Local MPP Michael Mantha's decrying the Ontario PC government's pre-election budget as a "disappointment" that "misses the mark" - but one that isn't unexpected.
While the document unveiled by Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy yesterday forecasts higher deficits than during the pandemic, as spending's set to increase, Mantha says the budget's numbers tell him a different story.
The Algoma-Manitoulin New Democrat emphasizes the North needs more doctors, nurses, and personal support workers - and "better investment" into infrastructure - accusing the PCs of disregarding those needs in favour of supporting its friends.
While the budget was unlikely to pass before the writ drops for the June 2nd election, the PCs have decided to suspend the Legislature until well after the election, a move Mantha decries for taking away the opportunity to scrutinize the document.
Mantha calls it "smoke and mirrors", further noting the PC government amended its own law that required the budget be tabled by the end of March, to allow for it to be presented this late.
As the election campaign is expected to begin next week, Mantha says this is now a battle of campaign platforms, touting the NDP's, which was released on Monday, including expanded dental coverage and pharmacare, and support for mental health.