Long-time area MPP Jim Wilson has returned to Queen's Park, but not to his usual seat.
The Simcoe-Grey representative was back in the legislature yesterday (Feb. 20) after being away since November. He confirmed to Queen's Park media he had been in a rehab program for alcoholism.
At the time of his departure, Premier Doug Ford said a Queen's Park staffer made a complaint against Wilson alleging sexual misconduct. At the time, Ford said there was a third-party investigation underway.
Wilson told reporters he was not aware of any investigations into the matter and had not been interviewed or questioned on the subject.
Wilson resigned from the PC Caucus and his post as Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation, and Trade on Nov. 2.
On Tuesday, when MPPs returned from their break, Wilson took a seat at the back of the legislature, opposite the PC seats, as an independent.
He told reporters at Queen's Park his priority was reconnecting with his constituents and continuing to heal. He said he felt "very optimistic," as he headed into the legislature.
Wilson previously appeared earlier this month at a public engagement in the Tottenham area of his riding to congratulate the local Lion's Club on a 50th anniversary.
