The Ford government's decision to review Ontario's agencies, including the Worker Safety and Insurance Board, has meant job cuts in Windsor.
"Ontario's agencies are central to our government's plan to protect Ontario, delivering vital services that millions of families, workers, and businesses rely on every day," said Treasury Board President Peter Bethanfalvy earlier this month. "By launching these reviews, our government is ensuring agencies have the strong financial footing needed to improve operations while respecting taxpayer money."
Windsor West MPP Lisa Gretzky issued a statement on Thursday saying that, as a result of the review, ten WSIB offices across the province will close, resulting in the loss of nearly 500 jobs.
In Windsor, 131 positions have been declared redundant.
"Windsor workers deserve better than Doug Ford's plan to close WSIB offices and cut 131 good jobs from our community," said Gretzky. "These experienced workers, who have spent years helping injured workers navigate a complex compensation system, and losing that local expertise will have real consequences, making it harder for injured workers to get the support they need."
Gretzky claims closing local offices and reducing experienced staff will result in longer wait times, delays in processing claims, and less support for workers already struggling to make ends meet.
"Doug Ford can't claim that he is creating good jobs in Windsor, as he did in a recent self-promotional text message campaign, while his government cuts 131 good local jobs," added Gretzky. "The WSIB and this government need to explain why Windsor is being singled out for these cuts and how closing offices will improve service for injured workers."
The government said it selected the agencies based on their reliance on government funding, financial performance, size and complexity, and workforce growth trends.
Other agencies under review include the Liquor Control Board of Ontario, Ontario Cannabis Retail Corporation, Legal Aid Ontario, and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission.
