Watchdog probes cost of stocking stores early

Critics say provincial tab could be 3 or 4 times Ford's estimated $225M

- ROB FERGUSON

The probe by the Financial Accould cost the provincial liquor mo- Ontario builds more electric vehinopoly $150 million a year.

Broader alcohol sales will begin at big box stores by the end of October.

Ford shrugged off the FAO probe Monday at a campaign-style stop in Windsor, where he pledged over $9 million to expand a training centre for electricians and autoworkers as cle battery plants.

"I think it's a great deal," he told reporters, citing greater convenience to consumers who can also buy wine and beer in many supermarkets in addition to Beer Stores and LCBO outlets.