CDAO fears cuts to infrastructure funding in upcoming budget

The Construction and Design Alliance of Ontario (CDAO) recently voiced concerns over comments from Minister of Finance Dwight Duncan stemming from questions regarding the Ontario Liberal government’s budget, set to be tabled on March 27, 2012.

Duncan had told reporters in Queen’s Park, “There will be significant reductions in infrastructure spending in the coming years, which will save us hundreds of millions in interest costs over time.”

The Liberal government is looking to eliminate Ontario’s $16-billion deficit by 2017-18.

Joe Accardi, CDAO chair, said his organization understands the government has huge fiscal challenges, but that the province’s debt burden should not interfere with its ability to “continue to deliver the services that Ontarians require – services that are supported by modern infrastructure.” 

The CDAO stated that modern and reliable infrastructure drives Ontario’s economy, contributes to Ontario’s wealth and productivity, and helps attract investment and create jobs, while shaping communities and improving standards of living.

The organization is urging the Government of Ontario to continue with its levels of infrastructure investment committed in the government’s 10-Year Infrastructure Plan tabled by Minister of Infrastructure Bob Chiarelli approximately nine months ago. The CDAO stated that the plan includes a commitment by the government to invest $35 billion in the first three years, including $12.8 billion in 2011-12.