The premier’s defending himself against the defamation lawsuit filed by the former OPP deputy commissioner.

In a statement in response to Brad Blair’s suit, Doug Ford’s lawyers say the premier’s remarks were fair and made in response to ”malicious” attacks launched by Blair through the media.

Blair alleged Ford smeared his reputation for political gain when the premier said he violated the Police Services Act, by publicly raising questions about the appointment of long-time Ford family friend Ron Taverner as commissioner.

(Brad Blair, Ron Taverner, Doug Ford)

Blair launched the 5-million-dollar lawsuit accusing the premier of trying to intimidate him as he asked the courts to force the provincial ombudsman to investigate the Taverner appointment.

Ford’s lawyers say Blair’s lawsuit is an abuse of process and are asking it be thrown out. 

Taverner eventually withdrew from consideration for the job that went to former York Regional Deputy Police Chief Thomas Carrique.