Meet Solicitor General Michael Kerzner

Q&A with Solicitor General Michael Kerzner

The Dispatch: How are you enjoying your portfolio as Solicitor General? Minister Kerzner: Being Solicitor General of Ontario is the honour of a lifetime. When I first stepped into the role, I dedicated myself to listening and learning. And that is what I’ve done in these first 150 days. I’ve had the opportunity to tour this beautiful province and meet with the brave men and women who keep Ontario safe each and every day.

The Dispatch: What is the biggest thing you’ve learned about first responders since you’ve started in this role? MK: What has struck me most is the brotherhood and sisterhood – it’s amazingly strong and special. Sadly, your community has lost several officers in recent months. We’ve shed tears together and held each other close. But I’m also in awe of the resilience that the first responder community continues to show. And I thank you for allowing me to be part of your lives.

The Dispatch: What changes can you introduce to improve working conditions for first responders? MK: As Premier Doug Ford often says, we will always have your backs. And I’m here to say, I will also always have your backs. You can count on me. What that means, as Solicitor General, is that we will continue to provide the tools you need to keep Ontario safe and to keep you safe. That means providing mental health resources for first responders that are needed now.

The Dispatch: Now that you’ve been in your role for a little while, what else would you say you’ve learned about the policing community? Any misconceptions that have been corrected? MK: As I’ve said before, I’m overwhelmed by the bond within your community and your values and ethics to protect and serve. I’ve seen firsthand the unwavering dedication and support that you provide one another in good times and in bad. That will remain with me long after I leave this role. Before I became Solicitor General, I used to see the uniforms. Now I see the men and women who wear them.

The Dispatch: How important is your relationship with the PAO and the other police associations across the province?

Solicitor General Kerzner has been incredibly supportive of events in the policing community, including attending the Police Memorial in Ottawa and the Run to Remember sendoff in Toronto. At right, he is pictured with PAO Executive Director Tyler Callaghan and President Mark Baxter, along with Mark’s children.

MK: I am proud of our relationship with the PAO and all those who stand up for our community. I’ve had the privilege of meeting regularly with Mark Baxter, and I appreciate his friendship and guidance. He is an exceptional individual. I also attended the PAO Police Hero of the Year award ceremony in Guelph and look forward to attending many more.

The Dispatch: What were you doing before you went into politics? MK: I was an entrepreneur in the biotech and technology sectors. I am a person who believes in creativity, the imagination and human progress.

The Dispatch: Was it a difficult decision to give up your previous career? MK: You leave behind the satisfaction of your accomplishments in the private sector, but I’ve always believed in service over self. I’m honoured to spend my time as both MPP of York Centre, where I’ve lived with my family for over 25 years, and now as Solicitor General. I’m very grateful to Premier Ford for allowing me to be part of his team.

The Dispatch: Has it been an easy transition? MK: The transition from the private to the public sector has been a great honour, as I say. The values I see in the Ministry of the Solicitor General align with my personal values. I believe everyone has a right to feel safe in their own homes and their own communities. I believe everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect. And I believe, as I said, in service over self.

The Dispatch: What is your favourite part about being Solicitor General? MK: Now that’s a hard question! I’ve always been an early riser and so I look forward every day to working in my portfolio. From my amazing teams at the ministry and the constituency office, to the incredible frontline staff who keep us safe every day, I’m a very lucky person.

The Dispatch: What would you say has been the most difficult part? MK: I would say understanding the totality of the responsibility, and the impact that one can make.

The Dispatch: What do you miss most about working in the technology industry? MK: Coming from the private sector, the process of government was a big adjustment. Given that we are very mindful that this is the taxpayers’ money, we are careful to ensure every penny is spent in a fiscally responsible way. The Dispatch: You’re also the MPP for York Centre. How are you finding the balance between that role and your role as Solicitor General? MK: It’s not easy. Being Solicitor General is a demanding job. As an elected official, you try to balance the needs of your constituents with the government priorities. During the week, I focus on ministry work. But I set aside Fridays specifically for constituency work. I love my community and love to interact with my constituents. I am here because of them.

The Dispatch: What about your work/life balance? We know that you have three kids and your family seems to be very important to you. Have you been able to keep your work/ life balance intact? MK: I could never have embarked on this journey without the support of family and friends. It’s unbelievable how much encouragement and support they gave me to reach this point. The Dispatch: Tell us a little bit about your family. MK: I am a proud third generation Ontarian who is blessed to have both parents still alive and well. They’re very much engaged in my new career. My three children are bright, energetic and concerned individuals who offer me unconditional love. My wife has been there for me every step of the way.

The Dispatch: And they have been extremely supportive of your new career? MK: Beyond supportive! There is no doubt I am where I am today because of them. Having the love and support of my family gives me the tools I need to do what I need to do every day.

The Dispatch: Volunteer work seems to be important to you. What are some of the organizations that you have dedicated your time and efforts to? MK: I have been a champion of inter-faith dialogue – which is needed more than ever. Everyone has the right to be treated with dignity and respect. I’ve been a community activist for decades.

The Dispatch: Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions and for your support. MK: The pleasure was mine.

Top left: Minister Kerzner was honoured to attending the Police Hero Award ceremony in Guelph in October. Above: The Solicitor General with MPP Saunderson at the OPP’s Collingwood and Blue Mountains Detachment.