Ford flips the script

And introducing the newest chief of staff

ABOVE THE FOLD

“I’m not a drinker, but I’m tempted to go back there and crack one of those — whatever they are — ciders, and take a little swig.” Teetotaller Premier Ford announces expanded booze sales. Photo: @fordnation

CHEERS AND JEERS — It’s official. After recent leaks and years of promises, the Ford government has detailed its plan to liberalize booze sales — by 2026.

About the timing: Beer, wine, cider, coolers and pre-mixed drinks will be sold at 8,500 corner shops, grocery stores and big-box retailers just in time for the next election. The timing is owed in large part to the fact that the province’s 10-year deal with the Beer Store doesn’t expire until 2025, and some industry experts pegged the cost of breaking it early at up to $1 billion.

The fine print: The plan will also end the Beer Store’s monopoly on the sale of 12- and 24-packs, with retailers allowed to offer 30-packs. Competitive pricing is also getting the green-light, but there will be minimum standards. Because th…