Thank you to the member for his remarks this morning—like me, in a rural riding. I was particularly interested in the issues he talked about regarding transportation, both for individuals and for businesses. I do note, in the fall economic statement, the commitment by the government to extend the reduction of fuel tax and gas tax to the end of 2023. I hope the member sees that as good news.

On the health care front: Again, the rural hospital network, whether it’s Wawa, Elliot Lake, or, in my riding, Wiarton, Lion’s Head, Markdale—these places need to work hard and do work hard. The member talked about funding reductions, but I point out—on page 8 of the fall economic statement—that the health care funding will rise from $69.6 billion this year to $75.2 billion this fiscal year, an increase of $5.6 billion. I hope the member sees that as a positive step and will support the government in this legislation.

I thank the member for his comments this morning. I respect his views on a whole range of subjects, but I would offer the consideration—and you said that we all know there are substantial issues in many areas, but I would say, with respect, that this bill does look to address many of them. On the funding side, in health care, we’re increasing it by $5.6 billion; education, up $3.6 billion—major numbers. On ODSP, a very major change—to increase the monthly income threshold from $200 to $1,000. That’s a very big change and may allow up to 25,000 people who can work, to work. That’s a big structural change to the program. And infrastructure investing—I say there are all of these positive items in the bill that I hope the member will consider.

Invasive species are a growing concern to Ontario’s biodiversity. Last year, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry said, “It’s likely that there are small numbers of wild pigs scattered across southern, central and eastern Ontario.” Invasive species like these put our ecosystem and agricultural sector at serious risk.

In my community, media reported that wild pigs were spotted in Grey-Bruce last year, raising concerns about the damage they could inflict on crops and farmland. The cost of wild pig damage to agriculture and the environment can be extensive and costly.

Speaker, my question to the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry: What is our government doing to stop the spread of invasive species in Ontario?

Speaker, I thank the minister for that answer.

We know invasive species do not respect borders and the strategies to prevent invasive species differ significantly across jurisdictions. Invasive species cause biodiversity loss and negative impacts on forestry, tourism, recreation and agriculture. The cost and consequences of delay and inaction are immeasurable and far-reaching. We must ensure that our government’s actions are both reactive and proactive when addressing this issue head-on.

Speaker, what is our government doing to partner with other jurisdictions and agencies in order to protect Ontario’s agriculture and the environment from invasive species?