Toronto Mayor Rob Ford is expected to ask city council next week to fast-track the renaming of the Toronto Island ferry terminal to honour Jack Layton.
The mayor said in a press release Thursday that he would ask city council to approve the renaming of the terminal to the "Jack Layton Ferry Terminal" in honour of the late Toronto councillor and federal NDP leader.
"Jack sat next to me in council when I was first elected, and he taught me a lot about politics," Ford said in a release. "Renaming the Toronto Island Ferry Terminal in memory of Jack is a fitting tribute."
Ford noted that Layton not only represented waterfront communities during his political career but was also a supporter of the Island Public School and helped save Island residents' homes.
Councillors are expected to consider a report from the mayor on June 6 or June 7.
Ford is also expected to recommend that council waive the customary two-year waiting period for the renaming, which is usually required.
Layton died of cancer in August, 2011 at age 61, just a few months after he led the NDP to a historic finish in the federal election. His death set off a national wave of grief that was particularly pronounced in Toronto, where he honed his political skills.
"Some of my fondest childhood memories are taking the ferry to the island and spending time with my family" said Toronto City Councillor Mike Layton. "I thank Mayor Ford and councillors (Pam) McConnell, (Paula) Fletcher, (Norm) Kelly and (Frances) Nunziata … for suggesting such a suitable and great honour to my father's memory."
Olivia Chow, Layton's widow, also thanked Ford for the tribute.
"Our family shared many beautiful and special times there, so we are very grateful to Mayor Ford and his staff for this tribute."
