Toronto – Arab Canada News

As the date of the Canadian federal elections approaches on April 28, three main issues are at the forefront of voters’ priorities in the city of Toronto: the housing crisis, improving public transportation, and growing concerns about public safety.

According to an analysis by political and economic experts who spoke to CP24, voters in Canada’s largest city are looking for realistic and sustainable plans to address the sharp rise in housing prices, improve transportation infrastructure, and provide effective solutions for violent crime and drug issues.

Housing: A Crisis That Requires an Urgent Response

Dr. Mark Hancock, a professor of urban policy at the University of Toronto, states that “housing is the undisputed number one issue,” pointing out that rental and ownership prices have exceeded the financial capacity of many families and young people.

The major parties are competing to offer election promises to resolve this crisis, with the Liberals pledging to inject significant funding into cooperative housing projects, while the Conservatives promised to reduce taxes on construction and incentivize municipalities to expedite the granting of permits.

Public Transportation: A Deteriorating Network and Long Wait Times

As for transportation, experts believe it is no less important, as Toronto suffers from severe traffic congestion and slow expansion of the public transportation network.

The election promises include funding for new TTC lines, expanding GO Transit services, and updating aging infrastructure. Daniel Beilin, a researcher at the Montreal Institute for Political Studies, emphasizes that “investment in transportation not only serves passengers but also supports economic growth and enhances social justice.”

Public Safety: Gun Crimes and Fentanyl Under Scrutiny

The recurring incidents related to firearms and drugs have raised increasing concern among Toronto residents, particularly in neighborhoods like Scarborough and Jane-Finch.

The Liberals have pledged to expand community prevention programs, while the Conservatives promised to tighten penalties for weapon-related crimes and increase police funding. Samantha Greaves, president of the Toronto Neighborhood Associations, confirmed that “people do not feel safe, and the next government must address this issue seriously.”

Sub-Issues: Climate Change and Immigration

Although the previous three issues are the most prominent, topics such as climate change and immigration policies also attract the attention of large segments of the city's population, especially among young voters.

Voter turnout in Toronto is expected to be crucial in determining the shape of the next government, given the large number of seats the city and its surroundings represent in the Canadian House of Commons.