Does the Therme Ontario Place Development pass the sniff test?

On the Ledge – April 17, 2025
Host: Dave Trafford
Guests: Kathleen Wynne, Tim Hudak, Keith Leslie, John Wright

As Canadians look ahead to a long Easter weekend, the On the Ledge panel tackles the aftermath of the French-language leaders’ debate and the political blowback from the Ontario Place Therme spa deal.

They analyze the debate performances of Carney, Poilievre, Singh, and Blanchet, with particular focus on tone, leadership posture, and policy signals—especially around energy, Indigenous consultation, and economic direction.

The conversation also pivots to the explosive New York Times investigation exposing questionable claims by Therme Group, and what that means for Doug Ford’s government, Infrastructure Ontario, and the integrity of public procurement. The episode closes on what interprovincial cooperation could mean post-election—and why Indigenous governments must be included in Canada's economic vision.

Key Takeaways:

• Debate Highlights: Mark Carney held his own despite weaker French; Poilievre surprised by staying calm and policy-focused; Blanchet was passionate but seen as marginal to national issues.
• Tone Matters: Multiple panelists noted voters often respond more to a leader’s demeanor than to their words—Carney’s composure and Poilievre’s restraint were seen as net positives.
• Therme Scandal Fallout: The New York Times revealed Therme misrepresented itself, shaking trust in the Ontario Place redevelopment deal. The panel criticized both the lack of due diligence and media/political inaction before the exposé.
• Infrastructure Ontario Critique: IO’s role in multiple procurement debacles—including Metrolinx and Ontario Place—came under fire, with calls for greater transparency and accountability.
• Permitting and Speed vs. Process: Ford’s push to streamline permits is seen as a risk to environmental and Indigenous processes if not balanced carefully.
• Post-Election Unity Challenge: The panel underscores the need for intergovernmental cooperation on economic priorities—labor mobility, trade, and Indigenous partnerships top the list.