Ford Government Cancels Speed Cameras Across Ontario

In two weeks, Ontario will begin removing speed cameras. The legislation banning their use, passed by Doug Ford’s government, will take effect on November 14.

Premier Ford argues that speed cameras are ineffective and do not change driver behavior. Instead, he proposes installing speed bumps, roundabouts, and flashing road signs. However, Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria admitted that the timeline for these alternatives remains unclear.

Municipalities have been promised temporary funding and additional signage, but no program details have been released. More than 20 mayors, including Burlington’s, opposed the move, urging the government to implement replacement measures first.
“Without them, we’ll have a serious gap in safety, especially near schools,” said Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward.

Opposition parties also criticized the decision. NDP Leader Marit Stiles warned that removing cameras before introducing alternatives could endanger pedestrians. Liberal MPP John Fraser called the move dangerous and contrary to research from SickKids Hospital and the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police.

Speed cameras have proven effective, reducing speeding and shifting the financial burden from taxpayers to offenders. Critics say the province is taking a step backward on road safety.