For Immediate Release
April 18, 2005

Economic, Development and Trade Minister dodges question on DSR compensation

Queen’s Park – As Bill 164 (Smoke-Free Ontario Act) hearings are set to get underway, MPP Toby Barrett is interested in knowing what type of compensation the Liberal government is willing to provide to those in the hospitality industry who have sunk money into Designated Smoking Rooms.

“Can you give the hospitality industry an idea of how you are fighting on their behalf around the cabinet table, and how much in dollars you are requesting your government to provide in compensation for those who have installed the rooms and those who are going to be laid off?”

In his response, Minister of Economic Development and Trade Joe Cordiano dodged the issue of compensation. He disputed the estimates that 900 small businesses will close if Bill 164 proceeds without compromise – estimates provided by the Pub and Bar Coalition of Canada.

“The evidence is very clear that in fact, these businesses would increase their activity,” Cordiano said. “Businesses would see an increase in revenue as a result of the ban on smoking.”

When asked by MPP Barrett if he knows how much a designated smoking room costs, the Minister responded with: “So I think this is good policy. It’s good for Ontarians right across the province, and it will be good for small business as well.”

Following Question Period, Barrett said it’s shameful that the current Liberal government feels this way.

“It’s blatantly obvious that there has been no consultation with the hospitality industry on this piece of legislation. I hope they have their ears wide open during committee hearings because they have a lot to learn,” Barrett said.

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For more information please contact MPP Toby Barrett at: 519-428-0446, 905-765-8413 or 1-800-903-8629