McGuinty in no rush for KW byelex

Premier Dalton McGuinty suggests he’s in no hurry to call a byelection in Kitchener-Waterloo.

It would replace Conservative MPP Elizabeth Witmer, and possibly give the Liberals a majority government.

McGuinty was at Blammo Games in Toronto this morning to discuss the Ontario budget, but talks quickly turned to his plan for Witmer’s riding. He has up to six months to call the byelection, but says people there should have time to adjust to the fact their MPP has resigned after more than 20 years.

“I haven’t heard a single person say negative thing about Elizabeth Witmer… in terms of her record, past record of public service or all the skills, .so I think we have to let folks adjust to that new reality when it comes to these kinds of things, not to move too quickly.”

McGuinty also insists he had no ulterior motives when he appointed Witmer to the top post at the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board. Both the NDP and Tories disagree. His Liberals are one seat short of a majority.

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