Ontario Premier Doug Ford to Scrap Speed Cameras in Suburban Vote-Driven Move

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" on residents. He alleged that municipalities use the devices as a means to generate revenue rather than improve public safety. "This is a cash grab off taxpayers," Ford said. "Nothing more, nothing less." The Ontario premier also offered to demonstrate how to slow traffic without the need for speed cameras. "I will stand in an area where you want to calm the traffic, and I'll show you how to calm the traffic instantly," he said. However, road safety activists have expressed concern over the decision, citing data that shows speed cameras are effective in reducing accidents and fatalities on Ontario roads. "Speed kills, and we know that speed cameras work," said Toronto Mayor John Tory. "We urge councillors to keep these life-saving devices in place." The use of speed cameras has been a contentious issue in Ontario for years. The devices use radar or lidar technology to detect speeding vehicles and issue fines to drivers who exceed the posted speed limit. While some argue that speed cameras are an effective tool for improving public safety, others claim they are nothing more than a revenue-generating measure. The ban on speed cameras is likely to have significant implications for road safety in Ontario. According to data from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, speed-related crashes account for nearly 20% of all fatal collisions in the province. By removing speed cameras, Ford's government may be putting drivers at greater risk of injury or death. Ford's decision also raises questions about the role of municipalities in generating revenue through fines and penalties. While some argue that speed cameras are a necessary tool for improving public safety, others see them as an opportunity for municipalities to collect additional funds. The ban on speed cameras is set to take effect in the coming months, pending approval from the Ontario legislature. The decision is likely to lead to further debate and discussion about road safety and the role of technology in improving public safety. Background: Speed cameras have been used in Ontario since 2007 as a means to improve public safety on roads. While some argue that they are an effective tool for reducing accidents and fatalities, others claim they are nothing more than a revenue-generating measure. Additional Perspectives: "We're disappointed by the decision to ban speed cameras," said Mark King, executive director of the Ontario Road Safety Coalition. "Speed cameras have been proven to be effective in reducing accidents and fatalities on our roads." "This is a reckless decision that puts drivers at greater risk of injury or death," said Toronto Mayor John Tory. Current Status: The ban on speed cameras is set to take effect in the coming months, pending approval from the Ontario legislature. The decision has sparked criticism from road safety activists and is likely to lead to further debate and discussion about road safety and the role of technology in improving public safety. *Reporting by Theguardian.*