NDP Youth Opportunities critic urges Ford to save CNE for future years

York South—Weston — NDP Youth Opportunities critic Faisal Hassan is calling on the Ford government to step in and provide the financial support needed to ensure the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is able to survive the financial hit incurred by the pandemic.

“As the Official Opposition critic for Youth Opportunities, I am alarmed that the future viability of the CNE is at risk. Families have enjoyed the CNE for 142 years and over 1.5 million visitors annually have ensured that it is a massive economic engine for Ontario, with $128 million dollars generated," Hassan said.

"Young people benefit by the 4,700 jobs the CNE provides each year. With 20 per cent of summer jobs going to youth with special needs, it is a valuable contribution to the community."

The NDP is urging Doug Ford to work with all levels of government to provide the financial support needed to ensure the CNE doesn’t close its gates forever.

"Particularly as part of a positive post-pandemic economic plan, we must do everything we can to make sure the CNE continues in the summer of 2022, and for years to come,” Hassan said.