Ford fired Towhey over rehab advice: reports
Posted May 24, 2013 6:54 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
TORONTO – Reports say Mayor Rob Ford fired his chief of staff, Mark Towhey, after Towhey urged Ford to get help.
An unnamed source told the Toronto Sun Towhey had been pushing Ford for a long time to deal with his personal problems, while an unnamed source told the CBC the mayor needed to “go away and get help.”
Meanwhile, The Globe and Mail reported the plan was to put the mayor on a plane to a rehab centre and then issue a statement afterwards.
Towhey was fired Thursday and left City Hall escorted by security. He spoke briefly to reporters on his way out and said it was not his decision.
He spoke briefly to reporters on his way out and said it was not his decision.
“I am no longer the chief of staff. I did not resign.”
Towhey did not discuss what he has told Ford to do regarding drug use allegations.
“My conversations with the mayor are between the mayor and I.”
Deputy Mayor Doug Holyday said he has not been told why Towhey was let go.
“I guess a difference of opinion between him and the mayor — that certainly would be one of things that would precipitate it.”
Coun. Doug Ford did not specify why Towhey was fired.
“We don’t discuss personnel issues with anyone but he’s a good guy.”
Coun. Jaye Robinson, a member of the mayor’s executive committee, is frustrated.
“It’s not a strategic move at this time to fire your chief of staff when we’re dealing with these allegations at city hall,” she said.
“It’s a train crash. It’s just one thing after the next. It’s not even daily anymore, it’s hourly. It’s becoming very disruptive.”
Earl Provost, deputy chief of staff, will assume the role of acting chief of staff.
Ford’s office released a statement that said:
Effective immediately, Mark Towhey is no longer working in the Office of the Mayor.
“Mr. Towhey has been a intricate part of the Mayor’s Office and has made many valuable contributions.
The Mayor thanks Mr. Towhey for his valuable service and wishes him the very best in his future endeavours.
Earl Provost, Deputy Chief of Staff, will assume the role of Acting Chief of Staff until further notice.
