Mayor Rob Ford has been advised by his recently chosen deputy to take a leave of absence.

Deputy Mayor Norm Kelly said his message to Ford in private conversation is that it would be in Ford’s interest to step down for at least the next couple of months.

Kelly said he told Ford “that he could protect his family, himself health-wise, his political career and the vitality of his administration if he took a pause and re-grouped and re-entered the fray later this year or early next year.”

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Ford has said he’s not going anywhere.

Kelly said he’s articulating his position because people have been asking him where he stands on the crisis.

“I’ve given him my best advice over these last few days and weeks but in the end I think it’s important for me to let the public know where I stand on this,” Kelly told television station CP24.

“I’m inviting him today, as I have previously, to take a pause, with all its advantages, because it’s the one option that looks after all of the issues that are on the table right now.”

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“I’m just looking at a politician in a political context and offering political advice that addresses most of the concerns that are out there, expressed by people.”