George Pirie is the PC candidate for the 2022 Ontario election.
The party announced tonight that Pirie, who is currently the mayor of Timmins, has been nominated as the local candidate.
The seat has been held by NDP Gilles Bisson since 1990.
“I could not be more proud of the incredible team we are building, as more Mayors and municipal leaders add their name to our list of Ontario PC candidates,” said Premier Doug Ford, who was in Timmins today, in a news release.
“George Pirie has been an absolute champion for the people of Timmins as Mayor, and will continue to be a strong voice for you when he comes to Queens Park as your next MPP."
The former mining executive was elected as mayor in the last municipal election in 2018. It's the first political seat he's held. He's also been involved in a number of volunteer initiatives, including the United Way, hospital board, and the Northern College board of governors.
“Doug Ford and the entire PC team have delivered incredible leadership under the most challenging circumstances in close to a century,” said George Pirie. “I am proud to stand alongside them as your PC candidate to change the trajectory of Northern Ontario for all citizens. We need a new voice at Queen’s Park for the people of Timmins.”
Pirie raised speculation about running for higher office earlier this year after launching an election-style website and social media page branded as George Pirie - Let's Build A Better Tomorrow.
A sitting member of council is able to run for higher office, either provincially or federally. If elected, they have to resign their municipal seat.
