The opposition parties stepped up the pressure Tuesday on Premier Dalton McGuinty to demand the resignation of federal Liberal leadership candidate Gerard Kennedy, who they accused of shirking his duties to his constituents while he tries to raise his profile outside Ontario.
Both the Conservatives and New Democrats complained that Kennedy is not serving his Toronto constituents by travelling across Canada to boost his leadership bid.
But McGuinty defended Kennedy, telling the legislature he'll leave it up to the former education minister to decide exactly when to resign his seat.
"Mr. Kennedy remains very much devoted to his responsibilities,'' McGuinty said. "He remains very much committed to his constituents. Eventually, Mr. Kennedy and his constituents will come to an arrangement regarding his departure.''
The premier noted Kennedy is still active in his Parkdale-High Park riding in Toronto's west end.
"Just last week, a project which he's been working on actively for some time now came to fruition,'' McGuinty said. "He announced the redevelopment of St. Joseph's Hospital here in Toronto.''
Kennedy said Tuesday he will eventually resign but not until he feels the time is right. (source)
