There has been mixed reaction to the Ford government’s mini-budget that was unveiled on Thursday. While many welcomed the fall economic statement’s pledges for long-term care and infrastructure, others expressed disappointment in the lack of new money for education or to help businesses devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The mini budget invests big into health care and highways, but makes no specific mention of education.
The Elementary Teachers Federation (ETFO) said education spending is actually down $500 million in this plan compared to figures contained in the province’s budget in March.
ETFO president Karen Brown told CityNews it’s disappointing given the pandemic is still being felt in schools.
“It’s an absolute disappointment and it’s an absolute shame and what is shows here is this government’s lack of concern, lack of investment in quality public education,” Brown said.
Brown said the province should be investing in smaller class sizes, more special education teachers, and counsellors to help students adapt to learning during the pandemic.