notwithstanding clause

Doug Ford says he'll overrule court's decision on Toronto city council

Ontario Premier Doug Ford shocked the province today as he announced he would invoke the notwithstanding clause — also known as Section 33 in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms — to reverse a court decision to uphold Toronto's 47-seat council. 

Earlier today, Superior Court Justice Edward Belobaba upheld the city's motion to keep the election at the higher number of seats. 

However, in a press conference that was delayed several times, Ford announced the decision would be overruled. 

"People in Toronto are frustrated," he said, "We haven't seen any decisions over the last four years with this mayor."

When asked if he is worried about being called a dictator, Ford replied "I was elected." 

The Premier also warned that he is willing to use Section 33 as often as he has to in the future. 

Lead photo by

Doug Ford


Latest Videos



Latest Videos


Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in City

What's open and closed on Victoria Day 2024 in Toronto

The breathtaking Mast Trail in Toronto follows a 200-year-old logging route

Moore Park Ravine is an escape from the city in midtown Toronto

The history of what was once Toronto's grandest mansion

This is how Toronto celebrated Victoria Day over 100 years ago

You can take in breathtaking valley views along the Vista Rouge Trail in Toronto

Downsview Park in Toronto is a massive urban park around an artificial lake

Canada is seeing one of the worst standard-of-living declines in 40 years