Former prime minister Stephen Harper’s former chief of staff, Guy Giorno has handed in his resignation as Brampton’s integrity commissioner, citing the election of Patrick Brown as mayor as the reason.

(Adrian Wyld/ Canadian Press)

”Perception is important.  Public confidence in the Integrity Commissioner’s objectivity is essential.  While this step makes me the first integrity commissioner in Canada to resign to avoid the perception of conflict following an election result, it is the responsible and ethical imperative,” Giorno wrote.

Brown was an MP in Harper’s government and worked with Giorno.

”I have worked with him in both provincial and federal governments.  He has hosted events on my behalf and I consider him a friend.  I respect his decision.  It was the right choice,” Brown said.

Giorno serves as integrity commissioner for other area municipalities and regions, including Orangeville and Dufferin County.