Liberal Government Not Renewing Critical Ontario Ombudsman's Contract

TORONTO -The provincial Liberal government, which is frequently criticized by Ombudsman Andre Marin, pictured, said it will not renew Mr. Marin's contract. Mr. Marin is, however, free to reapply for his job. Premier Dalton McGuinty announced the move yesterday, telling reporters Mr. Marin's job will be open for competition. "I think the fair thing to do in the circumstances going forward is to have an opportunity for folks who already have these jobs to reapply and for others who are interested on the outside to get a shot at this as well," Mr. McGuinty said. Opposition critics were skeptical of Mr. McGuinty's explanation. "Mr. Marin scares the daylights out of the Liberal government," said New Democrat MPP Peter Kormos.