Exploring the Ford government’s sudden decision to cancel Peel Region split: Is there a possibility of a call?

In a dramatic turn of events in early December 2023, the Ford government’s plan to dissolve Peel Region was on the brink of being cancelled, leaving John Livey, chair of the Peel Region Transition Board, out of the loop. Despite his attempts to get a meeting with the government to discuss the decision, Livey was met with silence.

Text messages obtained by Global News revealed the frustration and lack of communication between Livey and government officials. It wasn’t until four days after his initial request that Livey finally received a reply, promising a call from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

The behind-the-scenes story unfolded as the government failed to engage its own expert panel in the decision-making process. Eventually, after an intervention from Livey and the premier’s office, the government settled on a watered-down plan for the Region of Peel, granting some powers to its three members: Brampton, Caledon, and Mississauga.

The initial plan to dissolve Peel Region, announced by Premier Doug Ford in May 2023, faced pushback from various stakeholders and municipal leaders. As discussions about reversing the plan gained momentum, Livey and the transition board found themselves in the dark until they were brought back into the fold.

The government’s decision to renege on its promise to dissolve Peel Region was announced on December 13, following a series of intense discussions and negotiations. The transition board, which billed the Region of Peel $1.5 million for its work, will continue its efforts until at least 2025, with the possibility of further directives from the government.