Premier says he is "pro immigration."
Premier Doug Ford isn't apologizing for comments made yesterday at a press briefing in Tecumseh.
He told reporters yesterday that the province is experiencing a labour shortage and needs skilled people from across the world.
However, he then stated he only wanted "hard-working" people to come to the province.
"You come here like every other new Canadian. You work your tail off," Ford said. "If you think you're coming to collect the dole and sit around, it’s not going to happen. Go somewhere else."
Several politicians, including Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath and Liberal Leader Steven Del Duca, urged Ford to apologize for the remark.
During Question Period today, Ford refused to issue an apology, but noted he is "pro immigration."
"I have been pro immigration from day one," he said. "We are short 290,000 people. I was the only government who wrote letter after letter to the prime minister saying we need more people."
Health Minister Christine Elliott defended the Premier, saying he didn't intend to imply that immigrants don't work hard, but that he expects people who come here to work.
Grimsby, Port Colborne Honour Remembrance Day
St. Catharines Man Charged with Drug Dealing
Wainfleet Man Wins Lottery... 1st Time
MP Plans to Hear More Vaccine Injury Stories
Cash Registers Stolen in Thorold B&Es
Motel Fire Considered Suspicious
Frank Campion Named Niagara Regional Chair
Niagara Businesses Discuss Tariffs at Event