The Ontario Works Act, 1997 (the OWA), proclaimed in force in 1998, provides a legislative framework for social assistance in Ontario. The OWA establishes a compulsory program colloquially known as “workfare” whereby eligible recipients of social assistance participate in community placements. The stated purposes of the OWA include: recognition of individual responsibility and promotion of self-reliance through employment; provision of temporary financial assistance to those most in need while they satisfy obligations to become and stay employed; effective service for people in need of assistance; and accountability to the taxpayers of Ontario. The appellant represents an organization which has actively opposed the introduction and implementation of workfare in Ontario.