During a raucous legislative session, Ontario Premier Doug Ford faced a disruptive protester during the passage of Bill 60, a housing legislation package that aims to accelerate housing development and expedite the eviction process for tenants in arrears. The bill, which cleared the legislature amid intense debate, has drawn significant criticism from advocacy groups and tenant unions, who argue it disproportionately targets vulnerable populations.
At the hearing, Ford appeared exasperated after a protester taunted a security guard attempting to remove the man. In response, he told the protester, ‘Go find a job, buddy,’ a comment that underscored the polarizing nature of the legislation. Critics have accused the government of exacerbating housing insecurity and undermining tenant protections, while supporters argue it is a necessary measure to address Ontario’s housing crisis.
The passage of Bill 6, which includes provisions for faster approvals of rental properties and streamlined eviction procedures, has raised concerns about its impact on long-term housing affordability and tenant rights. As the province wrestles with rising housing costs and a shortage of affordable units, the bill’s provisions have sparked a contentious debate over the balance between economic development and social welfare.