For
Immediate Release
May 5, 2005
PC amendments on Bill 164 struck down by opposition
Queen’s Park –
Clause-by-clause reading of Bill 164 – The Smoke-Free Ontario Act,
proved to be frustrating for local MPP Toby Barrett today.
Barrett attended clause-by-clause
armed with a dozen motions set out by the PC caucus that called for amendments
to the legislation. However, by the end of the day the Liberals and lone
NDP member had struck down all 12 motions.
“It was a very disheartening
day for me and for many of the folks who attended Bill 164 hearings in
Toronto, Oshawa and Tillsonburg,” Barrett said. “It’s
obvious that the opposition failed to listen to anyone who took issue
with Bill 164.”
Some of the motions Barrett
made today called for compensation for tobacco farmers, charities affected
by bingo hall closures, convenience stores, tobacconists, the hospitality
industry and for police forces to enable them to provide increased security
to convenience stores selling tobacco.
Additionally, Barrett presented
amendments asking that smoking be allowed in Royal Canadian Legions, Army,
Navy, Air Force establishments as well as private clubs. Also struck down
were amendments asking that the hospitality industry maintain existing
designated smoking rooms or grandfather the date to 2010.
“Unfortunately, the Liberals
presented and passed an amendment asking that the retail display of tobacco
products be prohibited,” Barrett said. “They obviously have
not listened to those who work in corner stores who are fearful that this
move will lead to increased crime including armed robbery.”
MPP Barrett feels that the
opposition had their minds made up on this legislation long ago. Last
week, on the last day of Bill 164 hearings, Barrett asked that the Finance
Committee consider holding additional days of hearings – that motion
was lost as well. Yesterday, Barrett presented petitions in the Ontario
Legislature a number of petitions signed by those who were disappointed
by the fact that they could not appear before the committee.
Of the 225 people who requested
to make presentations, only 88 were chosen.
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For more information please
contact MPP Toby Barrett at: 519-428-0446, 905-765-8413 or 1-800-903-8629
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