Ontario Premier Doug Ford faced criticism after he told a protester to ‘find a job’ during a heated legislative session as Bill 60, a controversial housing bill, passed in the legislature. The incident occurred on Monday, when Ford appeared exasperated after a protester taunted a guard who was attempting to remove the man from the premises. Ford’s comment, which drew immediate backlash, highlighted the deepening divide over the legislation’s impact on tenants and housing affordability.
The bill, intended to expedite housing development and allow for the eviction of tenants who are behind on their rent, has sparked widespread debate. Supporters argue that it is necessary to address the province’s housing crisis, while opponents warn that it could lead to increased homelessness and displacement of vulnerable residents. Ford’s response to the protester, which many view as dismissive of the concerns of marginalized communities, has further intensified the controversy surrounding the legislation.
Protesters gathered outside the Ontario legislature in the days leading up to the bill’s passage, demanding that it be withdrawn. Their demonstrations reflected growing frustration with the government’s approach to housing policy, which critics say prioritizes economic development over the well-being of residents. Ford’s words, though brief, have become a focal point of the ongoing debate, with some calling for his resignation over the incident while others defend his right to express frustration in the face of public dissent.
The passage of Bill 60 marks a significant shift in Ontario’s housing policy, with its provisions likely to affect thousands of residents. While the government maintains that the bill is essential for addressing the province’s housing shortage, opponents continue to raise concerns about its potential unintended consequences. The controversy surrounding Ford’s remarks underscores the broader tensions in the province’s political landscape, where economic priorities often clash with social welfare considerations.