News Releases

Health Department celebrates National Non-Smoking Week, January 21 to 27

Whitby, Ontario - National Non-Smoking Week is January 21 to 27 and Durham Region Health Department will celebrate by reminding everyone that it’s never too late to quit smoking.

National Non-Smoking Week has been recognized across Canada for more than 40 years. The week is observed annually to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use and to encourage smokers to quit smoking. Research has shown that tobacco is the biggest preventable cause of death in Canada, with approximately 16...

Regional Chair statement on the passing of the Honourable Ed Broadbent

Whitby, Ontario – The following statement is being issued on behalf of John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham:

“On behalf of the Region of Durham and its residents, I offer my deepest condolences on the passing of the Honourable Ed Broadbent. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.

Among his many accomplishments, Mr. Broadbent served as a member of Parliament for the Oshawa-Whitby riding; was the Leader of the New...

Major milestone reached in GO Extension to Bowmanville

Whitby, Ontario – The following statement is being issued on behalf of John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham:

“The Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks issued a Notice to Proceed following the completion of the Transit Project Assessment Process (TPAP) for the Lakeshore GO East Extension to Bowmanville. The TPAP is an environmental assessment that ensures any potential negative impacts to the natural, social, cultural and...

Regional Chair brings New Year’s greetings

Whitby, Ontario – The following statement is being issued on behalf of John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham:

“The start of a new calendar year is a new beginning. It is a time to be optimistic about the future, but also a time to reflect on the past year; to acknowledge the challenges we overcame, celebrate what we accomplished and grow from our learned experiences.

In 2023, we saw incredible growth as our population reached 745,000 people....

Durham Regional Council approves 2024 Business Plans and Budget Guideline

Whitby, Ontario – On December 20, Durham Regional approved a 2024 Property Tax Supported Business Plans and Budget Guideline of a 2.5 per cent increase for the Durham Regional Police Services Board and a 5.0 per cent increase for all other Regional programs and services including a minimum of 0.5 per cent dedicated to fund anticipated property tax impacts resulting from Ontario Bill 23, More Homes Built Faster Act, 2022, Ontario Bill 134, Affordable Homes and Goods Jobs Act, 2023 and related...