over a cancelled vigil to former Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and comparing him to Nelson Mandela. So, why was Doug Ford's reaction so tame?

Ontario has a found another potential site for long term storage for nuclear waste. Steve and JMM discuss why this facility will play a large role in the development of a clean energy future for the province.

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/hockey-hall-of-famer-dick-duff-is-still-telling-stories-at-age-88

JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-cities-need-a-new-deal-what-should-they-have-to-give-up-to-get-one

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Ontario Liberal leader Bonnie Crombie has made her first major election campaign promise: a tax cut for the middle class. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss how the Liberals are trying to outflank the Tories on the cost of living crisis.

We now know the cost of the province's plan to remove bike lanes from Toronto's streets: $48 million. Can the city stop the removal? 

Receiving presumptive care has gotten a little easier for wildland firefighters; however, union leaders argue the changes don't go far enough. 

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/toronto-honours-former-ontario-cabinet-minister-david-caplan

JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-how-many-ways-can-ontario-fail-to-tackle-the-housing-crisis

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Donald Trump has been elected the 47th president of the United States. What are the implications for Ontario's economy? Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss what sectors will be impacted the most.

The Ontario Liberal Party has a new line of attack on the family doctor shortage in the province.

Ontario integrity commissioner is retiring early, so what happens to the office's investigations?

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/this-remembrance-day-richard-rohmer-will-be-returning-to-queens-park

John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-legalize-housing-is-a-taller-order-than-queens-park-realizes

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Queen's Park is back and still talking about bike lanes. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss the government's first big piece legislation and why it's so laser focused on bikes.

Dr. Jane Philpott is taking charge of a provincial team that's looking to connect all Ontarians with a primary healthcare provider. It's an odd job for the former Liberal health minister although well within her wheelhouse, but will Doug Ford listen to her recommendations?

Marit Stiles joins the podcast to talk about the NDP's plans for upcoming session at QP, the fact that 3 of her MPPs have left for Federal politics, and why she's the alternative Ontarians need right now. 

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/celebrating-a-man-who-knows-all-there-is-to-know-about-ontario-political-history

JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-ontario-could-have-a-new-option-for-turning-offices-into-homes-if-the-government-takes

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Ontario Green Party leader Mike Schreiner joins the podcast to talk about his hopes for the party, the new session at Queen's Park, and much more.

Want bike lanes in your city? Well, you'll have to run it by Queen's Park as the provincial government wants a say on where bike lanes go.

Ontario Liberals are saying the Therme Spa deal is Doug Ford's 407. The NDP are calling for an investigation into it the deal. Meanwhile, Doug Ford will be sending you $200 in the mail.

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/remembering-jim-peterson

John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-governments-add-red-tape-to-stuff-they-want-to-suffocate-housing-and-bike-lanes

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The province is undertaking an audit of children's aid societies in Ontario. This comes after Premier Doug Ford's criticized cost overruns and manager bonuses. Unions representing the organizations say the criticism is a smokescreen for decades of underfunding that have worsened conditions. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss the status of the system and what can be done to prevent tragedies.

The provincial government has released the details of its lease to Therme. A 95-year lease will provide the province with $2 billion in revenue, which, if you do the math, isn't that much money per year. Steve and JMM discuss the fallout.

Geoffrey Hinton, the so-called father of artificial intelligence, has words for Doug Ford over the closure of the Ontario Science Centre. The new Nobel laureate says people shouldn't elect someone who is willing to close an institution that embraced curiosity.

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/is-this-marit-stiless-moment

John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-toronto-gets-a-raw-deal-from-the-province-that-doesnt-mean-it-can-ignore-the-basics

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Bhutila Karpoche is the third NDP MPP to seek a federal nomination. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath talk about why now might be the time to make the leap to Ottawa.

Another transit headache for the City of Toronto as Mosaic, the builders behind the Finch LRT, sue the province over delays in opening the line.

Should the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation be a provincial holiday in Ontario? Sol Mamakwa thinks it should be; the government isn't so sure.

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/honouring-americas-first-centenarian-president

John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-are-the-federal-liberals-facing-an-extinction-event

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Ontario Liberal leader Bonnie Crombie joins Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath to discuss her plans ahead of a potential spring election, the OLP's new slogan, and how she tries to get under Doug Ford's skin.

Premier Ford's comments telling homeless people to get off their butts and get jobs has him taking heat, and leaves many wondering if he's unaware of the pervasiveness of this issue.

Doug Ford wants to build a highway underneath the 401. Will a feasibility study build his case or show that this is simple a pipe dream?

John Michael's column: Coming Soon

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/what-can-we-learn-from-the-ontario-liberals-new-slogan

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The Ontario PC Party has won the riding of Bay of Quinte, replacing former education minister Todd Smith. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath dig into how this may affect a possible spring election.

The Government of Ontario has released its public accounts, which show that revenues are up and the deficit is down, but the debt just got bigger.

And the Financial Accountability Office of Ontario will launch an investigation into the early expansion of alcohol sales. The report, set to be released in early 2025, could be a bombshell for an early election.

Steve's column: (coming soon)

John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/do-the-costs-of-wind-power-outweigh-its-benefits-for-ontario

Caretaker Convention explainer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gkOtfh0-hQ

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The Government of Ontario is spending millions on upgrading the water infrastructure in Prince Edward County — ahead of a by-election next week. Coincidence? Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss.

Doug Ford believes Jagmeet Singh won't trigger an early election at the federal level due to his pension. The NDP leader fires back telling the Premier to stop focusing on alcohol in corner stores.

Food bank usage has spiked in Ontario with over a million people visiting one in the last year. It's a grim milestone and one group is calling for change.

Steve's column:

John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-is-there-really-such-a-thing-as-good-economic-news-during-a-housing-crisis

The Thread's episode on food insecurity: https://youtu.be/uTGKHJnBF3M?si=0Eq_pZd4UCYc_6eC

TVO Today Live in Mississauga: https://www.tvo.org/tvo-today-live#upcomingevents

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A new ban on smartphones in Ontario's secondary schools has come into effect. How will students react to the new policy? Or will the province reverse course like the Toronto District School Board?

Alcohol sales have expanded in Ontario to convenience stores and gas stations while supervised consumption sites have been shuttered. Steve and John Michael discuss the two decisions and their cognitive dissonance.

They also discuss the by-election for the Bay of Quinte following the resignation of MPP Todd Smith. Smith is the latest Tory MPP to leave the party for the private sector, so how will this by-election affect a potential election in spring?

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/checking-in-with-ottawas-former-mayor

John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/on-energy-the-government-has-some-difficult-choices-to-make

You can also see the podcast on the TVO Today YouTube channel and every Friday night at 8 and 11 pm ET as the first half of The Agenda.

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Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath return to the #onpoli podcast for a midsummer check-in from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario conference.

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/heres-how-to-beat-doug-ford-in-the-next-election

JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/ottawa-is-in-rough-shape-what-will-the-province-do-about-it

Councillor Nagy question at the AMO – The Women of Ontario Say No/instagram.com

Mayor Meed Ward question at the AMO – marianne.meedward/instagram.com

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LCBO workers are in legal strike position, and they've set a deadline of July 5 to get a deal made. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss how this mixes with recent policy decisions surrounding beer, wine, and mixed drinks in corner stores.

A legal challenge surrounding the redevelopment of Ontario Place has been dismissed by the Superior Court of Justice. Do advocates have any other ways to slow down the provincial government's desire for a waterfront spa or has this paved the way for builders?

Talk of an early election has made Ontario's political parties spring into action with the Ontario Liberals calling for fast local contests and NDP rallying support. Steve and John Michael discuss what's been happening.

Ontario Heritage Trust Plaque Guide: https://www.heritagetrust.on.ca/online-plaque-guide

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/this-upcoming-toronto-byelection-could-be-momentous

JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/is-canada-actually-facing-a-productivity-emergency

You can also see the podcast on the TVO Today YouTube channel and every Friday night at 8 and 11 pm ET as the first half of The Agenda.

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Earlier this week, a second unanimous consent vote to reverse a ban on wearing keffiyehs at Queen's Park failed to pass. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath follow up on the ban at Queen's Park and ramifications of it.

The Province of Ontario is investing billions into electric vehicle plants from car manufacturing giant Honda. The new plants announced this week are part of a larger plan to make the province into an EV powerhouse, but there have been a few stumbles along the way.

The Ontario Basic Income pilot was abruptly cancelled in 2019 when Doug Ford and the Progressive Conservative Party formed government. Many years later, a class action lawsuit certified by the Ontario Superior Court has the government paying for legal fees and the plaintiffs seeking millions more in damages. Steve and John Michael discuss what the program did and what the cancellation meant to participants.

UDPATE: On Thursday after this week's episode finished recording, Independent MPP Sarah Jama was asked by Speaker Ted Arnott to remove her keffiyeh while in the chamber at Queen's Park, and when she refused she was asked to leave the chamber, which she declined to do. That came after the events on Tuesday that we discuss in this week's episode. We'll have an update on all of this in next week's episode.

John Michael’s column: Former basic-income recipients are taking Ontario to court. Do they have a shot? | TVO Today 

You can also see the podcast on the TVO Today YouTube channel and every Friday night at 8 and 11 pm ET as the first half of The Agenda

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The federal government has tabled its budget, which includes money for municipalities on housing and a tax on the rich. Details have been released piecemeal over the last several weeks, but now Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath will finally be able to digest the whole thing.
 
 Highway 413 has cleared a major hurdle with the federal government removing the need for an environmental assessment. So, will shovels finally get into the ground for this new project? Not so fast, because there are several other issues that could get in the way.
 
 Several MPPs at Queen's Park were quietly removed from their committee assignments last week. Steve and John Michael discuss these unusual removals and what they might mean.
 
 Steve's column:
 
 John Michael's column:
 
 You can also see the podcast on the TVO Today YouTube channel and every Friday night at 8 and 11 pm ET as the first half of The Agenda.

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Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs Paul Calandra unveiled The Cutting Red Tape to Build More Homes Act, a new piece of housing legislation designed to get more housing built. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath break down the omnibus bill and look at the housing policy blitz we've seen from both the federal and provincial government.

The Office of the Premier has 48 staff members on the Sunshine List, which makes it one of the most expensive incarnations of this office ever. How does this expense square with Doug Ford's brand of fiscal responsibility?

The Ontario New Democrat Party recently hit a record for donations, leader Marit Stiles is travelling the province, and the party has been putting forward strong legislation. So, why isn't Doug Ford taking notice? Steve and John Michael discuss the premier's choice of opponents.

Steve’s column: https://www.tvo.org/article/do-doug-ford-and-pierre-poilievre-get-along

John Michael’s column: https://www.tvo.org/article/the-ford-government-needs-to-get-real-about-its-own-housing-statistics

You can also see the podcast on the TVO Today YouTube channel and every Friday night at 8 and 11 pm ET as the first half of The Agenda.

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The Canadian government has announced a new infrastructure fund that would provide billions to provinces and territories to build up wastewater treatment capacity and housing. The money comes with strings that include a pledge to build ,missing middle, housing, which Premier Doug Ford has opposed. The premier says he would rather let municipalities decide what and where to build. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath break down the premier's hesitancy to change course.

Ontario has decided where its allotment of international students will go, and public universities and colleges are the big winners. Private career colleges will see a drop in enrolment and could be the first casualties from this new federal cap.

There's a deadline to call a by-election and the time has come for Lambton Kent Middlesex, the former riding of MPP Monte McNaughton. Steve and John Michael discuss who will be running.

You can also see the podcast on the TVO Today YouTube channel and every Friday night at 8 and 11 pm ET as the first half of The Agenda.

Steve’s column: https://www.tvo.org/article/a-conversation-in-hamiltons-tent-city

John Michael’s column: https://www.tvo.org/article/renters-in-canada-need-all-the-help-they-can-get-will-a-bill-of-rights-make-any-difference

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Minister of Finance Peter Bethlenfalvy has unveiled Ontario's budget and it's a big one. The province is spending an unprecedented amount on building infrastructure projects but is expected to see large deficits over the next two years. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath dig into the details.

The Ontario Liberal Party has announced their candidate for the Milton byelection, and it's not Bonnie Crombie. Galen Naidoo Harris, the son of former Milton MPP Indira Naidoo-Harris, will run. However, his candidacy leaves open the question of where the new Ontario Liberal leader will plant her flag.

And in Your Column, My Column, Steve and John Michael go over some specific parts of the budget that really grind their gears.

You can also see the podcast on the TVO Today YouTube channel and every Friday night at 8 and 11 pm ET as the first half of The Agenda.

Steve’s column: https://www.tvo.org/article/why-should-the-government-send-me-9-a-month-to-help-me-pay-my-hydro-bill

John Michael’s column: https://www.tvo.org/article/what-the-2024-budget-means-for-housing-affordability-in-ontario

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Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie has said that if she becomes premier, she will not impose carbon tax on residents. This, among many other announcements, has made this a big week for her. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss what's been announced so far.

In Your Column, My Column, Steve talks about Roy McMurtry who died on March 18. McMurtry was one of two Ontarians to hold the positions of both attorney general and chief justice of the province's highest court. He also championed human rights and legalized same-sex marriage in Ontario.

Then, we bring an end to the CPR West Toronto station story in our mailbag segment. Steve and John Michael remember that this story was never about the destination, it was about all the interesting train facts they learned along the way.

You can also see the podcast on the TVO Today YouTube channel and every Friday night at 8 and 11 pm ET as the first half of The Agenda.

Steve’s column on Roy McMurtry: https://www.tvo.org/article/remembering-roy-mcmurtry-one-of-ontarios-most-influential-attorneys-general

An interview with Roy McMurtry: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SrxkBkJuKI

Donate to TVO: http://tvo.org/give

Clip courtesy: Office of the Premier of Ontario/youtube.com

JMM’s column on Bonnie Crombie’s new housing policy: https://www.tvo.org/article/will-bonnie-crombies-new-housing-policy-light-a-fire-under-the-ford-government

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Premier Doug Ford has been seen in recent weeks handing out large cheques to cities who have hit their housing targets through the Building Faster Fund. Most recently, he praised Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens, whose record is worse than former Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss why the premier is willing to forgive when it comes to certain cities.

The Ontario Progressive Conservative Party has picked their nominee in the upcoming Milton byelection. Will Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie also run in that race? Meanwhile, Durham's new federal MP Jamil Jivani has stirred up the conflict between the provincial and federal conservative parties. It's all getting a bit messy.

There's a good chance this summer will be a lot like last summer. Wildfire smoke could blanket the province, so the climate is on our minds. Steve and John Michael highlight some upcoming changes to two environmental acts that could have implications for the future of the province.

John Michael’s column on Halton Region and CN Rail: https://www.tvo.org/article/how-halton-region-both-won-and-lost-in-its-fight-against-cn-rail-in-just-one-week

The Narwhal’s reporting on conservation authorities: https://thenarwhal.ca/ontario-conservation-authorities-changes/

How wetlands are becoming toxic time bombs: https://www.tvo.org/article/how-wetlands-are-becoming-pollution-time-bombs

Why Ontario shouldn’t pave paradise to put up a highway: https://www.tvo.org/article/why-ontario-shouldnt-pave-paradise-to-put-up-a-highway

You can also see the podcast on the TVO Today YouTube channel and every Friday night at 8 and 11 pm ET as the first half of The Agenda.

Donate to TVO: http://tvo.org/give

Clip courtesy: Office of the Premier of Ontario/youtube.com

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The official opposition is calling on the Ontario government to remove tolls for truckers on Highway 407. Their argument is moving truck traffic to the toll road would save truckers time and taxpayers money while removing the need to build highway 413. But will Doug Ford budge on his plans?

The Ontario English Catholic Teachers' Association is the last union to sign a tentative agreement with the province. If ratified, all the big teacher organizations will then have agreements for the next three years. We discuss the history of these conflicts throughout the years.

And Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss the legacy of former prime minister Brian Mulroney who died at 84.

You can also see the podcast on the TVO Today YouTube channel and every Friday night at 8 and 11 pm ET as the first half of The Agenda.

Steve’s column on Brian Mulroney’s unlikely friendships: https://www.tvo.org/article/what-brian-mulroneys-unlikely-friendships-say-about-his-political-legacy

Steve’s column on the titans of ‘80s politics: https://www.tvo.org/article/the-titans-of-80s-politics-are-gone-lets-hope-their-legacy-of-mutual-respect-endures

Donate to TVO: http://tvo.org/give

John Michael's column on sewers: https://www.tvo.org/article/want-to-boost-housing-affordability-then-start-thinking-about-sewers

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Ontario's provincial government is infusing $1.3 billion into the post-secondary education system, but is it too little and too late? Faced with funding pressures from the COVID-19 pandemic and new regulations around international students, Ontario's higher learning institutions were looking for closer to $2.5 billion and for tuition hikes. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss what happens next.

Doug Ford has tripled down on his hope to appoint ,like-minded judges, on Ontario courts by appointing former staffers onto the committees that choose judges. We discuss whether this is a new practice or something all political parties do.

Mike Schreiner's housing bill has been sent to committee or, as John Michael calls it, legislative purgatory. We discuss the possible reasons for the move and how the bill could potentially be brought into other housing policy.
A note to listeners, the podcast will be dropping on Fridays rather than Tuesdays. You can also see the podcast on the TVO Today YouTube channel and every Friday night at 8 and 11 pm ET as the first half of The Agenda.

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/half-a-century-ago-ontario-got-its-youngest-ever-cabinet-minister

John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/if-governments-are-serious-about-fighting-climate-change-they-should-tackle-transit-report

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Clip courtesy Legislative Assembly of Ontario

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MPPs have returned to Queen's Park after their winter hiatus to a jam-packed schedule with the Ontario PC Government introducing the "Get It Done Act." Steve and John Michael dig into what's in that bill.

We're also responding to your questions and comments from the last episode of the podcast. Email us at onpolitics@tvo.org if you have a question you'd like addressed on the show.

A note to listeners, audio episodes of the podcast will be dropping on Fridays rather than Tuesdays. #onpoli is very excited to be introducing a video component to our show, but you'll still get the same high-quality audio in your feed every week. You can also see the podcast on the TVO Today YouTube channel and every Friday night at 8 and 11 pm ET as the first half of The Agenda.

Donate to TVO: http://tvo.org/give

A Place to Stand (1967): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0F10Sc3Vcw

Ontario.ca's resource page about A Place To Stand: https://web.archive.org/web/20190622184444/https://www.ontario.ca/page/place-stand-ontario-song

Clip of Aislinn Clancy's entry to Queen's Park courtesy Legislative Assembly of Ontario

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Late last year, Energy Minister Todd Smith said he'd introduce legislation to reverse a decision made by the Ontario Energy Board. The decision would have put the cost of hooking up new homes to the gas grid onto developers, which, the minister said, would delay shovels getting into the ground. Steve and John Michael discuss the impact of this decision.

Online investigative magazine The Narwhal is reporting that the Government of Ontario is planning to expand its powers to expropriate land. Taking land is one way the government can use its powers to help infrastructure projects get done, but the normal process can take months and requires public consultations. Why is the government so keen to speed things up?

Premier Doug Ford said Ontario will soon see one of the biggest projects in the world coming to the province. It was a mysterious announcement that has Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath wondering what it could possibly be.

And a note to listeners, audio episodes of the podcast will be dropping on Fridays rather than Tuesdays starting February 16th. #onpoli is very excited to be introducing a video component to our show, but you'll still get the same high-quality audio in your feed every week. You can also see the podcast on the TVO Today YouTube channel and every Friday night at 8 and 11 pm ET as the first half of The Agenda.

Donate to TVO: http://tvo.org/give

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Supreme Court of Canada has dismissed a request that would allow for the release of the Government of Ontario's mandate letters. While the decision puts an end to one hot button issue, it may have spawned another surrounding transparency in the government's decision-making processes.
 
Olivia Chow's gambit to lower the tax hike for Torontonians seems to have paid off. The Federal government has announced $362.4 million dollars in funding for refugee supports without which, Chow said, the tax increase would have been higher. Her recent interactions with the Federal government have put many partnerships across levels of government into the spotlight. 
 
The Pickering Nuclear Generating Station is getting refurbished. The project is already slated to cost $2 billion for the initial phase, but it could cost billions more to complete. Why invest in nuclear? Why not invest in more solar like the rest of the world? Dr. Chris Keefer joins the podcast to discuss nuclear energy and why he thinks it's necessary to reach a clean energy future.
 
And a note to listeners, audio episodes of the podcast will be dropping on Fridays rather than Tuesdays starting February 16th. #onpoli is very excited to be introducing a video component to our show, but you'll still get the same high-quality audio in your feed every week.

John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/the-pickering-nuclear-refurbishment-is-the-path-of-least-resistance-for-clean-energy

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/this-former-cabinet-minister-has-seen-his-life-transformed

Donate to TVO: http://tvo.org/give

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Private emails sent between two aides have added a new chapter to the Greenbelt scandal that has plagued the Ontario PC Party. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss how this revelation might affect public confidence in government decisions.

A new cap on the number of international students could see Ontario's post-secondary schools facing dire financial straits. Schools are saying the decision was rushed, the Federal government says the two-year pause is necessary.

Parm Gill, MPP for Milton and Minister of Red Tape Reduction, has resigned from Queen's Park to run federally for Pierre Poilievre. His goal is to take down Justin Trudeau, but his move highlights a schism in Canada's conservative political parties.

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/rocco-rossi-isnt-retiring-hes-rewiring

John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/will-there-be-enough-evs-to-meet-canadas-target-or-do-we-need-a-plan-b

David Moscrop's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/the-greenbelt-scandal-takes-another-turn-and-trust-in-the-ford-government-takes-another-hit

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The Government of Ontario is set to expand the number of private health clinics allowed to perform certain types of surgeries and diagnostic procedures. Critics say the plan will further burden the healthcare system by pulling away hospital staff, while supporters say it's a necessary step to help struggling hospitals.

Mike Schreiner has called on the Attorney General to probe the recent deal allowing for ServiceOntario kiosks in Staples stores. Part of that announcement included the planned closure of a number of ServiceOntario locations, a detail that's caused some concern.

The Hazel McCallion Line is getting a new business case to lay out how it will connect Port Credit, Mississauga, and Brampton. It's one of several transit projects still being built in the province, but when will it open? That's the $4.6 billion dollar question.

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/at-95-ontario-political-legend-bob-nixon-still-has-stories-to-tell

JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/is-first-past-the-post-unconstitutional-an-ontario-court-says-no-but-the-fight-isnt-over

JMM's column on Staples: https://www.tvo.org/article/please-premier-ford-dont-ruin-serviceontario

Donate to TVO: http://tvo.org/give

Nerene Virgin on the TVO@50 Podcast: https://omny.fm/shows/tvoat50/todays-special

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It's a new year, but the same old priorities for the Government of Ontario: Housing, affordability, and healthcare. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss how they're going to, as Doug Ford says, ,Get it done?,

Toronto has released a first look at its budget. The city has a huge deficit to fill and a property tax hike seems to be the answer, but how have Torontonians responded to that? Not well.

Cyber-attacks seem to be growing and it feels like it's only a matter of time before the province gets attacked. The guys are joined by Donald Blair, an IT director, to discuss how to prevent a disaster.

Kat Eschner's piece on social-assistance rates: https://www.tvo.org/article/social-assistance-rates-in-ontario-should-set-off-alarm-bells-report

More from Kat: https://www.tvo.org/author/kat-eschner

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The Region of Peel will remain whole for the foreseeable future, bringing a close to a months-long ordeal for the workers in the region. Regional staff were working toward a January 2025 timeline to dissolve the region, but now the transition board assigned to oversee that will look to create efficiencies instead. So, why cancel the deal? Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss the details and the shrewd politics involved.

The sale of alcohol is expanding in the Province of Ontario to include corner stores, big box retailers, and gas stations by 2026. The province has already received a failing grade for its alcohol control measures from organizations like the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, so why not fail even harder? It's a deal four decades in the making, so why did it take this long and what's at stake now that it's almost here?

Steve and JMM answer your burning questions before the end of the year in our annual year-end mailbag. Got a question, send it on through to onpolitics@tvo.org for future episodes.

Donate to TVO: http://tvo.org/give

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Last week, newly minted Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie made her first appearances at Queen's Park. While she spoke about her priorities as leader, she also fired back against Doug Ford who had launched a series of attacks on her over luxury cars and a cottage in the Hamptons. The problem? She doesn't have either of those.

Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath then look into the auditor general of Ontario's latest report. The report revealed that the business case for moving the Ontario Science Centre might not be as airtight as the government said it was, and many more revelations.

And finally, Peel Region could be staying together after the Hazel McCallion Act nearly tore it apart. Steve and JMM discuss how the stunning numbers around tax increases were known for quite some time and why they're coming to light right now.

The Auditor General report: https://www.auditor.on.ca/en/content/annualreports/annualreports.html

Region of Peel panel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2d8Ry5jeh54

Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/bonnie-crombies-first-week-couldnt-have-gone-much-better

John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/doug-ford-has-no-excuse-for-sticker-shock-when-it-comes-to-dissolving-peel-region

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From mayor of Mississauga to new Ontario Liberal leader, Bonnie Crombie has seen a political rise over the last few years. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath dig into what's next for her and the challenges ahead.

Ontario's Green Party has a new MPP in Kitchener-Centre. Aislinn Clancy won her seat by a wide margin last week and doubled the size of her party's caucus. Could this be the start of a green wave? A mini wave?

And the province has unveiled a so-called business case for moving the Ontario Science Centre to the Toronto's waterfront. Critics were quick to note that the numbers just aren't adding up.

Ontario Science Centre promo clip courtesy the Ontario Science Centre.

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