Throne speech offers few specifics for public services

Notable comments, omissions and undertakings in the speech include:

• an overdue acknowledgement that "workers lift us all up . "  However, there was no mention of  improving the lot of part - time workers or a change of heart about waiting three more years for $10 minimum wage;  

• a new text book and technology of $300 for college and university students ; 

• the Finance Minister will make a fall economic statement ,   focused on maintaining " a strong fiscal position' for Ontario " by keeping our taxes  "competitive"  and focusing major investments on education and infrastructure. 

• the cost of the Ontario Drug Benefit will be uploaded from the municipalities next year,  and starting in 2009  the program costs of the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)  will be uploaded. These program costs were downloaded by the Harris Tories. The government also pledged to improve accessibility for Ontarians with disabilities.

• a focused strategy to make progress against child poverty , and dental benefits for low income earners were promised.

"Other healthcare professionals"  got a rare reference in the section of the speech on a  "healthier Ontario. "   But in  promising  35,000 more long-term care beds, there is no mention of the staff needed to care for these new residents. 

Homecare services are to be broadened and a care - giver grant provided to help those caring for elderly family .New legislation  was  promised to reduce toxic pollution ,  but there's no mention of how this will be enforced by understaffed Ministries .  

The Ipperwash Inquiry Report is acknowledged as a road map for progress in Ontario's relationship with First Nations.

The entire speech can be found at:  http://www.premier.gov.on.ca/news/Product.asp?ProductID=1799