Mayor Rob Ford’s statement on the firing of Gary Webster

Mayor Rob Ford released the following statement on Tuesday evening regarding the decision made by the transit commission to fire TTC chief general manager Gary Webster.

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Statement from Mayor Rob Ford:

I support the Commission’s decision on the departure of Mr. Webster.  Gary has served Toronto and the TTC well in his years of service.  He was an important element in the organization’s many successes to date and can proudly point to a list of accomplishments.

But, it’s time for the organization to look forward.  The Commissioners tell me this.  Councillors tell me this.  The general public – and subway, streetcar and bus passengers all tell me it’s time for change.

The TTC was once recognized worldwide as an example of public transit excellence.  It’s time for the TTC to modernize, to review its mission and mandate, to revisit its structure and move forward with a vision that will serve Toronto to the end of this century and sets an example for the world to follow.

It’s time for the TTC to focus on operational excellence and to become, once again, a world leader that connects people with their jobs, homes, families and recreation – rapidly, affordably, conveniently, comfortably, reliably and safely.  As it achieves this aim, customer satisfaction and cost-efficiency will grow rapidly.

It’s time for the TTC to become so good at what it does, that customers choose to spend their money on transit rather than drive their cars.

The timing is right for major change at the TTC.  We are beginning the process of renewing the structure of the Commission by introducing skills-based board members to augment the politicians directing the organization.  The TTC is entering a period of significant capital growth.  A major reassessment of customer service needs has begun.

The time is right for a new leader to take the reins at TTC and lead the organization through this period of major change.