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SCOOP — Two Liberal MPPs privately wrote to Labour Minister David Piccini in support of projects in their ridings seeking a slice of the Ford government’s $2.5-billion worker-training fund.
One pushed for a meeting to get a late applicant in the door, while another went to bat for a donor-linked project.
For background: The Skills Development Fund (SDF) has spiraled into a scandal over who’s getting the money — and why. Earlier this month, Shelley Spence, the province’s auditor, found that the fund “was not fair, transparent or accountable.” Even though less than half of successful applicants were graded “high” by the public servants who reviewed them, most — 54 per cent — landed in the “lower” category, with support from lobbyists.
“We identified 64 low- and medium- ranked applications that had hired registered lobbyists,” the report read.
Piccini later said he personally intervened to pick some of the “lower-scoring” recipients. Two separate analyses by The Trillium and The Star found that donor-linked groups received most of the cash, with $237 million collected by pro-Progressive Conservative unions and industry groups.
The twist: Opposition parties say it’s a “slush fund” — and are calling on Piccini to step down. Yet behind the scenes, correspondence shows some MPPs have privately lobbied for projects in their own ridings to receive cash — including one who asked for a meeting to squeeze in a late applicant and another who supported a project connected to a past donor.
Make no mistake: Such asks are far from rare, but in this case, Progressive Conservatives are crying hypocrisy — saying it “speaks volumes” about how the Opposition is playing in public versus in private.
SCOOP — Two Liberal MPPs privately wrote to Labour Minister David Piccini in support of projects in their ridings seeking a slice of the Ford government’s $2.5-billion worker-training fund.
One pushed for a meeting to get a late applicant in the door, while another went to bat for a donor-linked project.
For background: The Skills Development Fund (SDF) has spiraled into a scandal over who’s getting the money — and why. Earlier this month, Shelley Spence, the province’s auditor, found that the fund “was not fair, transparent or accountable.” Even though less than half of successful applicants were graded “high” by the public servants who reviewed them, most — 54 per cent — landed in the “lower” category, with support from lobbyists.
“We identified 64 low- and medium- ranked applications that had hired registered lobbyists,” the report read.
Piccini later said he personally intervened to pick some of the “lower-scoring” recipients. Two separate analyses by The Trillium and The Star found that donor-linked groups received most of the cash, with $237 million collected by pro-Progressive Conservative unions and industry groups.
The twist: Opposition parties say it’s a “slush fund” — and are calling on Piccini to step down. Yet behind the scenes, correspondence shows some MPPs have privately lobbied for projects in their own ridings to receive cash — including one who asked for a meeting to squeeze in a late applicant and another who supported a project connected to a past donor.
Make no mistake: Such asks are far from rare, but in this case, Progressive Conservatives are crying hypocrisy — saying it “speaks volumes” about how the Opposition is playing in public versus in private.
SCOOP — Two Liberal MPPs privately wrote to Labour Minister David Piccini in support of projects in their ridings seeking a slice of the Ford government’s $2.5-billion worker-training fund.
One pushed for a meeting to get a late applicant in the door, while another went to bat for a donor-linked project.
For background: The Skills Development Fund (SDF) has spiraled into a scandal over who’s getting the money — and why. Earlier this month, Shelley Spence, the province’s auditor, found that the fund “was not fair, transparent or accountable.” Even though less than half of successful applicants were graded “high” by the public servants who reviewed them, most — 54 per cent — landed in the “lower” category, with support from lobbyists.
“We identified 64 low- and medium- ranked applications that had hired registered lobbyists,” the report read.
Piccini later said he personally intervened to pick some of the “lower-scoring” recipients. Two separate analyses by The Trillium and The Star found that donor-linked groups received most of the cash, with $237 million collected by pro-Progressive Conservative unions and industry groups.
The twist: Opposition parties say it’s a “slush fund” — and are calling on Piccini to step down. Yet behind the scenes, correspondence shows some MPPs have privately lobbied for projects in their own ridings to receive cash — including one who asked for a meeting to squeeze in a late applicant and another who supported a project connected to a past donor.
Make no mistake: Such asks are far from rare, but in this case, Progressive Conservatives are crying hypocrisy — saying it “speaks volumes” about how the Opposition is playing in public versus in private.
What we know: In late July, the province opened a new call for project proposals. “Applications will be accepted for review on a continuous basis until October 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.,” the application read.
Last Wednesday, Liberal MPP Tyler Watt asked Piccini for a meeting to make the case for a late applicant.
The optics? Not ideal. Since the deadline had come and gone, some say Watt’s request appeared like an appeal to bend the rules — the same criticism his party has leveled at the Ford government. Earlier this week, he asked on X: “... Where is that so-called accountability and transparency you promised?”
Though Piccini hasn’t replied to the letter, he called Watt out on Monday. “I don’t know how members opposite, on the one hand, can say this is one of the worst funds ever, and then that very member asking the question writes to me to support a program in his own riding that was submitted late,” he said.
Asked about it outside the chamber, Watt’s staff quickly pulled him aside, saying they were “aware of this story” and would follow up. They never did.
Meanwhile: In another letter to Piccini last Wednesday, Ted Hsu voiced his “strong support” for Branded To Film, a group seeking funding in the sixth round. We’ve reviewed and verified the authenticity of Hsu’s correspondence.
The company is described as “a production company in Kingston, Ontario… creating a local skilled workforce.” In December, they pitched a $20-million film studio in the city’s east side — a project Kingston’s mayor said would be “big” for jobs and the local economy.
Here’s the wrinkle: Jason Joly, listed as one of the company’s four principals, donated $802.00 to Hsu’s leadership campaign in 2023, Elections Ontario records show.
“I think it speaks volume about the character of the members of the Opposition who try to smear a program that provides so much value to workers, while privately advocating for the same program,” one Progressive Conservative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“I just wish members acted with more integrity and appear less concerned about likes on Twitter and more concerned with supporting workers across Ontario.”
“Their stance on SDF funding appears inconsistent,” a second said. “While they publicly oppose the administration of the fund and critique its recipients, they have lent their own support to organizations with which they are connected.”
In the chamber: “I don’t ask for donations in return for favours,” Hsu said. “I get many smaller-sized donations because people believe in me, not because I dangle the public purse in front of them,” he added.
“Last election, I had the biggest margin of victory in the province — and I believe that you can try to do politics in a way that is fair, transparent and accountable.”
The party denied that any caucus member tried to pull strings in the process.
“Liberal MPPs who submitted letters of support for, or requested meetings regarding, Skills Development Fund applicants did so solely to ensure those applicants received consideration under the same selection process as everyone else,” a spokesperson said. “They exerted no control or influence over the funding process other than inviting the minister to consider their requests.”
Instead, they chalked it up to business as usual. “When this government allows friends, donors, and party insiders to qualify for millions in funding regardless of merit,” they added, “writing letters of support is the least Opposition MPPs can do.”
Liberal MPP John Fraser stood by Hsu. “It’s not inappropriate,” he said. “Our job is to connect people to the government.”
“Ted is as straight as they come,” Fraser added.
Pressed on claims of hypocrisy: “It’s bullshit — total, absolute, unadulterated bullshit.”
“Any MPP should feel free to advocate for organizations and opportunities in their community with any funds,” said NDP leader Marit Stiles. “Who’s making the decisions? Who holds the purse strings? To me, it’s night and day between that and a minister who has hands all over, deciding which projects get funded and which don’t.”
But on Hsu: “[The Liberals] had their hands all over this from the beginning,” she added, referencing the then-Partnership and Training Fund. “But truly, I don’t generally have a problem with an MPP advocating for a community based project in their riding.”
Another Tory didn’t seem too fussed about the whole thing. “The Skills Development Fund is a nothing burger. Lobbyists lobbied and the MPPs went to bat for their constituents,” they said.
“I’m not sure what we’re supposed to be upset about.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. Are you David Piccini — or someone who wrote to him? Let’s chat — and I’ll keep you anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
SCOOP — Two Liberal MPPs privately wrote to Labour Minister David Piccini in support of projects in their ridings seeking a slice of the Ford government’s $2.5-billion worker-training fund.
One pushed for a meeting to get a late applicant in the door, while another went to bat for a donor-linked project.
For background: The Skills Development Fund (SDF) has spiraled into a scandal over who’s getting the money — and why. Earlier this month, Shelley Spence, the province’s auditor, found that the fund “was not fair, transparent or accountable.” Even though less than half of successful applicants were graded “high” by the public servants who reviewed them, most — 54 per cent — landed in the “lower” category, with support from lobbyists.
“We identified 64 low- and medium- ranked applications that had hired registered lobbyists,” the report read.
Piccini later said he personally intervened to pick some of the “lower-scoring” recipients. Two separate analyses by The Trillium and The Star found that donor-linked groups received most of the cash, with $237 million collected by pro-Progressive Conservative unions and industry groups.
The twist: Opposition parties say it’s a “slush fund” — and are calling on Piccini to step down. Yet behind the scenes, correspondence shows some MPPs have privately lobbied for projects in their own ridings to receive cash — including one who asked for a meeting to squeeze in a late applicant and another who supported a project connected to a past donor.
Make no mistake: Such asks are far from rare, but in this case, Progressive Conservatives are crying hypocrisy — saying it “speaks volumes” about how the Opposition is playing in public versus in private.
What we know: In late July, the province opened a new call for project proposals. “Applications will be accepted for review on a continuous basis until October 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.,” the application read.
Last Wednesday, Liberal MPP Tyler Watt asked Piccini for a meeting to make the case for a late applicant.
The optics? Not ideal. Since the deadline had come and gone, some say Watt’s request appeared like an appeal to bend the rules — the same criticism his party has leveled at the Ford government. Earlier this week, he asked on X: “... Where is that so-called accountability and transparency you promised?”
Though Piccini hasn’t replied to the letter, he called Watt out on Monday. “I don’t know how members opposite, on the one hand, can say this is one of the worst funds ever, and then that very member asking the question writes to me to support a program in his own riding that was submitted late,” he said.
Asked about it outside the chamber, Watt’s staff quickly pulled him aside, saying they were “aware of this story” and would follow up. They never did.
Meanwhile: In another letter to Piccini last Wednesday, Ted Hsu voiced his “strong support” for Branded To Film, a group seeking funding in the sixth round. We’ve reviewed and verified the authenticity of Hsu’s correspondence.
The company is described as “a production company in Kingston, Ontario… creating a local skilled workforce.” In December, they pitched a $20-million film studio in the city’s east side — a project Kingston’s mayor said would be “big” for jobs and the local economy.
Here’s the wrinkle: Jason Joly, listed as one of the company’s four principals, donated $802.00 to Hsu’s leadership campaign in 2023, Elections Ontario records show.
“I think it speaks volume about the character of the members of the Opposition who try to smear a program that provides so much value to workers, while privately advocating for the same program,” one Progressive Conservative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“I just wish members acted with more integrity and appear less concerned about likes on Twitter and more concerned with supporting workers across Ontario.”
“Their stance on SDF funding appears inconsistent,” a second said. “While they publicly oppose the administration of the fund and critique its recipients, they have lent their own support to organizations with which they are connected.”
In the chamber: “I don’t ask for donations in return for favours,” Hsu said. “I get many smaller-sized donations because people believe in me, not because I dangle the public purse in front of them,” he added.
“Last election, I had the biggest margin of victory in the province — and I believe that you can try to do politics in a way that is fair, transparent and accountable.”
The party denied that any caucus member tried to pull strings in the process.
“Liberal MPPs who submitted letters of support for, or requested meetings regarding, Skills Development Fund applicants did so solely to ensure those applicants received consideration under the same selection process as everyone else,” a spokesperson said. “They exerted no control or influence over the funding process other than inviting the minister to consider their requests.”
Instead, they chalked it up to business as usual. “When this government allows friends, donors, and party insiders to qualify for millions in funding regardless of merit,” they added, “writing letters of support is the least Opposition MPPs can do.”
Liberal MPP John Fraser stood by Hsu. “It’s not inappropriate,” he said. “Our job is to connect people to the government.”
“Ted is as straight as they come,” Fraser added.
Pressed on claims of hypocrisy: “It’s bullshit — total, absolute, unadulterated bullshit.”
“Any MPP should feel free to advocate for organizations and opportunities in their community with any funds,” said NDP leader Marit Stiles. “Who’s making the decisions? Who holds the purse strings? To me, it’s night and day between that and a minister who has hands all over, deciding which projects get funded and which don’t.”
But on Hsu: “[The Liberals] had their hands all over this from the beginning,” she added, referencing the then-Partnership and Training Fund. “But truly, I don’t generally have a problem with an MPP advocating for a community based project in their riding.”
Another Tory didn’t seem too fussed about the whole thing. “The Skills Development Fund is a nothing burger. Lobbyists lobbied and the MPPs went to bat for their constituents,” they said.
“I’m not sure what we’re supposed to be upset about.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. Are you David Piccini — or someone who wrote to him? Let’s chat — and I’ll keep you anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
SCOOP — Two Liberal MPPs privately wrote to Labour Minister David Piccini in support of projects in their ridings seeking a slice of the Ford government’s $2.5-billion worker-training fund.
One pushed for a meeting to get a late applicant in the door, while another went to bat for a donor-linked project.
For background: The Skills Development Fund (SDF) has spiraled into a scandal over who’s getting the money — and why. Earlier this month, Shelley Spence, the province’s auditor, found that the fund “was not fair, transparent or accountable.” Even though less than half of successful applicants were graded “high” by the public servants who reviewed them, most — 54 per cent — landed in the “lower” category, with support from lobbyists.
“We identified 64 low- and medium- ranked applications that had hired registered lobbyists,” the report read.
Piccini later said he personally intervened to pick some of the “lower-scoring” recipients. Two separate analyses by The Trillium and The Star found that donor-linked groups received most of the cash, with $237 million collected by pro-Progressive Conservative unions and industry groups.
The twist: Opposition parties say it’s a “slush fund” — and are calling on Piccini to step down. Yet behind the scenes, correspondence shows some MPPs have privately lobbied for projects in their own ridings to receive cash — including one who asked for a meeting to squeeze in a late applicant and another who supported a project connected to a past donor.
Make no mistake: Such asks are far from rare, but in this case, Progressive Conservatives are crying hypocrisy — saying it “speaks volumes” about how the Opposition is playing in public versus in private.
What we know: In late July, the province opened a new call for project proposals. “Applications will be accepted for review on a continuous basis until October 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.,” the application read.
Last Wednesday, Liberal MPP Tyler Watt asked Piccini for a meeting to make the case for a late applicant.
The optics? Not ideal. Since the deadline had come and gone, some say Watt’s request appeared like an appeal to bend the rules — the same criticism his party has leveled at the Ford government. Earlier this week, he asked on X: “... Where is that so-called accountability and transparency you promised?”
Though Piccini hasn’t replied to the letter, he called Watt out on Monday. “I don’t know how members opposite, on the one hand, can say this is one of the worst funds ever, and then that very member asking the question writes to me to support a program in his own riding that was submitted late,” he said.
Asked about it outside the chamber, Watt’s staff quickly pulled him aside, saying they were “aware of this story” and would follow up. They never did.
Meanwhile: In another letter to Piccini last Wednesday, Ted Hsu voiced his “strong support” for Branded To Film, a group seeking funding in the sixth round. We’ve reviewed and verified the authenticity of Hsu’s correspondence.
The company is described as “a production company in Kingston, Ontario… creating a local skilled workforce.” In December, they pitched a $20-million film studio in the city’s east side — a project Kingston’s mayor said would be “big” for jobs and the local economy.
Here’s the wrinkle: Jason Joly, listed as one of the company’s four principals, donated $802.00 to Hsu’s leadership campaign in 2023, Elections Ontario records show.
“I think it speaks volume about the character of the members of the Opposition who try to smear a program that provides so much value to workers, while privately advocating for the same program,” one Progressive Conservative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“I just wish members acted with more integrity and appear less concerned about likes on Twitter and more concerned with supporting workers across Ontario.”
“Their stance on SDF funding appears inconsistent,” a second said. “While they publicly oppose the administration of the fund and critique its recipients, they have lent their own support to organizations with which they are connected.”
In the chamber: “I don’t ask for donations in return for favours,” Hsu said. “I get many smaller-sized donations because people believe in me, not because I dangle the public purse in front of them,” he added.
“Last election, I had the biggest margin of victory in the province — and I believe that you can try to do politics in a way that is fair, transparent and accountable.”
The party denied that any caucus member tried to pull strings in the process.
“Liberal MPPs who submitted letters of support for, or requested meetings regarding, Skills Development Fund applicants did so solely to ensure those applicants received consideration under the same selection process as everyone else,” a spokesperson said. “They exerted no control or influence over the funding process other than inviting the minister to consider their requests.”
Instead, they chalked it up to business as usual. “When this government allows friends, donors, and party insiders to qualify for millions in funding regardless of merit,” they added, “writing letters of support is the least Opposition MPPs can do.”
Liberal MPP John Fraser stood by Hsu. “It’s not inappropriate,” he said. “Our job is to connect people to the government.”
“Ted is as straight as they come,” Fraser added.
Pressed on claims of hypocrisy: “It’s bullshit — total, absolute, unadulterated bullshit.”
“Any MPP should feel free to advocate for organizations and opportunities in their community with any funds,” said NDP leader Marit Stiles. “Who’s making the decisions? Who holds the purse strings? To me, it’s night and day between that and a minister who has hands all over, deciding which projects get funded and which don’t.”
But on Hsu: “[The Liberals] had their hands all over this from the beginning,” she added, referencing the then-Partnership and Training Fund. “But truly, I don’t generally have a problem with an MPP advocating for a community based project in their riding.”
Another Tory didn’t seem too fussed about the whole thing. “The Skills Development Fund is a nothing burger. Lobbyists lobbied and the MPPs went to bat for their constituents,” they said.
“I’m not sure what we’re supposed to be upset about.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. Are you David Piccini — or someone who wrote to him? Let’s chat — and I’ll keep you anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
SCOOP — Two Liberal MPPs privately wrote to Labour Minister David Piccini in support of projects in their ridings seeking a slice of the Ford government’s $2.5-billion worker-training fund.
One pushed for a meeting to get a late applicant in the door, while another went to bat for a donor-linked project.
For background: The Skills Development Fund (SDF) has spiraled into a scandal over who’s getting the money — and why. Earlier this month, Shelley Spence, the province’s auditor, found that the fund “was not fair, transparent or accountable.” Even though less than half of successful applicants were graded “high” by the public servants who reviewed them, most — 54 per cent — landed in the “lower” category, with support from lobbyists.
“We identified 64 low- and medium- ranked applications that had hired registered lobbyists,” the report read.
Piccini later said he personally intervened to pick some of the “lower-scoring” recipients. Two separate analyses by The Trillium and The Star found that donor-linked groups received most of the cash, with $237 million collected by pro-Progressive Conservative unions and industry groups.
The twist: Opposition parties say it’s a “slush fund” — and are calling on Piccini to step down. Yet behind the scenes, correspondence shows some MPPs have privately lobbied for projects in their own ridings to receive cash — including one who asked for a meeting to squeeze in a late applicant and another who supported a project connected to a past donor.
Make no mistake: Such asks are far from rare, but in this case, Progressive Conservatives are crying hypocrisy — saying it “speaks volumes” about how the Opposition is playing in public versus in private.
What we know: In late July, the province opened a new call for project proposals. “Applications will be accepted for review on a continuous basis until October 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.,” the application read.
Last Wednesday, Liberal MPP Tyler Watt asked Piccini for a meeting to make the case for a late applicant.
The optics? Not ideal. Since the deadline had come and gone, some say Watt’s request appeared like an appeal to bend the rules — the same criticism his party has leveled at the Ford government. Earlier this week, he asked on X: “... Where is that so-called accountability and transparency you promised?”
Though Piccini hasn’t replied to the letter, he called Watt out on Monday. “I don’t know how members opposite, on the one hand, can say this is one of the worst funds ever, and then that very member asking the question writes to me to support a program in his own riding that was submitted late,” he said.
Asked about it outside the chamber, Watt’s staff quickly pulled him aside, saying they were “aware of this story” and would follow up. They never did.
Meanwhile: In another letter to Piccini last Wednesday, Ted Hsu voiced his “strong support” for Branded To Film, a group seeking funding in the sixth round. We’ve reviewed and verified the authenticity of Hsu’s correspondence.
The company is described as “a production company in Kingston, Ontario… creating a local skilled workforce.” In December, they pitched a $20-million film studio in the city’s east side — a project Kingston’s mayor said would be “big” for jobs and the local economy.
Here’s the wrinkle: Jason Joly, listed as one of the company’s four principals, donated $802.00 to Hsu’s leadership campaign in 2023, Elections Ontario records show.
“I think it speaks volume about the character of the members of the Opposition who try to smear a program that provides so much value to workers, while privately advocating for the same program,” one Progressive Conservative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“I just wish members acted with more integrity and appear less concerned about likes on Twitter and more concerned with supporting workers across Ontario.”
“Their stance on SDF funding appears inconsistent,” a second said. “While they publicly oppose the administration of the fund and critique its recipients, they have lent their own support to organizations with which they are connected.”
In the chamber: “I don’t ask for donations in return for favours,” Hsu said. “I get many smaller-sized donations because people believe in me, not because I dangle the public purse in front of them,” he added.
“Last election, I had the biggest margin of victory in the province — and I believe that you can try to do politics in a way that is fair, transparent and accountable.”
The party denied that any caucus member tried to pull strings in the process.
“Liberal MPPs who submitted letters of support for, or requested meetings regarding, Skills Development Fund applicants did so solely to ensure those applicants received consideration under the same selection process as everyone else,” a spokesperson said. “They exerted no control or influence over the funding process other than inviting the minister to consider their requests.”
Instead, they chalked it up to business as usual. “When this government allows friends, donors, and party insiders to qualify for millions in funding regardless of merit,” they added, “writing letters of support is the least Opposition MPPs can do.”
Liberal MPP John Fraser stood by Hsu. “It’s not inappropriate,” he said. “Our job is to connect people to the government.”
“Ted is as straight as they come,” Fraser added.
Pressed on claims of hypocrisy: “It’s bullshit — total, absolute, unadulterated bullshit.”
“Any MPP should feel free to advocate for organizations and opportunities in their community with any funds,” said NDP leader Marit Stiles. “Who’s making the decisions? Who holds the purse strings? To me, it’s night and day between that and a minister who has hands all over, deciding which projects get funded and which don’t.”
But on Hsu: “[The Liberals] had their hands all over this from the beginning,” she added, referencing the then-Partnership and Training Fund. “But truly, I don’t generally have a problem with an MPP advocating for a community based project in their riding.”
Another Tory didn’t seem too fussed about the whole thing. “The Skills Development Fund is a nothing burger. Lobbyists lobbied and the MPPs went to bat for their constituents,” they said.
“I’m not sure what we’re supposed to be upset about.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. Are you David Piccini — or someone who wrote to him? Let’s chat — and I’ll keep you anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
SCOOP — Two Liberal MPPs privately wrote to Labour Minister David Piccini in support of projects in their ridings seeking a slice of the Ford government’s $2.5-billion worker-training fund.
One pushed for a meeting to get a late applicant in the door, while another went to bat for a donor-linked project.
For background: The Skills Development Fund (SDF) has spiraled into a scandal over who’s getting the money — and why. Earlier this month, Shelley Spence, the province’s auditor, found that the fund “was not fair, transparent or accountable.” Even though less than half of successful applicants were graded “high” by the public servants who reviewed them, most — 54 per cent — landed in the “lower” category, with support from lobbyists.
“We identified 64 low- and medium- ranked applications that had hired registered lobbyists,” the report read.
Piccini later said he personally intervened to pick some of the “lower-scoring” recipients. Two separate analyses by The Trillium and The Star found that donor-linked groups received most of the cash, with $237 million collected by pro-Progressive Conservative unions and industry groups.
The twist: Opposition parties say it’s a “slush fund” — and are calling on Piccini to step down. Yet behind the scenes, correspondence shows some MPPs have privately lobbied for projects in their own ridings to receive cash — including one who asked for a meeting to squeeze in a late applicant and another who supported a project connected to a past donor.
Make no mistake: Such asks are far from rare, but in this case, Progressive Conservatives are crying hypocrisy — saying it “speaks volumes” about how the Opposition is playing in public versus in private.
What we know: In late July, the province opened a new call for project proposals. “Applications will be accepted for review on a continuous basis until October 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.,” the application read.
Last Wednesday, Liberal MPP Tyler Watt asked Piccini for a meeting to make the case for a late applicant.
The optics? Not ideal. Since the deadline had come and gone, some say Watt’s request appeared like an appeal to bend the rules — the same criticism his party has leveled at the Ford government. Earlier this week, he asked on X: “... Where is that so-called accountability and transparency you promised?”
Though Piccini hasn’t replied to the letter, he called Watt out on Monday. “I don’t know how members opposite, on the one hand, can say this is one of the worst funds ever, and then that very member asking the question writes to me to support a program in his own riding that was submitted late,” he said.
Asked about it outside the chamber, Watt’s staff quickly pulled him aside, saying they were “aware of this story” and would follow up. They never did.
Meanwhile: In another letter to Piccini last Wednesday, Ted Hsu voiced his “strong support” for Branded To Film, a group seeking funding in the sixth round. We’ve reviewed and verified the authenticity of Hsu’s correspondence.
The company is described as “a production company in Kingston, Ontario… creating a local skilled workforce.” In December, they pitched a $20-million film studio in the city’s east side — a project Kingston’s mayor said would be “big” for jobs and the local economy.
Here’s the wrinkle: Jason Joly, listed as one of the company’s four principals, donated $802.00 to Hsu’s leadership campaign in 2023, Elections Ontario records show.
“I think it speaks volume about the character of the members of the Opposition who try to smear a program that provides so much value to workers, while privately advocating for the same program,” one Progressive Conservative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“I just wish members acted with more integrity and appear less concerned about likes on Twitter and more concerned with supporting workers across Ontario.”
“Their stance on SDF funding appears inconsistent,” a second said. “While they publicly oppose the administration of the fund and critique its recipients, they have lent their own support to organizations with which they are connected.”
In the chamber: “I don’t ask for donations in return for favours,” Hsu said. “I get many smaller-sized donations because people believe in me, not because I dangle the public purse in front of them,” he added.
“Last election, I had the biggest margin of victory in the province — and I believe that you can try to do politics in a way that is fair, transparent and accountable.”
The party denied that any caucus member tried to pull strings in the process.
“Liberal MPPs who submitted letters of support for, or requested meetings regarding, Skills Development Fund applicants did so solely to ensure those applicants received consideration under the same selection process as everyone else,” a spokesperson said. “They exerted no control or influence over the funding process other than inviting the minister to consider their requests.”
Instead, they chalked it up to business as usual. “When this government allows friends, donors, and party insiders to qualify for millions in funding regardless of merit,” they added, “writing letters of support is the least Opposition MPPs can do.”
Liberal MPP John Fraser stood by Hsu. “It’s not inappropriate,” he said. “Our job is to connect people to the government.”
“Ted is as straight as they come,” Fraser added.
Pressed on claims of hypocrisy: “It’s bullshit — total, absolute, unadulterated bullshit.”
“Any MPP should feel free to advocate for organizations and opportunities in their community with any funds,” said NDP leader Marit Stiles. “Who’s making the decisions? Who holds the purse strings? To me, it’s night and day between that and a minister who has hands all over, deciding which projects get funded and which don’t.”
But on Hsu: “[The Liberals] had their hands all over this from the beginning,” she added, referencing the then-Partnership and Training Fund. “But truly, I don’t generally have a problem with an MPP advocating for a community based project in their riding.”
Another Tory didn’t seem too fussed about the whole thing. “The Skills Development Fund is a nothing burger. Lobbyists lobbied and the MPPs went to bat for their constituents,” they said.
“I’m not sure what we’re supposed to be upset about.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. Are you David Piccini — or someone who wrote to him? Let’s chat — and I’ll keep you anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
SCOOP — Two Liberal MPPs privately wrote to Labour Minister David Piccini in support of projects in their ridings seeking a slice of the Ford government’s $2.5-billion worker-training fund.
One pushed for a meeting to get a late applicant in the door, while another went to bat for a donor-linked project.
For background: The Skills Development Fund (SDF) has spiraled into a scandal over who’s getting the money — and why. Earlier this month, Shelley Spence, the province’s auditor, found that the fund “was not fair, transparent or accountable.” Even though less than half of successful applicants were graded “high” by the public servants who reviewed them, most — 54 per cent — landed in the “lower” category, with support from lobbyists.
“We identified 64 low- and medium- ranked applications that had hired registered lobbyists,” the report read.
Piccini later said he personally intervened to pick some of the “lower-scoring” recipients. Two separate analyses by The Trillium and The Star found that donor-linked groups received most of the cash, with $237 million collected by pro-Progressive Conservative unions and industry groups.
The twist: Opposition parties say it’s a “slush fund” — and are calling on Piccini to step down. Yet behind the scenes, correspondence shows some MPPs have privately lobbied for projects in their own ridings to receive cash — including one who asked for a meeting to squeeze in a late applicant and another who supported a project connected to a past donor.
Make no mistake: Such asks are far from rare, but in this case, Progressive Conservatives are crying hypocrisy — saying it “speaks volumes” about how the Opposition is playing in public versus in private.
What we know: In late July, the province opened a new call for project proposals. “Applications will be accepted for review on a continuous basis until October 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.,” the application read.
Last Wednesday, Liberal MPP Tyler Watt asked Piccini for a meeting to make the case for a late applicant.
The optics? Not ideal. Since the deadline had come and gone, some say Watt’s request appeared like an appeal to bend the rules — the same criticism his party has leveled at the Ford government. Earlier this week, he asked on X: “... Where is that so-called accountability and transparency you promised?”
Though Piccini hasn’t replied to the letter, he called Watt out on Monday. “I don’t know how members opposite, on the one hand, can say this is one of the worst funds ever, and then that very member asking the question writes to me to support a program in his own riding that was submitted late,” he said.
Asked about it outside the chamber, Watt’s staff quickly pulled him aside, saying they were “aware of this story” and would follow up. They never did.
Meanwhile: In another letter to Piccini last Wednesday, Ted Hsu voiced his “strong support” for Branded To Film, a group seeking funding in the sixth round. We’ve reviewed and verified the authenticity of Hsu’s correspondence.
The company is described as “a production company in Kingston, Ontario… creating a local skilled workforce.” In December, they pitched a $20-million film studio in the city’s east side — a project Kingston’s mayor said would be “big” for jobs and the local economy.
Here’s the wrinkle: Jason Joly, listed as one of the company’s four principals, donated $802.00 to Hsu’s leadership campaign in 2023, Elections Ontario records show.
“I think it speaks volume about the character of the members of the Opposition who try to smear a program that provides so much value to workers, while privately advocating for the same program,” one Progressive Conservative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“I just wish members acted with more integrity and appear less concerned about likes on Twitter and more concerned with supporting workers across Ontario.”
“Their stance on SDF funding appears inconsistent,” a second said. “While they publicly oppose the administration of the fund and critique its recipients, they have lent their own support to organizations with which they are connected.”
In the chamber: “I don’t ask for donations in return for favours,” Hsu said. “I get many smaller-sized donations because people believe in me, not because I dangle the public purse in front of them,” he added.
“Last election, I had the biggest margin of victory in the province — and I believe that you can try to do politics in a way that is fair, transparent and accountable.”
The party denied that any caucus member tried to pull strings in the process.
“Liberal MPPs who submitted letters of support for, or requested meetings regarding, Skills Development Fund applicants did so solely to ensure those applicants received consideration under the same selection process as everyone else,” a spokesperson said. “They exerted no control or influence over the funding process other than inviting the minister to consider their requests.”
Instead, they chalked it up to business as usual. “When this government allows friends, donors, and party insiders to qualify for millions in funding regardless of merit,” they added, “writing letters of support is the least Opposition MPPs can do.”
Liberal MPP John Fraser stood by Hsu. “It’s not inappropriate,” he said. “Our job is to connect people to the government.”
“Ted is as straight as they come,” Fraser added.
Pressed on claims of hypocrisy: “It’s bullshit — total, absolute, unadulterated bullshit.”
“Any MPP should feel free to advocate for organizations and opportunities in their community with any funds,” said NDP leader Marit Stiles. “Who’s making the decisions? Who holds the purse strings? To me, it’s night and day between that and a minister who has hands all over, deciding which projects get funded and which don’t.”
But on Hsu: “[The Liberals] had their hands all over this from the beginning,” she added, referencing the then-Partnership and Training Fund. “But truly, I don’t generally have a problem with an MPP advocating for a community based project in their riding.”
Another Tory didn’t seem too fussed about the whole thing. “The Skills Development Fund is a nothing burger. Lobbyists lobbied and the MPPs went to bat for their constituents,” they said.
“I’m not sure what we’re supposed to be upset about.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. Are you David Piccini — or someone who wrote to him? Let’s chat — and I’ll keep you anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
SCOOP — Two Liberal MPPs privately wrote to Labour Minister David Piccini in support of projects in their ridings seeking a slice of the Ford government’s $2.5-billion worker-training fund.
One pushed for a meeting to get a late applicant in the door, while another went to bat for a donor-linked project.
For background: The Skills Development Fund (SDF) has spiraled into a scandal over who’s getting the money — and why. Earlier this month, Shelley Spence, the province’s auditor, found that the fund “was not fair, transparent or accountable.” Even though less than half of successful applicants were graded “high” by the public servants who reviewed them, most — 54 per cent — landed in the “lower” category, with support from lobbyists.
“We identified 64 low- and medium- ranked applications that had hired registered lobbyists,” the report read.
Piccini later said he personally intervened to pick some of the “lower-scoring” recipients. Two separate analyses by The Trillium and The Star found that donor-linked groups received most of the cash, with $237 million collected by pro-Progressive Conservative unions and industry groups.
The twist: Opposition parties say it’s a “slush fund” — and are calling on Piccini to step down. Yet behind the scenes, correspondence shows some MPPs have privately lobbied for projects in their own ridings to receive cash — including one who asked for a meeting to squeeze in a late applicant and another who supported a project connected to a past donor.
Make no mistake: Such asks are far from rare, but in this case, Progressive Conservatives are crying hypocrisy — saying it “speaks volumes” about how the Opposition is playing in public versus in private.
What we know: In late July, the province opened a new call for project proposals. “Applications will be accepted for review on a continuous basis until October 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.,” the application read.
Last Wednesday, Liberal MPP Tyler Watt asked Piccini for a meeting to make the case for a late applicant.
The optics? Not ideal. Since the deadline had come and gone, some say Watt’s request appeared like an appeal to bend the rules — the same criticism his party has leveled at the Ford government. Earlier this week, he asked on X: “... Where is that so-called accountability and transparency you promised?”
Though Piccini hasn’t replied to the letter, he called Watt out on Monday. “I don’t know how members opposite, on the one hand, can say this is one of the worst funds ever, and then that very member asking the question writes to me to support a program in his own riding that was submitted late,” he said.
Asked about it outside the chamber, Watt’s staff quickly pulled him aside, saying they were “aware of this story” and would follow up. They never did.
Meanwhile: In another letter to Piccini last Wednesday, Ted Hsu voiced his “strong support” for Branded To Film, a group seeking funding in the sixth round. We’ve reviewed and verified the authenticity of Hsu’s correspondence.
The company is described as “a production company in Kingston, Ontario… creating a local skilled workforce.” In December, they pitched a $20-million film studio in the city’s east side — a project Kingston’s mayor said would be “big” for jobs and the local economy.
Here’s the wrinkle: Jason Joly, listed as one of the company’s four principals, donated $802.00 to Hsu’s leadership campaign in 2023, Elections Ontario records show.
“I think it speaks volume about the character of the members of the Opposition who try to smear a program that provides so much value to workers, while privately advocating for the same program,” one Progressive Conservative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“I just wish members acted with more integrity and appear less concerned about likes on Twitter and more concerned with supporting workers across Ontario.”
“Their stance on SDF funding appears inconsistent,” a second said. “While they publicly oppose the administration of the fund and critique its recipients, they have lent their own support to organizations with which they are connected.”
In the chamber: “I don’t ask for donations in return for favours,” Hsu said. “I get many smaller-sized donations because people believe in me, not because I dangle the public purse in front of them,” he added.
“Last election, I had the biggest margin of victory in the province — and I believe that you can try to do politics in a way that is fair, transparent and accountable.”
The party denied that any caucus member tried to pull strings in the process.
“Liberal MPPs who submitted letters of support for, or requested meetings regarding, Skills Development Fund applicants did so solely to ensure those applicants received consideration under the same selection process as everyone else,” a spokesperson said. “They exerted no control or influence over the funding process other than inviting the minister to consider their requests.”
Instead, they chalked it up to business as usual. “When this government allows friends, donors, and party insiders to qualify for millions in funding regardless of merit,” they added, “writing letters of support is the least Opposition MPPs can do.”
Liberal MPP John Fraser stood by Hsu. “It’s not inappropriate,” he said. “Our job is to connect people to the government.”
“Ted is as straight as they come,” Fraser added.
Pressed on claims of hypocrisy: “It’s bullshit — total, absolute, unadulterated bullshit.”
“Any MPP should feel free to advocate for organizations and opportunities in their community with any funds,” said NDP leader Marit Stiles. “Who’s making the decisions? Who holds the purse strings? To me, it’s night and day between that and a minister who has hands all over, deciding which projects get funded and which don’t.”
But on Hsu: “[The Liberals] had their hands all over this from the beginning,” she added, referencing the then-Partnership and Training Fund. “But truly, I don’t generally have a problem with an MPP advocating for a community based project in their riding.”
Another Tory didn’t seem too fussed about the whole thing. “The Skills Development Fund is a nothing burger. Lobbyists lobbied and the MPPs went to bat for their constituents,” they said.
“I’m not sure what we’re supposed to be upset about.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. Are you David Piccini — or someone who wrote to him? Let’s chat — and I’ll keep you anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
SCOOP — Two Liberal MPPs privately wrote to Labour Minister David Piccini in support of projects in their ridings seeking a slice of the Ford government’s $2.5-billion worker-training fund.
One pushed for a meeting to get a late applicant in the door, while another went to bat for a donor-linked project.
For background: The Skills Development Fund (SDF) has spiraled into a scandal over who’s getting the money — and why. Earlier this month, Shelley Spence, the province’s auditor, found that the fund “was not fair, transparent or accountable.” Even though less than half of successful applicants were graded “high” by the public servants who reviewed them, most — 54 per cent — landed in the “lower” category, with support from lobbyists.
“We identified 64 low- and medium- ranked applications that had hired registered lobbyists,” the report read.
Piccini later said he personally intervened to pick some of the “lower-scoring” recipients. Two separate analyses by The Trillium and The Star found that donor-linked groups received most of the cash, with $237 million collected by pro-Progressive Conservative unions and industry groups.
The twist: Opposition parties say it’s a “slush fund” — and are calling on Piccini to step down. Yet behind the scenes, correspondence shows some MPPs have privately lobbied for projects in their own ridings to receive cash — including one who asked for a meeting to squeeze in a late applicant and another who supported a project connected to a past donor.
Make no mistake: Such asks are far from rare, but in this case, Progressive Conservatives are crying hypocrisy — saying it “speaks volumes” about how the Opposition is playing in public versus in private.
What we know: In late July, the province opened a new call for project proposals. “Applications will be accepted for review on a continuous basis until October 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.,” the application read.
Last Wednesday, Liberal MPP Tyler Watt asked Piccini for a meeting to make the case for a late applicant.
The optics? Not ideal. Since the deadline had come and gone, some say Watt’s request appeared like an appeal to bend the rules — the same criticism his party has leveled at the Ford government. Earlier this week, he asked on X: “... Where is that so-called accountability and transparency you promised?”
Though Piccini hasn’t replied to the letter, he called Watt out on Monday. “I don’t know how members opposite, on the one hand, can say this is one of the worst funds ever, and then that very member asking the question writes to me to support a program in his own riding that was submitted late,” he said.
Asked about it outside the chamber, Watt’s staff quickly pulled him aside, saying they were “aware of this story” and would follow up. They never did.
Meanwhile: In another letter to Piccini last Wednesday, Ted Hsu voiced his “strong support” for Branded To Film, a group seeking funding in the sixth round. We’ve reviewed and verified the authenticity of Hsu’s correspondence.
The company is described as “a production company in Kingston, Ontario… creating a local skilled workforce.” In December, they pitched a $20-million film studio in the city’s east side — a project Kingston’s mayor said would be “big” for jobs and the local economy.
Here’s the wrinkle: Jason Joly, listed as one of the company’s four principals, donated $802.00 to Hsu’s leadership campaign in 2023, Elections Ontario records show.
“I think it speaks volume about the character of the members of the Opposition who try to smear a program that provides so much value to workers, while privately advocating for the same program,” one Progressive Conservative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“I just wish members acted with more integrity and appear less concerned about likes on Twitter and more concerned with supporting workers across Ontario.”
“Their stance on SDF funding appears inconsistent,” a second said. “While they publicly oppose the administration of the fund and critique its recipients, they have lent their own support to organizations with which they are connected.”
In the chamber: “I don’t ask for donations in return for favours,” Hsu said. “I get many smaller-sized donations because people believe in me, not because I dangle the public purse in front of them,” he added.
“Last election, I had the biggest margin of victory in the province — and I believe that you can try to do politics in a way that is fair, transparent and accountable.”
The party denied that any caucus member tried to pull strings in the process.
“Liberal MPPs who submitted letters of support for, or requested meetings regarding, Skills Development Fund applicants did so solely to ensure those applicants received consideration under the same selection process as everyone else,” a spokesperson said. “They exerted no control or influence over the funding process other than inviting the minister to consider their requests.”
Instead, they chalked it up to business as usual. “When this government allows friends, donors, and party insiders to qualify for millions in funding regardless of merit,” they added, “writing letters of support is the least Opposition MPPs can do.”
Liberal MPP John Fraser stood by Hsu. “It’s not inappropriate,” he said. “Our job is to connect people to the government.”
“Ted is as straight as they come,” Fraser added.
Pressed on claims of hypocrisy: “It’s bullshit — total, absolute, unadulterated bullshit.”
“Any MPP should feel free to advocate for organizations and opportunities in their community with any funds,” said NDP leader Marit Stiles. “Who’s making the decisions? Who holds the purse strings? To me, it’s night and day between that and a minister who has hands all over, deciding which projects get funded and which don’t.”
But on Hsu: “[The Liberals] had their hands all over this from the beginning,” she added, referencing the then-Partnership and Training Fund. “But truly, I don’t generally have a problem with an MPP advocating for a community based project in their riding.”
Another Tory didn’t seem too fussed about the whole thing. “The Skills Development Fund is a nothing burger. Lobbyists lobbied and the MPPs went to bat for their constituents,” they said.
“I’m not sure what we’re supposed to be upset about.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. Are you David Piccini — or someone who wrote to him? Let’s chat — and I’ll keep you anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.
SCOOP — Two Liberal MPPs privately wrote to Labour Minister David Piccini in support of projects in their ridings seeking a slice of the Ford government’s $2.5-billion worker-training fund.
One pushed for a meeting to get a late applicant in the door, while another went to bat for a donor-linked project.
For background: The Skills Development Fund (SDF) has spiraled into a scandal over who’s getting the money — and why. Earlier this month, Shelley Spence, the province’s auditor, found that the fund “was not fair, transparent or accountable.” Even though less than half of successful applicants were graded “high” by the public servants who reviewed them, most — 54 per cent — landed in the “lower” category, with support from lobbyists.
“We identified 64 low- and medium- ranked applications that had hired registered lobbyists,” the report read.
Piccini later said he personally intervened to pick some of the “lower-scoring” recipients. Two separate analyses by The Trillium and The Star found that donor-linked groups received most of the cash, with $237 million collected by pro-Progressive Conservative unions and industry groups.
The twist: Opposition parties say it’s a “slush fund” — and are calling on Piccini to step down. Yet behind the scenes, correspondence shows some MPPs have privately lobbied for projects in their own ridings to receive cash — including one who asked for a meeting to squeeze in a late applicant and another who supported a project connected to a past donor.
Make no mistake: Such asks are far from rare, but in this case, Progressive Conservatives are crying hypocrisy — saying it “speaks volumes” about how the Opposition is playing in public versus in private.
What we know: In late July, the province opened a new call for project proposals. “Applications will be accepted for review on a continuous basis until October 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.,” the application read.
Last Wednesday, Liberal MPP Tyler Watt asked Piccini for a meeting to make the case for a late applicant.
The optics? Not ideal. Since the deadline had come and gone, some say Watt’s request appeared like an appeal to bend the rules — the same criticism his party has leveled at the Ford government. Earlier this week, he asked on X: “... Where is that so-called accountability and transparency you promised?”
Though Piccini hasn’t replied to the letter, he called Watt out on Monday. “I don’t know how members opposite, on the one hand, can say this is one of the worst funds ever, and then that very member asking the question writes to me to support a program in his own riding that was submitted late,” he said.
Asked about it outside the chamber, Watt’s staff quickly pulled him aside, saying they were “aware of this story” and would follow up. They never did.
Meanwhile: In another letter to Piccini last Wednesday, Ted Hsu voiced his “strong support” for Branded To Film, a group seeking funding in the sixth round. We’ve reviewed and verified the authenticity of Hsu’s correspondence.
The company is described as “a production company in Kingston, Ontario… creating a local skilled workforce.” In December, they pitched a $20-million film studio in the city’s east side — a project Kingston’s mayor said would be “big” for jobs and the local economy.
Here’s the wrinkle: Jason Joly, listed as one of the company’s four principals, donated $802.00 to Hsu’s leadership campaign in 2023, Elections Ontario records show.
“I think it speaks volume about the character of the members of the Opposition who try to smear a program that provides so much value to workers, while privately advocating for the same program,” one Progressive Conservative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
“I just wish members acted with more integrity and appear less concerned about likes on Twitter and more concerned with supporting workers across Ontario.”
“Their stance on SDF funding appears inconsistent,” a second said. “While they publicly oppose the administration of the fund and critique its recipients, they have lent their own support to organizations with which they are connected.”
In the chamber: “I don’t ask for donations in return for favours,” Hsu said. “I get many smaller-sized donations because people believe in me, not because I dangle the public purse in front of them,” he added.
“Last election, I had the biggest margin of victory in the province — and I believe that you can try to do politics in a way that is fair, transparent and accountable.”
The party denied that any caucus member tried to pull strings in the process.
“Liberal MPPs who submitted letters of support for, or requested meetings regarding, Skills Development Fund applicants did so solely to ensure those applicants received consideration under the same selection process as everyone else,” a spokesperson said. “They exerted no control or influence over the funding process other than inviting the minister to consider their requests.”
Instead, they chalked it up to business as usual. “When this government allows friends, donors, and party insiders to qualify for millions in funding regardless of merit,” they added, “writing letters of support is the least Opposition MPPs can do.”
Liberal MPP John Fraser stood by Hsu. “It’s not inappropriate,” he said. “Our job is to connect people to the government.”
“Ted is as straight as they come,” Fraser added.
Pressed on claims of hypocrisy: “It’s bullshit — total, absolute, unadulterated bullshit.”
“Any MPP should feel free to advocate for organizations and opportunities in their community with any funds,” said NDP leader Marit Stiles. “Who’s making the decisions? Who holds the purse strings? To me, it’s night and day between that and a minister who has hands all over, deciding which projects get funded and which don’t.”
But on Hsu: “[The Liberals] had their hands all over this from the beginning,” she added, referencing the then-Partnership and Training Fund. “But truly, I don’t generally have a problem with an MPP advocating for a community based project in their riding.”
Another Tory didn’t seem too fussed about the whole thing. “The Skills Development Fund is a nothing burger. Lobbyists lobbied and the MPPs went to bat for their constituents,” they said.
“I’m not sure what we’re supposed to be upset about.”
Thank you for reading POLICORNER. Are you David Piccini — or someone who wrote to him? Let’s chat — and I’ll keep you anonymous. We’re back in your inbox on Monday.