NDP Leader Howard Hampton says the McGuinty Liberals are muzzling minorities by ramming through proposed law overhauling human rights system.

“The McGuinty Liberals are stripping marginalized people of their ability to fight for their human rights and force them to pay out-of-pocket to fight discrimination,” said Hampton. “They promised to consult, but instead they’ve cancelled public hearings and closed off debate.”

Dalton McGuinty’s Bill 107 will effectively privatize the Ontario Human Rights Commission - forcing Ontarians to pay out-of-pocket for lawyers, investigators and even to cover the costs of a hearing. The NDP Leader says the McGuinty Liberals have turned their back on their responsibility to ensure human rights and justice for all Ontarians. Hampton said the lack of consultation with the people who use the Human Rights Commission every day and the organizations they represent is inexcusable.

“Thousands of advocates are asking the McGuinty Liberals to stop plowing ahead with these reforms. The proposed legislation will take away the rights they now have entrenched in the Human Rights Code,” said Hampton.

“Can you tell them why you’re denying the people most affected by these reforms a voice in enforcement of Human Rights?” Hampton asked the Premier.