Bas Balkissoon, a name synonymous with integrity, determination, and community service, has left an indelible mark on Ontario’s political landscape. Born around 1952 in Trinidad and Tobago, Balkissoon’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact one individual can have on a community, a city, and a province. His journey from a young immigrant of Indian descent to a respected and influential politician in Ontario is as inspiring as it is motivational.
Bas Balkissoon: Early Life and Advocacy for Fair Taxes
Bas Balkissoon’s early life in Trinidad and Tobago shaped his values and perspectives. Growing up in a multicultural environment, he developed a deep sense of community and social justice. These values would later drive his efforts to challenge and improve the systems that affected everyday people.
After moving to Canada, Balkissoon quickly became an active member of his community in Scarborough, Ontario. His rise to prominence began with his leadership of the Scarborough Homeowners Alliance For Fair Taxes, an organization that fought for fair property tax assessments.
This advocacy group was instrumental in challenging the province’s property assessment system, which many believed was unfairly burdening homeowners. Balkissoon’s dedication to fairness and equity garnered him widespread respect and laid the foundation for his future political career.
Serving as a City Councillor: A Voice for Accountability
In 1988, Bas Balkissoon took his first step into public office when he was elected as a city councillor in Scarborough’s Ward 13. His tenure as a city councillor was marked by a commitment to transparency, accountability, and the well-being of his constituents. These principles guided him through his work and earned him a reputation as a dedicated public servant.
When the city of Toronto amalgamated in 1997, Balkissoon was elected to the new Toronto City Council. It was here that he made one of his most significant contributions to the city: uncovering a controversial computer leasing deal between the city and MFP Financial.
As chair of the city’s Audit Committee, Balkissoon played a crucial role in bringing this issue to light, leading to the formation of the Toronto Computer Leasing Inquiry. His unwavering commitment to accountability demonstrated his integrity and dedication to protecting the public interest.
During his time on the Toronto City Council, Balkissoon also served on the Police Services Board, where he wasn’t afraid to challenge authority. He was known for his critical stance on issues related to the Toronto Police Chief and the Toronto Police Association, advocating for fairness and justice in the policing system. Balkissoon’s willingness to speak truth to power further solidified his reputation as a principled and courageous leader.
Provincial Politics: Championing Community and Social Services
Bas Balkissoon’s successful career as a city councillor paved the way for his entry into provincial politics. In a by-election held on November 24, 2005, he was elected as the Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for the riding of Scarborough—Rouge River.
This victory was not just a personal achievement but a significant milestone for the community he represented. As a Liberal Party candidate, Balkissoon won with an impressive 58% of the vote, a clear indication of the trust and confidence his constituents had in him.
Over the next decade, Bas Balkissoon continued to serve the people of Scarborough—Rouge River with distinction. He was re-elected in 2007, 2011, and 2014, each time with overwhelming support. His success at the polls was a reflection of his unwavering commitment to his constituents and his ability to address their needs and concerns effectively.
During his time in the Ontario legislature, Bas Balkissoon was appointed to several important Parliamentary Assistant roles, where he made significant contributions to the province. As the Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services, he worked on initiatives to improve public safety and the correctional system.
His tenure as Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care was marked by efforts to enhance healthcare services and ensure that Ontarians received the care they deserved. Additionally, his work with the Ministry of Community and Social Services focused on supporting vulnerable populations and promoting social justice.
In 2011, Balkissoon’s leadership qualities were further recognized when he was named Deputy Speaker and Chair of the Committee of the Whole House. In this role, he played a key part in maintaining order and facilitating meaningful discussions in the legislature. His ability to bring people together and his dedication to democratic processes were evident in his work.
A Legacy of Integrity and Service
Bas Balkissoon’s career in politics is a shining example of what can be achieved through integrity, dedication, and a genuine desire to serve others. His journey from a young immigrant to a respected politician in Ontario is an inspiring story of perseverance and commitment to public service.
Throughout his career, Bas Balkissoon remained true to his principles, consistently advocating for fairness, accountability, and justice. His work as a city councillor, MPP, and Deputy Speaker demonstrated his deep commitment to improving the lives of the people he represented.
Whether it was fighting for fair taxes, uncovering corruption, or championing community and social services, Balkissoon approached every challenge with determination and a strong sense of responsibility.
In March 2016, Bas Balkissoon resigned from the Ontario legislature, marking the end of an illustrious career in public service. His resignation was met with respect and admiration from colleagues and constituents alike, who recognized the significant impact he had made during his time in office.
Also Read:Harry Bains: The Immigrant Leader Transforming Labour in Canada