Opposition parties are once again urging Ontario Premier Doug Ford to dismiss Labour Minister David Piccini due to his involvement in a controversial $2.5 billion job training fund. The Ontario NDP and Liberals expressed outrage on Wednesday over the lack of fairness, transparency, and accountability in how the provincial government distributed funds through the Skills Development Fund. The issue surrounding the fund has been a focal point in the Ontario Legislature for the third consecutive day.
During Question Period, Ontario Liberal MP John Fraser questioned Premier Ford about the mismanagement and favoritism in fund allocation, emphasizing the need to prioritize the well-being of the 700,000 job seekers in the province. In response, Ford defended his government’s accomplishments, citing the creation of a million jobs and substantial investment in Ontario.
The Skills Development Fund, designed to stimulate economic growth, offers financial support to organizations for projects addressing workforce hiring, training, and retention challenges. Ontario Auditor General Shelley Spence’s report highlighted Piccini’s office’s heavy involvement in selecting funding recipients, including granting funds to low-ranking applicants without proper documentation.
NDP Leader Marit Stiles criticized the preferential treatment some companies received under the fund, pointing out discrepancies in fund distribution where lower-scoring applicants were awarded funds over higher-scoring ones. Stiles advocated for impartial civil servants to oversee fund allocation decisions instead of politicians.
Former Liberal cabinet ministers emphasized the importance of maintaining distance between the minister and funding applicants to ensure transparency and integrity in the process. They stressed the need for clear guidelines and oversight to prevent political interference in project funding decisions.
Despite facing continued scrutiny, Labour Minister Piccini defended the fund’s impact, highlighting the positive outcomes for Ontarians who benefited from the program. He announced additional funding to support women in skilled trades. Premier Ford dismissed criticisms from opposition parties, emphasizing his government’s commitment to creating more investment opportunities and advancing their economic agenda.