Ron Taverner won’t take over as Ontario Provincial Police Commissioner Monday as planned after concerns were raised about his connections to the Premier.
A statement from current Commissioner Brad Blair confirms Taverner’s appointment is being delayed to give time for a review of the hiring process for the position.
Blair asked for the probe, saying there was a perception that there had been political interference in the hiring.
Blair indicates he’s willing to step down from the Interim Commissioner position, saying he “understand[s] the preference for an alternative Interim Commissioner and will cooperate in every respect.”
NDP Leader Andrea Horwath also called for the review.
She says she’s relieved Taverner won’t take over the position.
Horwath alleges this confirms concerns about possible political interference in the hiring were correct.
A former OPP Commissioner, Chris Lewis, alleged Taverner was chosen by Premier Doug Ford instead of by an independent commission.
(Picture: Brad Blair)
