A vocal critic of Mayor Rob Ford will no longer sit on executive committee following a shakeup at city hall.
According to a statement from the mayor, Coun. Jaye Robinson is no longer the chair of the community development and recreation committee. Robinson will be replaced by Coun. Anthony Perruzza effective immediately.
The reasons for Robinson’s departure are not known, but the Don Valley West councillor has been critical of the mayor’s handling of a scandal over an alleged video that reportedly shows him smoking from a glass pipe.
Last week, Robinson told CP24 that the mayor should either address the scandal head-on or temporarily step aside, drawing criticism from Coun. Doug Ford who lashed out at Robinson for missing a recent civic appointments committee due to illness.
Speaking with CP24 Monday evening, Doug Ford said Robinson’s departure from executive committee has nothing to do with her recent criticism of the mayor and everything to do with the need for fresh blood.
"It played nothing into the decision. There were a lot of people critical, not just Jaye Robinson," Ford said. "There is always a shuffle in politics and we were overdue for a shuffle. The mayor has kept the same people from day one and it was just time for some new people."
In his statement, Ford thanked Robinson for her service and said the change in leadership would help his administration deliver results for the taxpayers of Toronto.
In his statement, Ford also announced that Coun Paul Ainslie would no longer chair the government management committee and would instead take over leadership of the parks and environment committee. Coun. Norm Kelly will now chair the government committee in Ainslie’s place, according to the statement.
“These changes will help my administration continue delivering results for the taxpayers of Toronto,” the statement reads. “My administration is committed to delivering customer service excellence, openness and transparency, keeping taxes low and reducing the size and cost of government.”
Robinson, who was the only female member of the 13-person executive committee, is expected to speak with reporters about her departure at 9 a.m. tomorrow.
In a statement released Monday evening, Perruzza said he looked forward to his new role.
"I am pleased that the mayor has added a different voice to the city’s executive committee," he said. "I look forward to rolling up my sleeves and working with fellow committee members on ensuring that the unique needs of our diverse communities are met."