Mediaboss Marketing

Ontario is reviewing the rules for severance pay after a rookie New Democrat MPP became eligible for a $58,000 golden parachute despite working only five months.

Sudburys Joe Cimino, who was elected on June 12, resigned suddenly on Nov. 20, citing personal reasons.

Combined with his six months of severance pay and a byelection that Premier Kathleen Wynne must call on or before May 20, Ciminos mysterious departure could cost Ontarians as much as $558,000.

Government House leader Yasir Naqvi said there would be an all-party review by the legislatures board of internal economy, which oversees MPP compensation.

Naqvi said severance is to assist the member in transitioning into a different life given there are no pensions, but the Cimino affair alters the landscape.

It creates a new situation that needs to be reviewed, he said, conceding that under the existing rules the New Democrat will receive the money.

I dont remember something like that . . . where an MPP has stepped down so quickly.

Progressive Conservative interim leader Jim Wilson was incredulous and agreed changes are needed.

There probably should be a minimum amount of time that you serve here before you get any type of payout from the taxpayer and I dont what that would be, but Id be willing to discuss it, said Wilson.

Im sure anybody in the public, including myself, thinks thats just ridiculous, the Tory chief said.

Go here to see the original:
Ontario to review severance rules after New Democrat MPPs departure