Provincial Vote 2007
Honesty and hard work led to respect for MPP John Tory
By MARK PAVILONS

Editor

A few simple concepts have resulted in a high level of respect for this riding's MPP.

Progressive Conservative party leader John Tory navigated the learning curve in Dufferin-Peel-Wellington- Grey over the past two and a half years, equipping himself for the next, great challenge - landing the job as premier of Ontario.

The riding has been a true-blue haven for Conservative candidates over the years, and voters have been fortunate to have been represented by two party leaders (Tory and Ernie Eves). Tory brought a refreshing tenacity to the job, redefining the role and revamping the entire party along the way. Tory's commitment locally has been warmly received.

In his first foray into provincial politics, Tory utilized some very basic, human practises to achieve results. The parliamentarian comes across as if he's been at the podium for years, an eloquent speaker who rivals the skills of elixir hawkers and evangelical preachers.

His very early "education" came at the hands of well known former premier Bill Davis, who left a huge impression on the political landscape in his undefeated 13-year tenure (1971-1985).

By watching his political mentor, Tory learned some fundamental truisms - treat people with respect; listen to their concerns; work hard and do what you say. Tory said these same rules apply in life, from the board room table to the dinner table.

Backed by a solid work ethic from his parents - to always do your best - Tory says his approach in politics is no different than his business dealings as a corporate executive. Giving people his time, along with ample servings of courtesy and humility, have served him well.

Tory said during his term as MPP and party leader, he's often the last to leave the room after a meeting, public event or talk. He wants to make sure people are satisfied that they've been heard and understood. People don't expect miracles from their political leaders, and they will respect them if they're open and straightforward.

And Tory made it clear, from the moment he became MPP in the St. Patrick's Day byelection of 2005, that he wouldn't seek re-election in Dufferin-Peel-Wellington- Grey. He stressed his ultimate goal was to concentrate on rebuilding the party in the Toronto ridings.

He began knocking on doors in the riding of Don Valley West last October, often to enthusiastic response from residents who remembered him from the Toronto mayoral race of 2003, when he finished second behind David Miller.

Tory said he was serious about his bid for mayor because he thought Toronto needed a different approach and style of leadership. He very much wanted to make a contribution to Canada's largest city.

Consequently, Toronto's loss was this riding's gain and fate has led Tory to the brink of possibly leading the most powerful province in the country.

His job took him from Toronto to rural Caledon and Dufferin and he remembers being quite anxious about how he'd be perceived here. He was pleasantly surprised by the gracious and warm reception that followed, something that has grown to this day.

"People here are inclined to be warm and gracious if you make the effort," he said, adding honesty is high on constituents' list of priorities. While he's been asked many times to stay, he's sticking to his initial promise.

Tory has also been committed to learning everything he can about local residents and the issues that effect their lives and livelihood.

This baptism by fire has been a "huge bonus" for Tory because he will be among only one other leader who's had the benefit of representing (and knowing) a rural community. He sees the opportunity of hearing from local farmers, firsthand, about their concerns, and gaining a solid understanding of many rural issues as a "huge blessing."

He admits that his duties as party leader have "distracted" him from being on hand in the riding more often. Thanks to creative scheduling and a rock-solid support staff, constituents have been well served.

He's also delighted that people continue to approach him, wanting to speak candidly and frankly about what's on their minds.

Locally, Tory has fought for the 410 extension into Caledon, and was somewhat dissatisfied with the slow pace that plagued the project. He's also been frustrated with a lack of attention on Highway 10 through Caledon Village, but discussions with Transportation Minister Donna Cansfield indicate a resolution is at hand.

There are many projects that have given him plenty of satisfaction, but Tory is quick to point out it's a team effort, not an individual achievement. Being able to work with individuals on smaller matters has been very rewarding, he points out, adding more often than not, reasonable, earnest discussions can solve problems.

That's not only a credit to politicians and staff, but to the democratic system itself - proof that it can, and does work. Tory said he's found a great deal of pleasure in sharing community occasions with residents, from school openings to lakeside fund-raisers.

In order to learn about the issues, you have to physically visit the people and places involved. Tory is on the road a great deal and he visited Caledonia several times because he needed to learn about the land issues first-hand, from those who live there. (Six Nations natives have been at odds with a developer for many months, over a 40-hectare parcel of land near Hamilton.) You can't rely on other, removed sources for your information and you can't lose touch with people.

Provincially, Tory is pleased with renewing and repositioning the party. When politicians are sent packing, en masse, it's basically because voters believe they've lost touch with constituents. Tory believes he's helped reestablish and reconnect the party with its policies and issues, and to the people.

In opposition, the Conservatives have forced the Liberal government to bring in important changes, and they continue to push for changes to tax assessment, health care wait times and law and order issues. Tory is disappointed he couldn't make more headway in encouraging the Liberals to provide more assistance to farmers and eliminate the unpopular health tax. He's also disappointed he couldn't fulfill another of his objectives - decorum in the Legislature.

Through this hectic and, at times, tumultuous period, Tory has retained his integrity. He admitted there is a great deal of pressure on politicians and leaders to change their views or adopt new positions on issues. You simply can't try to be someone other than yourself, he stresses, noting people will see through that very quickly. He has maintained his stance and views on several controversial issues, and this all comes back to honesty.

Tory also observed that politicians sometimes forget to remind themselves about humility. The essence of politics is you work for the people and they alone determine your future.

His greatest call ever will go out to voters Oct. 10, asking for support in his party's quest to once again lead this great province.