Ontario NDP platform to include universal benefits for workers, deprivatizing Hydro One

TORONTO – Ontario’s New Democrat leader says her platform will include improved public services, deprivatizing Hydro One and universal benefits for workers.

Andrea Horwath told a party event on Saturday that voters can expect to see the full platform in the coming weeks.

Horwath says if it’s elected, the NDP would implement universal pharmacare and dental coverage for workers, stop cuts to health care and convert student loans into grants.

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She also says she would hold the federal government accountable for the rights of Indigenous people in issues like clean drinking water on reserves.

Horwath criticized newly elected Progressive Conservative leader Doug Ford and his plans for government cuts, and said that Ontarians are ready for change after years under Kathleen Wynne’s Liberals.

WATCH: NDP leader Andrea Horwath said on Saturday that they promise to provide prescription drug and dental plans to all Ontarians. 

A recent online poll conducted by Leger suggests Horwath is narrowly more popular than Wynne as a leader, but much less popular than Ford.

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In a statement released after Horwath’s announcement, Wynne says she welcomes “many of the ideas brought forward by the NDP.”

“On Monday, in the Speech from the Throne, our government will outline our plan to invest in mental health, health care, home care and child care. It will also detail investments in areas that make life more affordable,” Wynne said.

Ontario’s provincial election is set for June 7.