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MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT TO HOLD MINISTERS MORE ACCOUNTABLE, MAKE GOVERNMENT WORK FOR PEOPLE

TORONTO - In keeping with the McGuinty government's commitment to deliver positive change, Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Democratic Renewal Michael Bryant today introduced legislation to strengthen accountability by requiring Cabinet ministers to attend Question Period at least two-thirds of the time.

"We are continuing to deliver positive change, and take the government in a new and better direction," said Bryant. "As one of our first steps to renew democracy in this province, we are putting our own House in order by setting the standard for accountability in Question Period."

The Executive Council Amendment Act would require Cabinet ministers to attend two-thirds of Question Periods in the Legislature, or be fined $500 for each day they fall below the standard during the government's term in office.

"By attending Question Period at least two-thirds of the time, Cabinet ministers will be demonstrating their commitment to answer and be accountable to the Legislature and the people of Ontario," said Bryant.

The Democratic Renewal Secretariat, the first of its kind in Ontario, will be working toward meaningful improvements in our political system with consultations on possible innovations for voting, new spending limits for political parties and engaging youth in the democratic process.

"Through the Democratic Renewal Secretariat," said Bryant, "we will engage the people of Ontario to ensure that our democratic traditions meet the needs of today's society and that government works for the people it serves."

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