The Common Sense Revolution (CSR) was a political slogan and platform used by Ontario Premier Mike Harris and the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario from 1995 to 2002. The platform focused on reducing taxes, balancing the budget, and reducing the size and role of government, with an emphasis on individual economic responsibility. The CSR was inspired by neoliberal policies and was characterized by a reduction in government spending, tax cuts, and welfare reforms. The CSR was implemented through various policies, including the reduction of personal income tax rates by 30%, balancing the provincial budget, and reducing the number of people on social assistance. The platform also included the amalgamation of municipalities, which led to the creation of the "megacity" of Toronto and other larger municipalities. The CSR had a significant impact on Ontario's economy and politics, with both positive and negative consequences. Supporters argue that it helped to stimulate economic growth and reduce the deficit, while critics argue that it led to a decline in public services, increased poverty and inequality, and a shift in wealth from urban to suburban areas. Overall, the Common Sense Revolution represented a significant shift in Ontario's political and economic landscape, with lasting impacts on the province's governance, economy, and society. Written by Meta AI
The 1997 Ontario teachers' strike was a strike action taken by teachers in Ontario, Canada, in response to the introduction of Bill 160, the Education Quality Improvement Act. Here are some key points about the strike and Bill 160:
- Bill 160 was introduced by the Ontario government in September 1997 and aimed to improve education quality and accountability.
- The bill proposed changes to teacher hiring and evaluation practices, increased school board autonomy, and allowed for non-certified instructors to teach certain subjects.
- Teachers' unions opposed the bill, citing concerns about teacher professionalism, accountability, and the potential for unqualified instructors to replace certified teachers.
- On October 27, 1997, Ontario teachers went on strike, with over 100,000 teachers participating.
- The strike lasted for one day, with teachers returning to work after the government agreed to consider their concerns and amend the bill.
- The government eventually withdrew some of the controversial clauses from the bill, including those related to non-certified instructors.
- The strike and Bill 160 were significant events in Ontario's education history, highlighting tensions between teachers, governments, and school boards over issues like teacher autonomy, accountability, and education quality.