Is Rob Ford Ruining the Image of Canada’s Business Capital?
by kamilkhan
Rob Ford’s controversial refusal to step down as the Mayor of Toronto after allegations of use of crack has left local citizens frustrated. But what impact does Mayor Rob Ford’s negative press have on local businesses?
Andrew Liang, director of Cormex’s MediaLAB project believes that the increased attention will decrease international investment in the city; “Why anybody down the road would think favourably on this city as a place to invest in, I don’t know,” he said.
However, not everyone agrees with Andrew. Janet Ecker, president of the Toronto Financial Services Alliance is clear to explain that the “theatre of the absurd” politics doesn’t have an impact on investments if the fundamental business aspects of the city remain unchanged.
Although there are many views, none of them are positive: they are either neutral, or negative. Furthermore, it is clear that the longer the major chooses to remain in office, the worst the effect is going to be. It is therefore vital for Rob Ford to step down in order to help salvage the city’s worldwide reputation.
It is ironic that the best thing the Mayor can do for the city is to not be the Mayor of the city.
It’s true that there are many critics who would like to see Rob Ford dismissed from his position. However, many of his supporters believe that his qualities greatly outweigh his faults in that his achievements as a mayor are much more important than his weakness for drugs and alcohol. Despite his most recent actions, Rob Ford still has quite a strong army of supporters.