Conservatives would allow beer, wine to be sold in corner stores

TORONTO — Doug Ford said Friday that a Progressive Conservative government would allow beer and wine to be sold in Ontario corner stores, timing his announcement with the start of a long weekend.

The Liberal government started expanding alcohol sales in 2015 to up to 450 grocery stores, but said it would not include other retail outlets. Grocers are selected through a competitive bidding process held by the Liquor Control Board of Ontario.

The Tories would allow beer, wine, cider and coolers to be sold in corner stores, box stores and any grocery store, Ford announced. “As we approach the Victoria Day weekend, it is time to acknowledge that Ontario is mature enough for this change and ready to join other jurisdictions in making life a little more convenient,” he said.

Ford said he would implement the booze policy as soon as possible, allowing any of those outlets to sell the beverages as long as they meet requirements from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.

Ford’s announcement also comes as he faced heavy scrutiny over allegations that a Tory candidate, who resigned, was involved in an alleged theft of data at a toll highway operator. Ford is also facing criticism for go to a fundraiser in violation of campaign finance rules, which he said was a mistake.

The Liberals suggested the timing of Ford’s announcement was deliberate. “Doug Ford is doing this today ... as a way of distracting from the growing political scandal that surrounds (alleged) Conservative involvement in the theft of 407 ETR data,” a spokesperson said.