Ontario’s 2025 Fall Economic Statement – titled A Plan to Protect Ontario – is drawing criticism from education and public sector unions who say it neglects core public services while focusing on large-scale capital spending.
The Ford government says its plan builds a stronger, more self-reliant economy by cutting red tape, supporting workers and investing in infrastructure, while keeping costs down for families. It includes an HST rebate for first-time homebuyers, extended home care funding, and new supports for industries impacted by U.S. tariffs.
But education and labour groups argue the statement overlooks urgent funding needs. The Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) says the province continues to rely on an outdated education funding formula, first introduced more than two decades ago. ETFO President David Mastin said the model has left schools under-resourced, especially in special education, mental health and class size supports.
The Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/SEFPO) also criticized the plan, calling it “financial planning for an imaginary Ontario.” Union president JP Hornick said the government’s approach prioritizes developers and private interests over everyday workers. Hornick argued the plan fails to create stable, well-paid jobs and doesn’t address projected increases in unemployment.
Both groups are calling on the province to reinvest in public education, health, and community services.
The 2025 statement forecasts Ontario’s deficit at $13.5 billion, with a return to surplus projected by 2027-28.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
