Lawyers for Doug Ford say the premier did not make defamatory comments about a former high-ranking Ontario Provincial Police officer who is suing him.
In a statement of defence filed in response to a defamation suit by former deputy commissioner Brad Blair, Ford's lawyers say the premier's remarks were fair comment.
Blair alleged Ford smeared his reputation for political gain when the premier said the officer violated the Police Services Act by publicly raising questions about the appointment of a long-time Ford family friend as OPP commissioner.
Ford's lawyers allege the premier's comments came in response to ``malicious'' attacks launched by Blair through the media.
Blair launched the lawsuit last month, asking for $5 million in damages and alleging Ford's remarks were meant to intimidate him as he asked the courts to force the provincial ombudsman to investigate the commissioner appointment.
Ford's lawyers say Blair's lawsuit is an abuse of process and are asking for it to be dismissed.