City of Toronto cancels Canada Day party at Nathan Phillips Square

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“Resource shortages” are blamed for the city’s decision to forego Canada Day celebrations in Nathan Phillips Square.

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A city official confirmed the news on Tuesday after plans to use the plaza were released this year during volunteer recruitment and informational sessions.

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City spokesman Alex Burke said other events are taking place “across the city” including the “signature fireworks display” in Ashbridges Bay. Burke said more information about the city’s Canada Day program will be released in the coming weeks.

The news came the same day that the The city surveyed residents and businesses “urging the government of Canada to live up to its funding commitment to the people of Toronto.”

“The city requires the federal government’s promised $235 million in COVID-19 pandemic support for the 2022 city budget to meet the province’s pledge,” the press release said.

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“During the 2021 federal election, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a personal commitment to helping Toronto navigate the pandemic. So far, the Canadian government has not provided this promised funding. Without federal support, city funding for future frontline services will be compromised.”

The city set one up campaign websitean automated email to contact their MP and other ways to raise the issue with the federal government.

This year’s city budget, approved by the city council in February, was balanced on the assumption that the province and government would contribute a combined $933 million to meet pandemic-related deficits.

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