More signs of life in PC leadership race as deadline looms

There may finally be some competition stepping up for the province's Progressive Conservative leadership race.

To date, Corner Brook businessman Bill Barry is still the only candidate officially entered for the leadership bid.

However, former Tory MHA Shawn Skinner said Monday that he is in the process of collecting signatures and finalizing paperwork in preparation of getting into the race.

Skinner wouldn't confirm for certain that he was in, but an announcement is expected on Thursday.

Steve Kent, PC MHA for Mount Pearl North, may be the only current member of caucus stepping up for the race.

Kent has the cheque and signatures ready if he chooses to run, with an announcement expected on Friday, which is the nomination deadline for the Tory leadership.

Former cabinet minister John Ottenheimer said he also has what he needs to enter the race, but has yet to decide if he wants to officially run.

Ottenheimer told CBC News that he is on the fence about whether or not he wants to try for the leadership, but to expect a firm decision by Thursday.

West coast businessman Frank Coleman is another big name Tory supporters are waiting on.

There was no word from Coleman on Monday, but PC insiders say they're less optimistic he'll run.

Corner Brook resident Clarence Cantwell, a political outsider, has also indicated he intends to run for the leadership.