Today, Interim Leader John Fraser called on Premier Ford to request that the Integrity Commissioner conduct a review of all public appointments made since his government came to office.
The recent revelations of nepotism and improper influence have led to at least three public appointments being revoked and the Premier’s Chief of Staff resigning. It is important that the public appointment process be clear, fair and without improper influence.
Since coming to office, the Premier and his government have track record of rewarding their friends. The Premier’s first hires were $350,000 a year jobs for the former PC party president and his campaign tour director. Then the Premier tried to appoint his friend as the Commissioner of the OPP and the list goes on.
The Commissioner’s recommendations in the appointment of Ron Taverner have been ignored by the government.
MPP Fraser will be writing the Integrity Commissioner with respect to possible violations of the Member’s Integrity Act and the Public Services of Ontario Act.
A review by the independent officer of the legislature will restore public trust. An internal review by the government will not.
This isn’t a Dean French problem, it’s a Doug Ford problem.