ONTARIO RESPONDS TO INTEGRITY COMMISSIONERS REPORT

McGuinty Government Takes Steps To Ensure Transparency At Tourism Agencies 

 

NEWS

 

The Ministry of Tourism is undertaking a governance review of its agencies to ensure effective decision-making and practices, following the release of the Ontario Integrity Commissioner’s decision regarding a complaint about the Niagara Parks Commission.
                                                                  
The Integrity Commissioner has accepted a finding of no wrongdoing on the part of the Chair of the Niagara Parks Commission regarding the complaint.  While accepting the Integrity Commissioner’s decision, the Province believes it is clear that more work needs to be done to ensure public confidence in the openness and transparency of Ministry of Tourism agencies.

 

An independent consultant has been hired to conduct a governance review of all tourism agencies, beginning with the Niagara Parks Commission, to examine the overall effectiveness of existing governance principles and practices and make recommendations for improvement.

In addition to the governance review, and in response to the Integrity Commissioner’s report, the Ministry of Tourism will work with the Niagara Parks Commission to:

 

• Conduct a special audit of procurement and lease processes
• Audit recent procurement practices
• Provide guidance to facilitate accountability and sound business decisions
• Provide additional Board governance training

 

QUOTES

 

“I welcome the Integrity Commissioner’s report on this matter, and I agree with the Commissioner that additional steps are needed to ensure that the government’s and the public’s expectations for good governance and transparency are being met. I am confident the plan we have developed will clarify accountabilities and instil greater public confidence in the Niagara Parks Commission and all of our agencies.”

 

- Monique Smith, Minister of Tourism

QUICK FACTS

 

• The Niagara Parks Commission is an arm's-length agency of the province that reports to the Ministry of Tourism. The Niagara Parks Act identifies its powers and accountability mechanisms. 
  
• The Ministry of Tourism oversees six agencies across the province. They each play a key role in stimulating economic growth and job creation, and helping to build stronger communities.

LEARN MORE

Read the Integrity Commissioner’s report at www.oico.on.ca.

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Contacts:
Lisa DiLollo, Minister’s Office, 416-325-4543.
Mark Thompson, Communications Branch, (416) 325-8391