Update from John Tory Leader's Dinner
Last night was a good night for the PC Party. Despite troubled economic times, approximately 450 people paid $500 to attend a fundraising dinner at Le Parc in Thornhill for the PC fund. Stephen Harper sent his greetings as did Thornhill MP Peter Kent. Peter Shurman, Frank Klees and Julia Munro did a great job hosting the event as representitives for York Region. John Tory delievered a terrific speech that focused on the economy and Dalton McGuinty's record. Some of the facts were unbelievable. Ontario second last in projected economic growth and now a have not province. Public servents making over $100,000 has increased 27% under the Ontario Liberal government. Labour costs have increased 57% under McGuinty. Spending has increased 40% under this provincial government. Corporate taxes in Ontario remain the second highest in the world. 8 million wasted on another study into tourism as opposed to an ad campaign alerting our American friends about the low dollar and potential bargains on this side of the border. Government administration costs currently sit at 1.2 billion with room for at least a 10% cut by reducing travel, using government meeting rooms instead of booking hotels and discretionary budgets out of control. No strategy for small businesses, job creation or foreign investment. Deficits despite record transfer payments from the federal government. Tory was on his game and we saw a likely preview of what our message will be in 2011. I see a lot of Liberals cheerleading the recession and trying to put the blame on Stephen Harper for the international economic crisis. They should think twice as Mr. McGuinty is equally vulnerable under that argument.
MPP representation was very strong last night at the York Region dinner. Frank Klees, Julia Munro, Peter Shurman, Tim Hudak, Randy Hillier, Elizabeth Witmer, Lisa MacLeod, John O'Toole, Joyce Savoline, Sylvia Jones, Ted Arnott and Christine Elliot were all in attendence. Former Premier Bill Davis was also on hand. I suspect there were others that I missed as well. There were no updates on any potential seat location for Mr. Tory.
Overall I think the provincial Conservative party is on the right track. Last night's fundraiser was very successful considering the economic situation right now. In February we are set to have a policy convention in Niagara Falls. The Ontario PC Party has launched a new version of their website that I believe is cutting edge. Finally it seems we are starting to gain some traction in the legislature through question period. The next election is three years away.
Given the gains that took place federally around the GTA and throughout Ontario; I think there is strong potential to get back into government in 2011. My hope is that John Tory can secure a seat as soon as possible. Congratulations to everyone responsible for organizing the event last night.
Thanks for reading...
Darryl
