NDP calls for Lisa MacLeod’s resignation

Andrea Horwath, Leader of the Official Opposition and Ontario NDP, issued the following statement in response to revelations that Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, tried to threaten a group of professionals into endorsing Doug Ford’s changes to autism services:

“As Ontario’s Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, Lisa MacLeod is supposed to be a voice for children and parents at the Cabinet table. Her job is to work with parent and advocate voices to deliver results for them. Instead, she’s threatened them.”

“Parents of children with autism and advocates have been clear – Doug Ford’s cuts to autism services will already hurt tens of thousands of kids and their families. With these threats hanging over advocates for children with autism, it is clear we’re seeing the Ford Conservatives engage in a dangerous and chilling politics of revenge and personal attacks. This is absolutely inexcusable.

In light of Lisa MacLeod’s actions, Ontarians cannot be expected to have confidence in her as a Minister. Lisa MacLeod must resign and if she fails to do so Doug Ford must insist on her resignation.”