Below is the full text of the police board's statement on Chief Bill Blair:
TORONTO POLICE SERVICES BOARD'S STATEMENT REGARDING CHIEF BLAIR
July 30, 2014
Earlier, the Board had announced that Chief William Blair would convey his intention regarding the renewal of his appointment to the Board by July 25, 2014 and that the Board would make a public statement as soon as it had something substantive to say, recognizing the public interest in this matter.
After considerable discussion related to the Toronto Police Service’s continuing need for organizational renewal the Board has decided not to renew the employment agreement of Chief Blair. Chief Blair will complete his term of office on April 25, 2015.
Chief Blair has had a long and distinguished policing career with the Toronto Police Service. He is widely viewed as a champion of community policing and a leader in law enforcement around the world.
He has demonstrated his commitment to issues of human rights, diversity and integrity, among many others, and has served Toronto admirably and tirelessly.
There will be an opportunity in the months to come to offer Chief Blair a fitting tribute for his years of dedicated and honourable service to our community. At this time, on behalf of all Torontonians, the Board extends to Chief Blair our sincere gratitude for his outstanding record of public service and inspiring leadership.
The Board will now begin to take the necessary steps as we embark on the open search for the next Chief of Police for the City of Toronto.
Torontonians will be kept informed as those steps are finalized. Today is a day to say “thank you” to Chief Blair.
