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Ontario Assembly Bill

Ontario Bill 107

43rd Parl. 1st Sess.
May 15, 2023
9-1-1 Everywhere in Ontario Act, 2023
  • This is a law called Bill 107, enacted in 2023 in Ontario, Canada. It is called the 9-1-1 Everywhere in Ontario Act. The purpose of this law is to ensure that when someone dials 9-1-1 in Ontario, they are connected to the appropriate call center for police, ambulance, and fire services. The law also requires that the call centers have the necessary infrastructure to share information and dispatch emergency services efficiently. Additionally, the law establishes an Assistant Ombudsman responsible for overseeing 9-1-1 operations and requires that call center staff receive proper training and support. The law also addresses communication methods for callers who cannot verbally communicate their needs and establishes a policy for handling emergency services delays. Amendments are made to the Ombudsman Act to include the Assistant Ombudsman responsible for 9-1-1 operations. The law comes into effect on the day it receives Royal Assent and is known as the 9-1-1 Everywhere in Ontario Act, 2023.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • One steelman argument in favor of Bill 107 2023, the 9-1-1 Everywhere in Ontario Act, is that it aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency response services in Ontario. By enacting this legislation, the government is taking necessary steps to ensure that individuals across the province have access to reliable and responsive 9-1-1 services. The Act outlines specific duties and responsibilities for the Minister, call centers, and emergency responders to ensure that the necessary infrastructure, training, and support systems are in place. This includes the establishment of an interoperable radio channel for multi-agency responses, measures to improve communication between call takers and dispatchers, and the provision of mental health supports for 9-1-1 personnel. Furthermore, the Act introduces the role of an Assistant Ombudsman responsible for the oversight of 9-1-1 operations. This ensures that there is an independent authority monitoring the provision of 9-1-1 services and investigating any concerns or complaints. The Assistant Ombudsman is also tasked with developing public awareness campaigns and investigating methods to deter inappropriate use of 9-1-1 services. Overall, this Act demonstrates a commitment to enhancing emergency response services in Ontario, ensuring that individuals in need receive timely and appropriate assistance. By improving communication systems, training, and oversight, the Act aims to save lives and improve public safety.

SteelmanSpren Against

  • Steelman Argument Opposing Bill 107 2023: Bill 107 2023, also known as the 9-1-1 Everywhere in Ontario Act, may seem well-intentioned, but it raises concerns from a right-wing perspective regarding government overreach and potential inefficiencies. Here are some key points to consider: 1. Government Control: This bill grants the Minister and the Assistant Ombudsman significant power and oversight over 9-1-1 operations. This level of government control can lead to bureaucratic red tape, stifling innovation, and hindering the ability of local communities to address their unique emergency response needs. 2. Cost and Taxpayer Burden: Implementing the infrastructure and training required by this bill will undoubtedly come at a significant cost. Taxpayers will bear the burden of funding these initiatives, potentially leading to increased taxes or diverting resources from other essential services. 3. Lack of Local Autonomy: The bill imposes a one-size-fits-all approach to emergency response across Ontario. Local communities should have the autonomy to determine the most effective and efficient emergency response systems that suit their specific needs. Centralizing control under the Minister and Assistant Ombudsman undermines local decision-making and may not adequately address the diverse needs of different regions. 4. Potential for Inefficiency: While the bill aims to improve communication and coordination among emergency services, the requirement for all call centers to operate on the same computer-aided dispatch system may lead to compatibility issues and delays in emergency response. Local call centers should have the flexibility to choose systems that work best for their specific circumstances. 5. Privacy Concerns: The bill grants the Assistant Ombudsman access to personal information related to 9-1-1 calls, including investigations into deaths. This raises concerns about privacy and the potential for abuse or mishandling of sensitive data. Safeguards must be in place to protect the privacy rights of individuals involved in emergency situations. 6. Market Competition: By centralizing control and mandating specific systems and training, the bill may stifle competition and innovation in the emergency response industry. Allowing market forces to drive improvements and advancements in emergency services can lead to more efficient and cost-effective solutions. In conclusion, while the goal of improving 9-1-1 services in Ontario is commendable, Bill 107 2023 raises concerns about government control, cost, lack of local autonomy, potential inefficiencies, privacy, and market competition. A more balanced
First Reading
  • May 15, 2023, noon
  • In Progress
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