Panel advises on Ontario’s assets

An advisory panel set up to examine a possible sale of the LCBO, Hydro One and Ontario Power Generation says the province should retain ownership of all three crown corporations.

Ed clark, Chair of the Advisory Council on Government Assets, recommends Hydro One focus on electricity transmission and get out of the local distribution business. The panel estimates the move would bring in $2 billion in private sector investments. The panel also recommended some changes to the way alcohol is sold in Ontario. Clark suggests the LCBO sell 12 packs of beer instead of 6, but says cases of 24 should only be sold by the beer store.

The Ontario government created the panel in hopes of maximizing the value of its public assets. Premier Kathleen Wynne says she is pleased with the panels recommendations. Wynne said the money would be used to fund future transit and infrastructure projects.