January 19th, 2021

MPP Suze Morrison demands a halt to the demolition of the historic Foundry buildings, more transparency

TORONTO — NDP MPP Suze Morrison is demanding that Doug Ford immediately halt the demolition of the historic Dominion Foundry buildings, and make detailed plans for the land transparent.

“It is appalling that Doug Ford is rushing forward with the demolition of the Dominion Foundry heritage buildings despite vocal opposition from the community. Ford needs to respond to the community’s calls for greater transparency,” said Morrison.

The Ford government issued a Minister’s Zoning Order (MZO) for the Foundry site in October to overrule local planning and consultation, and started demolition without consulting or warning city officials or community members.

The NDP has been hotly critical of the Ford government’s use of MZOs to benefit its insiders and donor friends. In December, analysis by the NDP showed that the Ford government has signed a whopping 38 MZOs, and at least 19 of those financially benefit insiders and donors to Ford or his PC Party.

“We have no information about any proposed development application on the site, no legal commitment to protect any heritage assets, and no documentation committing to use this land for affordable housing,” said Morrison.

“Community members are rightfully asking what Ford’s been cooking up behind closed doors. Something stinks here, and sunlight is the best disinfectant.”