The best way we can overcome the challenges of a global recession is by building a powerful economy here in Ontario.

Ontarians have been working hard to emerge from this recession, and the McGuinty government has been doing its part to create new jobs and strengthen our economy. Because a stronger economy means more support for the health care and schools that Ontario families rely on.

Our new, five–year Open Ontario plan is all about opening up our province to new economic opportunities that will result in new jobs and growth. Our plan will prepare Ontario to compete in the global economy that’s emerging from this recession

The good news is that our plan is already working. We’re seeing signs of steady growth. In May, Ontario employment increased by 17,700 net new jobs, rising for the fifth consecutive month. Since the economic recovery began, more than 142,000 net new jobs have been created in Ontario.

We are making progress.

Already we have introduced the Water Opportunities and Water Conservation Act to build on Ontario's expertise in clean water technology. The goal of the Act is to attract economic development and create jobs by exporting made-in-Ontario clean water technology to the world.

We are implementing the Green Energy Act to support clean technology and create jobs. This strategy has attracted the largest renewable energy investment in Canada and is expected to create up to 50,000 jobs.

We are moving forward with a tax reform package including tax cuts for families and businesses, and a single harmonized sales tax. The HST will help Ontario businesses to be more competitive so they can invest in new equipment, build new plants and create nearly 600,000 new jobs over 10 years.

We are also lowering the cost of generic drugs to make them more affordable for all Ontarians, and using those savings to invest in more access to prescription drugs and improving health care.

We are improving patient care by holding health care providers and executives accountable for delivering quality care in our hospitals.

And we are getting our children off to the best possible start by implementing full-day kindergarten for up to 35,000 four- and five-year-olds this September.

But there is still more to do.

And the McGuinty government continues to move forward with our plan to help families and businesses affected by the global economic crisis, making Ontario stronger and more competitive for a prosperous future

For more information on what your government is doing to build a stronger future for Ontario, contact my Constituency Office at 416-630-0080.