Local MPP/Government House Leader responds to concerns over legislature's 21-week adjournment

He noted conferences, public hearings on legislation, committee meetings and work in their ridings will keep them busy during the break

On Tuesday, Ontario legislators wrapped up the spring sitting, beginning an approximate 21-week break that will keep the legislature closed until Oct. 27, the day after municipal elections are held across the province. 

The move has drawn criticism from some Ontarians who believe the legislature should sit longer.

Government House Leader Steve Clark said he measures a parliamentary session by what is accomplished while members are in the chamber.

Clark also pointed to the 2026 Ontario budget, including a measure to remove the provincial portion of the HST for eligible first-time homebuyers purchasing a home valued at up to $1 million.

He said the schedule changes each year, and this year the government is following a precedent set in 2022 by returning the legislature on the Tuesday after municipal election day. 

Clark said even though the legislature is adjourned, MPPs, ministers and Premier Doug Ford still have plenty of work to do across the province.

He noted conferences, public hearings on legislation, committee meetings and work in their ridings will keep them busy during the break.

Story by: Evan Gibb