Toronto City Council decision demonstrates the need to hold Ford to account
TORONTO, Sept. 10, 2018 /CNW/ - Unifor congratulates voters and candidates following Justice Belobaba's landmark ruling, which found that the Ford Government's Bill 5 violated the Charter-protected rights of voters in affected municipal elections.
"This is not only a loss for Ford, this is a warning to all of us in Ontario- our provincial government has shown a complete disregard for the rights of voters in this province," said Naureen Rizvi, Unifor Ontario Regional Director. "The absolute absence of consultation and complete disregard for democracy was recognized in today's decision. Thankfully, the October 22 elections should now continue without further interference."
This morning's decision ruled that the actions of the provincial government, "substantially interfered with the municipal voter's freedom of expression … and in particular her right to cast a vote that can result in effective representation."
This is one of many charter challenges currently facing the provincial government. Challenges to the rollback of comprehensive sex education and the introduction of back-to-work legislation at York University have yet to be ruled on.
"I hope Ford pays attention to this ruling, and doesn't waste more resources appealing this clear and damning decision," said Jerry Dias, Unifor National President. "We have major issues facing us in Ontario, from a growing trade war to growing inequality. This government needs an attitude shift to start working with the people, instead of against us."
Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, representing 315,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.
SOURCE Unifor
Please contact Sarah McCue, Unifor National Communications Representative at [email protected] or 416-458-3307 (cell)
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