Runciman appointed interim PC Leader

Ontario PC Party
News Release

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Queen's Park - Ontario PC Caucus Chair Frank Klees (Newmarket-Aurora) today announced the appointment of veteran MPP Bob Runciman (Leeds-Grenville) as Interim Leader of the Ontario PC Party.

"After a challenging few weeks, our Party is now focused on moving forward," said Klees. "Since taking over as Interim Opposition Leader in 2007, Bob has provided strong, competent leadership in the Legislature.

We're confident he will continue to do so now, both inside and outside the House."

Runciman, who has served as Interim Opposition Leader since the 2007 provincial election, succeeds Outgoing PC Leader John Tory, who announced his resignation from the role on March 6, 2009.

The Eastern Ontario MPP is a 28 year veteran of the Legislature and has served in five different Cabinet portfolios, under three previous PC Premiers. In Opposition, Runciman has served as Chief Whip and House Leader. He has also chaired three Legislative Committees and was previously Interim Opposition Leader for six months in 2005.

"It's an enormous honour to lead this great Party, even for a brief period of time," said Runciman. "It puts me in pretty good company - I would like to thank my Caucus colleagues for the confidence they've placed in me. We will continue working hard to hold Dalton McGuinty to account for his failed leadership."

Runciman thanked Tory his years of service as Leader.

"It would be tough to find anyone who has worked longer or harder on behalf of our Party and the people of Ontario," said Runciman. "We wish John well for the future and hope he will remain actively involved as we build towards defeating Dalton McGuinty in 2011."

Tory said that he will remain a supportive and active member of the Ontario PC Party.

"I have been active with the Party for 40 years. I remain committed to ensuring its success in the future," said Tory. "I believe in the Ontario PC Party and the values it stands for."

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