Doug Ford still using personal phone as transparency battle over call log continues

Ontario Premier Doug Ford continues to provide his personal cell number to individuals, promising to involve government ministers and municipal leaders in addressing their issues. This comes as lawyers for the premier fight to keep his call records private, arguing they are not related to official business.

The Ford government has been in a dispute with Global News for over a year regarding the premier’s personal cellphone, refusing to release government-related records from the device, citing privacy concerns.

Despite this ongoing battle, Ford publicly shares his unofficial phone number, most recently at Toronto Pearson International Airport, encouraging those in need to reach out for assistance.

During a recent appearance, Ford encouraged individuals to contact him directly for help, stating that he involves various levels of government and ministers to address issues raised to him.

Despite efforts to keep his personal phone number private, Ford has repeatedly shared it at public events, including an Ontario Real Estate Association gathering.

Global News has been engaged in a battle with the Ford government over the premier’s personal cellphone, with requests for call logs being denied, despite evidence of the phone being used for government business.

The transparency battle has involved arguments between Global News and the Cabinet Office, with initial denials and subsequent acknowledgments of the premier’s use of his personal phone for government matters.

Despite the controversy, some have defended Ford’s actions, claiming his transparency in sharing his personal number makes him accessible to the public.

However, critics have raised concerns about the use of personal devices for official government business, calling for greater transparency in Ford’s communications.

Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles criticized Ford for withholding his phone logs, accusing him of prioritizing his associates over transparency.

Ontario Liberal leader Bonnie Crombie also raised concerns about Ford’s communication practices, suggesting he favors wealthy insiders in his interactions.

Global News awaits a decision from Ontario’s transparency watchdog regarding the cellphone appeal, which will impact the public’s access to information related to the premier’s personal phone.

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