Orientation day for first-time MPPs at Queen’s Park

School is almost out for the summer for students across Ontario, but orientation is just getting underway for the recently-elected class of first-time MPPs at Queen’s Park.

“Less than 2,000 Ontario citizens have had the privilege of serving as MPPs since Confederation, so we’re very honoured,” said Todd MCarthy, PC MPP-Elect for Durham.

There are some 30 first time MPPs who emerged victorious in the June 2 election. Just like the first day in any new job, there is a lot for them to learn about how the legislature works.

“The really great staff here explained a lot of things and we’re going to find out all the things we need to get started as soon as possible,” said Ted Hsu, Liberal MPP-Elect for Kingston and the Islands.

“We got orientations on procurement, on membership obligations, we heard from the Integrity Commissioner,” added Kristyn Wong-Tam, NDP MPP-Elect for Toronto Centre.

Many of the new faces at Queen’s Park have never worked in government before. One notable exception is Wong-Tam. She was elected as an MPP after spending a dozen years at Toronto City Hall. The veteran politician is already starting to notice some similarities.

“There’s certainly different protocols but I think the structure is the same,” said Wong-Tam. “You’ve got a clerk of the Legislative Assembly that’s going to guide us through the process. They are the protectors of this precinct, this building and the democratic process, so very similar to the function of the clerk at city council.”

Despite all that prior municipal government experience, Wong-Tam isn’t interested in throwing her hat in the ring to replace Andrea Horwath as leader of the NDP.

“I will wait for that process to unfold and, no, I’m not going to be standing for the leadership,” said Wong-Tam.

Brand-new PC MPPs may be angling for some top jobs during their first days at the legislature. Graydon Smith is a newly-elected Conservative from Parry Sound-Muskoka. He previously served as mayor of Bracebridge but is mum on his cabinet desires.

“I’m not worried about that right now, I just want to get to work for all the good folks in my riding,” said Smith.

It’s the same story for Todd McCarthy who was elected to the PC benches from Durham.

“I want to serve as the MPP for Durham and be a member of the PC team led by Premier Ford,” said a smiling McCarthy.