May 9, 2011
For immediate release
The Death of Bill 183 & Accountability
The public display of flagrant
neglect for transparency in Ontario’s public bodies, as demonstrated by
the government’s failure to pass the Bill which would extend the
Ombudsman’s oversight, is devastating. That the Liberals would
suggest there is ‘enough ‘ oversight
of our school boards, children’s aid societies, long-term care
facilities, etc is outrageous. MPP Rosario Marchese,
who introduced the bill, referred to the pain endured by those most vulnerable
and stated, “the
government might claim they have oversight in one form or another, but these
people know there is no oversight.”
Our government has exhibited a
blatant disregard for Ontario taxpayers and what they are enduring.
Corina Morrison, advocate for children and founder of
the London Antibullying Coalition, said, “I
am disgusted. My own MPP (Liberal Khalil Ramal) voted against this oversight but who will ensure the
safety of children?” The Liberals suggest trustees are accountable,
but cases across the province belie this assertion. No one is accountable.
Ontario remains one of the few
provinces in Canada where school boards are not part of the Ombudsman's
jurisdiction despite current Ombudsman, Andre Morin’s, pleas. The
vulnerable, in this province, remain vulnerable. Students remain voiceless and
parents powerless when they believe their children are unsafe at school. Unless
the school board agrees, there is nowhere for a parent to go in Ontario, but to
a lawyer. Sadly, the failure of Bill of 183 ensures a litigious society, at the
taxpayer’s expense.
We extend our thanks to those 11 courageous and principled MPPs in the NDP and
Conservative caucus who stood for transparency and accountability in the House
on May 5. To those who stood in opposition, we trust the laments of the people
in the public gallery ring loudly in your ears.
“Shame!… wait until October.”
Please contact your MPP if you share our concerns.
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For further information please
contact:
Corina Morrison
London
Anti-Bullying Coalition