Did you know, OREA’s government relations department is a small but mighty team of two? As a department, our mandate is to create an environment at Queen’s Park that is favourable to REALTORS® and real estate. However, our advocacy efforts would not be complete without the work of our committed volunteers. There are many ways to get involved and ensure a strong REALTOR® presence at the provincial legislature.
First, OREA depends on the work of our Government Relations Committee. This year our committee consists of 14 members from across Ontario and is chaired by Tom Lebour, a REALTOR® from Mississauga. The committee helps determine priority advocacy areas and advises the GR department on the key issues of the day. Furthermore, committee members will often meet with their local MPPs or even sit on government panels that impact our industry.
At a more local level, many boards also have their own government relations committees and local PAC Chairs. Each year, many PAC Chairs will attend OREA’s political affairs conference (PAC) and meet with their local MPPs at Queen’s Park to brief them on issues that are important to Ontario real estate. In 2013, we secured meetings with over 70 Ontario MPPs!
Most recently, REALTORS® have mobilized to show their support for Bill 188, The Tax Fairness for Realtors Act, 2014. Since this initiative was launched, over 6,000 individuals have taken action and written letters to the Minister of Finance and their MPPs.
On behalf of OREA’s government relations team we thank all our volunteers for their ongoing support.
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