Former ombudsman André Marin to run for Tories in Ottawa-Vanier byelection

Ontario’s controversial former ombudsman is jumping into politics and running for the Progressive Conservatives in an upcoming byelection in Ottawa-Vanier.

André Marin says after fighting for average people as ombudsman for a decade he can no longer sit on the sidelines, and he wants to take the battle to Queen’s Park.

As ombudsman, Marin issued a report that said Hydro One mistreated and misled customers about billing problems. He vowed on Saturday to tackle high electricity prices if elected.

Marin served as ombudsman for two five-year terms until last year and has since filed a lawsuit against the government for wrongful dismissal, alleging Premier Kathleen Wynne and the Liberals “orchestrated” his removal from public office.

Marin alleges he was fired without cause and without notice and is suing for two years of pay and $3 million in damages.

The Ottawa-Vanier seat has been vacant since Liberal MPP Madeleine Meilleur announced she was leaving politics in June. The government has yet to set a date for the vote.

PC Leader Patrick Brown praised Marin’s record of holding government accountable, in announcing the candidacy on Saturday.

“André Marin was a whistleblower on government waste and mismanagement for 10 years. He stood up for the little guy. He was a voice for Ontarians,” Brown said in a statement.

“And as a lifelong resident of Ottawa, Marin is no stranger to the local challenges residents face. The people of Ottawa-Vanier would be able to count on him to represent their best interests with integrity and passion.”

The premier’s office did not comment when Marin launched his legal action earlier this year.