Toronto: Ontario ministries, provincial agencies and the two hydro entities have been prohibited from paying to attend or sponsor events where a politician is the main speaker.
The two hydro entities are Ontario Power Generation and the Independent Electricity System Operator.
The new amendments to the Financial Administration Act support the government commitment to restore accountability and trust.
“Since day one, we’ve been clear about our fiscal priorities, and these changes are about emphasizing responsible, strategic fiscal planning that respects the hard-earned taxpayer dollars entrusted to the Ontario government,” said Peter Bethlenfalvy, President of the Treasury Board. “As stewards of public finances, we must put structures in place that direct spending towards what matters most. These changes are an important step in strengthening accountability for how public money is used, and will help restore trust in the province’s finances.”
This provision was introduced as part of the 2019 Budget Bill, and comes into force on July 1, 2019.
The amendments apply to events where the main speaker is a:
- Federal or provincial minister of the Crown, or territorial minister
- Member of the Senate of Canada, the House of Commons or the legislative assembly of a province or territory
- Leader of a federal, provincial or territorial political party
- Member of a municipal council in Canada (including mayors)
Individuals are still able to attend these events, as long as their tickets were purchased with their own funds, they are invited as a guest, or if the event is free, contingent upon any political activity restrictions.
Quick Facts:
- Some 60 per cent of the government’s provincial agencies are administratively supported by ministries and are bound by expenditure directions applicable to ministries.
- The board-governed agencies and two hydro entities have broader authority to make their own operational decisions and require direction to take specific actions.