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Ontario bill doesn’t rule out privatization of water, legal opinion finds

Critics say allowing private ownership in water system could lead to higher costs, less accountability

Brett McKay, Local Journalism Initiative ReporterCarly Penrose
Brett McKay, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Carly Penrose

1 May 2026 • 5 min read

Ontario Premier Doug Ford drinks water as he speaks to journalists at Queen's Park
A legal opinion requested by the Canadian Union of Public Employees has found that despite the Ontario government's promises, a new bill does not close the door to privatization of municipal water services. (The Canadian Press/Chris Young)

Brett McKay, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Brett McKay, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Brett McKay is an Edmonton-based reporter specializing in investigative and data-driven stories. His work has appeared in The Tyee, APTN, The Breach, CTV News and Great West Media.

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