N.S. Conservative Karen Casey defects to provincial Liberals

HALIFAX – The former interim leader of the Nova Scotia Conservative party has crossed the floor to join the provincial Liberals.

Karen Casey is joining the Liberal caucus, effective immediately, Liberal Leader Stephen McNeil announced Monday.

Casey said she believes the switching of allegiance is in the best interests of her constituents in the rural district of Colchester North.

"I was honoured to be asked to join the Liberal caucus," Casey said in a statement.

"Stephen is a leader who listens and understands. The Liberal caucus … provides a real and constructive alternative to the current (NDP) government."

McNeil said Casey’s role in the Liberal caucus has yet to be determined.

"Her dedication to her constituents is well-known and her knowledge of education and health issues is vast," he said in a statement. "She will strengthen the Liberal caucus in its role as official Opposition."

Casey, a former elementary school principal, was first elected to the legislature in 2006 and has served in cabinet in the health and education portfolios.

Following the 2009 election that saw the New Democrats sweep to power, she was selected interim leader of the Conservative party, taking over for former premier Rodney MacDonald.

She held the interim post until last August, when Jamie Baillie was acclaimed as Tory leader.

"I wish Karen well and respect her decision," Baillie said in a brief statement.

"The PC party and PC caucus will continue to provide leadership and support to the people of Colchester North."

Baillie said his party remains committed to providing an alternative to the NDP government.

The Liberals hold 13 seats in the legislature with Casey’s defection, still well behind the NDP’s 31. The Tories are reduced to seven seats and there is one independent.