Canadians voted overwhelmingly for change in Monday’s federal election. The Liberal Platform included many initiatives that could have a positive impact on public health – a commitment to plain packaging for cigarettes, reducing sodium, reinstating the long form census and various promises that would affect the social determinants of health (e.g. increased funding for affordable housing, day care, income supports, education).
If you haven’t had a chance to review the detailed platform, outlined below is an overview of those areas that relate to public health and other aspects that effect health.
Once the new Liberal government is sworn in November 4th, has tabled its first Speech from the Throne and budget, we’ll have a better sense of which aspects of its ambitious platform will be priorities.
We’ll continue to work with our national colleagues at CPHA and other non-profit groups to advocate for those areas of concern to members and keep you apprised of relevant developments.
Pegeen Walsh, Executive Director
Ontario Public Health Association