Green Leader Mike Schreiner said Tuesday he would not be leaving the party to run for the Ontario Liberal leadership, weeks after a group of Grit veterans publicly encouraged him to do so.
In a video statement posted on Twitter, Schreiner thanked the group of nearly 40 Liberals who signed an open letter urging him to consider a leadership bid, and said he was "deeply moved" by the support of Ontarians who want him to "join the progressive movement." "
But after taking some time to talk to Green Party members and his constituents in Guelph, Schreiner said, he won't try to cross over to the Liberal Party.
I have taken the time to seriously consider the letter written by people I respect. I have asked myself and others how I can make a positive difference in building the Ontario we want. The answer for me is: as the leader of the Ontario Green Party, because we need strong Green voices at Queen`s Park, who will stay focused on the need for climate action. A strong opposition is vital to democracy and we are making a difference." "There is a lot of unfinished work to make our province, our economy and our communities climate ready. Work that I am determined to continue to do as a green leader.
He said as much in a recorded speech released shortly before the Legislature returned after a two - month break.
He also encouraged the people of Ontario to elect more representatives of the green movement to make it clear that the status quo is unacceptable.