QUEEN’S PARK—Those perusing the announcements from the latest Ford Government budget will note that the swing bridge in Little Current made mention, although there were no specific funds or timelines associated with the reference.
To those accustomed to the fiscal responsibility and purported frugality of the premier’s Progressive Conservatives, it might come as some surprise that this budget will be historic in that it is the largest in the province’s history.
“In Budget 2024, the government expects to bring in $204.3 billion and spend $207.3 billion, meaning the government will spend more than any before it and will be responsible for creating the largest deficit ever outside of the COVID-19 emergency,” said Algoma-Manitoulin MPP Michael Mantha.
When it comes to the bridge, Mr. Mantha said he would be asking questions of the minister about the cost and timelines for the bridge. Information that has, up until now, not been forthcoming. “If I don’t get any answers I will be bringing it up in Question Period,” he said.
“People on Manitoulin deserve that bridge,” he continued, chiding the premier with his oft-vaunted claim that his government’s motto is ‘get ‘er done.’”
As to the timelines and numbers, Mr. Mantha said he could not understand the lack of information from the government. “What is so secretive? There has to be some cost assessment,” he said, noting that the lack of timelines is causing undue stress on those who depend on the bridge to be able to access medical and other services.
