Hundreds of people booed Premier Doug Ford at the opening ceremonies of the Special Olympics at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.In contrast to Toronto Mayor John Tory, whose presence at the non-partisan event was cheered, Ford was jeered when he took the stage Tuesday night.“Boy ... you know something? I haven’t heard that much energy in a long time,” the premier said gamely.“My friends, boy, that’s the first time I’ve ever had some boos.”In fact, Ford was booed several times at candidate debates during the 2014 mayoral race he lost to Tory. Eyewitnesses told the Star the premier appeared visibly shaken by the booing.On Wednesday, the opposition New Democrats pounced on the episode, saying it proves the cuts in last month’s budget are not popular with Ontario families.“It sounds like the folks at the event wish the premier hadn’t showed up at all,” said MPP Taras Natyshak (Essex).The barbs infuriated Progressive Conservative MPPs in the legislature.“I find it ironic coming from the member from Essex. He didn’t even bother showing up. At least we showed up,” the premier said.“The throwing stones at a glass house is pretty staggering,” said Ford.“I would remind the member from Essex, I’ve spent my whole life helping children with special needs through Rotary. For 23 years, I helped through Rotary by going to events and helping children,” he said.“That’s what it’s all about. It’s not about getting into gutter politics and worrying about if you get a cheer or a boo. It’s about being there for the kids.”Ford’s caucus gave him a standing ovation for his response.But there are concerns among Conservatives because the Special Olympics, a global celebration of what people with intellectual disabilities can achieve in athletics, have always been apolitical.Read more: City manager says Toronto homeowners could get & ...
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