NDP Leader Howard Hampton says Dalton McGuinty’s reckless and irresponsible economic policies are driving Ontarians out of work and turning Ontario into a “have-not” province.

“Hundreds of jobs are disappearing on a daily basis as Ontario spirals toward ‘have-not’ status. This is reckless and irresponsible leadership and it’s driving the province’s economy into the tank,” said Hampton.

Today, the TD Bank Financial Group released a special report warning that Ontario is poised to become a “have-not” province in two years. The report comes in the wake of more job loss announcements across the province.

Yesterday, General Motors announced 900 jobs would disappear in Oshawa. Today, Campbell’s Soup revealed it is cutting 500 jobs in Listowel.

“Ontario used to be the economic engine of Canada, but Dalton McGuinty has allowed it to stall,” said Hampton.

Hampton noted that provinces such as Manitoba and Quebec are in a much better position to weather the economic slowdown because they have adopted measures the NDP has proposed, including: a refundable manufacturing investment tax credit; a strong “Buy Local” policy and an industrial hydro rate.

“Dalton McGuinty will be known as the Premier who drove Ontario into have-not status and it’s Ontario workers who are paying the price,” said Hampton.