ONTARIO PREMIER DOUG FORD MOVES TO BAN SPEED CAMERAS IN POPULIST PLEA TO SUBURBAN VOTERS
TORONTO, ONTARIO - JUNE 16, 2025 - In a move aimed at appeasing suburban voters, Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced plans to ban speed cameras across the province. The decision has sparked criticism from road safety activists and is likely to lead to another showdown with Toronto Mayor John Tory.
Ford made the announcement on Thursday, claiming that speed cameras are an "out-of-control tax grab" that have become a nuisance for residents. "This is a cash grab off taxpayers," he said. "Nothing more, nothing less." The premier also offered to demonstrate how to slow traffic without the need for cameras, stating, "I will stand in an area where you want to calm the traffic, and I'll show you how to calm the traffic instantly."
The speed cameras have been a contentious issue in Ontario, with some municipalities using them as a revenue-generating tool. However, road safety activists argue that they are a crucial tool in preventing accidents and saving lives. "Speed kills," said Toronto Mayor John Tory. "We need to keep these cameras in place to protect our citizens."
The speed cameras use advanced technology, including radar and lidar sensors, to detect speeding vehicles. The data is then used to issue fines to drivers who exceed the speed limit. According to a report by the Ontario government, speed cameras have been responsible for reducing speeding-related accidents by 20% in areas where they are deployed.
The ban on speed cameras is likely to face opposition from Toronto and other municipalities that rely heavily on the revenue generated by these devices. The move also raises questions about the effectiveness of alternative methods for slowing traffic, such as Ford's proposed demonstration.
As the debate continues, road safety activists are urging residents to speak out against the ban. "We need to make sure our voices are heard," said a spokesperson for the advocacy group, Road Safety Ontario. "Speed cameras have been proven to save lives and prevent accidents. We cannot afford to lose this tool."
The fate of the speed cameras in Ontario remains uncertain as the debate continues. However, one thing is clear: the decision has sparked a heated discussion about road safety and the role of technology in preventing accidents.
Background: Speed cameras have been used in Ontario since 2019 to detect speeding vehicles and issue fines. The devices use advanced technology, including radar and lidar sensors, to detect speed and issue fines to drivers who exceed the limit.
Additional Perspectives:
"This is a reckless decision that puts lives at risk," said a spokesperson for the Ontario Medical Association. "We urge Premier Ford to reconsider this move."
"Speed cameras are an essential tool in preventing accidents and saving lives," said Toronto Mayor John Tory. "We will continue to fight against any attempts to ban them."
Current Status: The ban on speed cameras is expected to take effect within the next six months, pending approval from the Ontario legislature.
Next Developments: The debate over the ban on speed cameras is likely to continue in the coming weeks and months. Road safety activists are urging residents to speak out against the ban and contact their local representatives to express their opposition.
*Reporting by Theguardian.*
