Sarnia-Lambton's Progressive Conservative MPP said he supports Premier Doug Ford invoking the notwithstanding clause to push through his downsizing of Toronto City Council.
Bob Bailey referred to the "supremacy of the legislature" in his argument that it's appropriate to overrule an Ontario Superior Court judge's finding that the Toronto council bill is unconstitutional.
He said the premier is allowing a "free vote" on the issue but what's expected of party members is clear.
"To be honest, if you're in cabinet or a parliamentary assistant like I am, you're expected to support the government and its initiatives. That's always been the way. It's the way federally and in every other government," said Bailey.
Bailey said the government is also appealing the initial ruling to get the opinion of a higher court, but he suggests there's urgency in saving significant dollars in Toronto over the next four-year council term.
Premier Ford wants to cut the size of council nearly in half in the midst of the October election campaign.
Bailey said savings could be invested in badly needed transit and other infrastructure improvements in Toronto.
-With files from Lee Michaels
