NDP MPP Paul Miller today brought his Bill 6, An Act to Amend the Employment Standards Act (Wage Security) 2007, to the Committee on General Government to establish hearing dates for public deputations.

The committee has no other business before it, however, the Liberal majority decided to follow the lead of MPP Carole Mitchell and blocked the bill, denying Ontarians an opportunity to speak to the issue.

“This undemocratic act by the Liberal majority ensures that working women and men who are not even receiving a wage because they’ve lost their jobs, do not have the government’s protection in their fight for wages, severance and other monies owed when their employers close the doors,” Miller said.

“This is even more shocking and appalling when you consider that these MPPs, who will enjoy another salary increase tomorrow, will not support the workers of Ontario and will not even give them a chance to voice their opinion on this important piece of legislation. Liberals throughout Ontario should hang their heads in shame at this sorry performance by their MPPs,” added Miller.

Liberal MPPs Carol Mitchell, David Orazietti, Kuldip Kular and Jim Brownell all voted against having Miller’s bill proceed to public hearings. Liberal MPP Bill Mauro conveniently left just as the recorded vote was about to take place.