News

Ontario Expanding Booster Eligibility to More Ontarians

Eligibility Will Expand Gradually Based on Age and Risk to Provide Extra Layer of Protection Against the Delta Variant

The Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, is expanding eligibility for booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to additional groups of high-risk individuals starting November 6, 2021, providing them with an extra layer of protection against the Delta variant. Over the coming months, Ontario is also prepared to gradually roll out booster doses...

Ontario Supporting Indigenous and Emerging Artists

New investment helping arts organizations and artists safely reconnect with their audiences during COVID-19.

The Ontario government is increasing support for the province’s arts sector with a $5-million grant program administered through the Ontario Arts Council. The funding will create more opportunities for Indigenous artists and arts organizations to reconnect with their audiences and recover from the impacts of COVID-19 and help new emerging artists across all disciplines during a pivotal stage...

Ontario to Raise Minimum Wage to $15 an Hour

Government working for workers by enhancing wages and take-home pay

As part of the 2021 Fall Economic Statement, the Ontario government will introduce legislation that, if passed, would raise the general minimum wage from $14.35 to $15.00 per hour effective January 1, 2022. Under the proposed changes, the special minimum wage rate for liquor servers would be eliminated and they would be entitled to the general minimum wage. Students under 18, homeworkers and hunting, fishing and wilderness guides...

Ontario Marks End of Wildland Fire Season

Today officially marks the end of Ontario’s 2021 wildland fire season.

“Ontario’s fire rangers and support staff demonstrated extraordinary courage and dedication as they overcame the hazards of an unusually hot and dry fire season,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry, and Minister of Indigenous Affairs. “They have made Ontario proud as they adapted to unprecedented challenges to protect our natural resources, at-risk communities, and businesses.”

Ontario Recognizes Sixth Annual Treaties Recognition Week

Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs, issued the following statement on Treaties Recognition Week:

"This week, Ontario is marking the sixth annual Treaties Recognition Week by encouraging students and the public to learn about treaties from diverse Indigenous perspectives and supporting greater understanding of the importance of treaties in Ontario.

Our government is working together with Indigenous and education partners across Ontario to host virtual events and share treaty education...