Snappy slogans can’t hide Ontario’s limping economy
Premier Doug Ford keeps telling us that Ontario’s economy is “the best it has ever been”, but the numbers tell a different story. Behind the glossy slogans lies an economy limp-ing along under weak growth, rising unemployment, and a mountain of debt.
Ontario now carries more subnational debt than any jurisdiction on Earth. Every resident shoulders about $60,408 in provincial debt. That isn’t a bragging point – it’s a warning sign.
Look at growth. In 2023, real GDP reached about $852 billion, or $71,659 per person, ranking Ontario just sixth among provinces. This year’s performance is even worse: only 0.8 per cent growth in the first quarter, with projections of 1.2 per cent for 2025. The national average? 1.6 per cent. Ontario hasn’t stumbled this badly since 2016. So much for “best ever.”
The labour market isn’t bailing us out either. The unemployment rate is stuck at 7.9 per cent, among the highest in Canada. More than 700,000 Ontarians are out of work.
For young people, the situation is bleaker still: 14.6 per cent youth unemployment, the highest in the country.
For too many, Ontario now means fewer jobs, higher costs, and dimmer prospects. Add to that a housing crisis where provincial targets are routinely missed, and affordability slips further out of reach.
This is not responsible stewardship. It is self-congratulation dressed up as leadership.
Ontarians don’t need more press conferences and puffed-up slogans. They need a credible plan to rein in debt, spark real economic growth, and tackle youth unemployment with urgency.
Members of the Legislature are not cheerleaders. Our job is to be honest with the people we serve. The truth is Ontario’s economy is underperforming.
Until this government swaps spin for substance, our province will remain stuck in neutral — and Ontarians will keep paying the price.
SAVED BY THE BELL 90s DANCE PARTY at St. Peter High School on Charlemagne Blvd. featuring DJ Mace, DJ Kam and DJ Bounce from 7 p.m. to midnight. Must be 19+. ID required at the door. This is a fundraising event hosted by the St. Peter High School Parents Council. For advance tickets visit 
CUMBERLAND FARMERS MARKET from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the R.J. Kennedy Arena in Cumberland Village with 85 local farmers and vendors ready to showcase their freshest produce, handmade goods, and unique finds.
90s HITS MUSICAL BINGO 7:30 p.m. at the Orléans Brewing Co. 4380 Innes Rd., next to McDonalds. Hosted by Shine.
OYSTER NIGHT every Wednesday from 6-9 pm at the Orléans Brewing Co. Two types of oysters served with lemon, Tobasco, horseradish, salt and mignonette. The Orléans Brewing Co. is located at 4380 Innes Rd., next to McDonalds.
ORLEANS FARMERS MARKET every Thursday from 11 am to 4 pm in the parking lot at the Ray Friel Recreation Centre on Tenth Line Road. Shop the freshest seasonal produce, meat and dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, crafts and more while getting to know the folks who grew and made it.
