In brief
Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced on Wednesday that an investigation will be conducted regarding a controversial lease signed with European wellness company Therme for a spa and water park on Toronto's waterfront. This decision follows revelations from a New York Times report suggesting that Therme misrepresented its operational experience during the bidding process.
The lengthy negotiation culminated in a nearly century-long lease last year, allowing the Austrian firm to develop an artificial island in Lake Ontario, near downtown Toronto. "Upon hearing these allegations, I immediately directed the minister and the deputy to conduct a thorough review,” Ford stated, emphasizing the need for transparency and compliance. He asserted the aim is to ensure that the contract meets integrity standards. Reports indicate that Therme depicted a greater operational capacity than true; while listing four to six facilities in its proposal, the company only has one wellness center in Romania.
