Mayor Tory was running away from the holiday shopping embarrassment that confounds Toronto each summer statutory holiday. Mr. Tory was interviewed by Don Peat of the Toronto Sun. The authority to permit retailers to open — as City staff has recommended — rests entirely with City Council. The province transferred the power a couple of years ago. Instead the City struggles under an incredible crazy quilt of zones and exceptions (including the much loved taped-off space in grocery stores) on each such holiday. The mayor calls it a disadvantage but apparently has no interest in opening up the debate maybe because he has lots of other things to do. Don Peat
