Residents of B.C. awoke Monday morning to the news that NDP leader Jack Layton had died. Whether people agreed with his politics or not, it appears everyone is reaching out to offer thoughts, prayers, and condolences to his family and friends.
Federal NDP Leader Nycole Turmel has released a statement, including the words: “Jack was a courageous man. It was his leadership that inspired me, and so many others, to run for office. We – Members of Parliament, New Democrats and Canadians – need to pull together now and carry on his fight to make this country a better place.”
Libby Davies, MP for Vancouver East, who will be one of many attending Layton’s funeral on Saturday, said the leader’s death has left a hole in the party and in the hearts of many Canadians. “Like many many Canadians across the country I feel a tremendous sense of loss but also pride at the incredible life that Jack Layton led,” she said. “He inspired us all.” She went on to say that people really felt like they knew Layton and he was interested in what people had to say no matter who you were or where you were from. Moving forward with the party, Davies said the most important thing in her opinion, will be to carry on the work for which Layton laid the foundation, and supporting his wife and family during this difficult time. “Parliament comes back September 19th and it’s really important that as the official opposition we’re ready to go, and carry on his work,” she said. “So I know that’s what we’ll all be focused on when we have our caucus strategy meeting leading up to the parliamentary session on September 19th.”
The Green Party of Canada issued a statement saying: “The Green Party of Canada offers deep sympathy and sadness at the news of the death of one of Canada’s leading political figures. The party, its members, candidates, staff and leader send sincere condolences to the entire NDP family, Jack’s family and most especially to Jack’s wife Olivia Chow. “I am deeply saddened by the untimely death of Jack Layton. Collectively, Canadian hearts are breaking,” said Green Leader Elizabeth May. “Jack will always be remembered for his unfailing love of Canada and his dedication to this country and its citizens.”
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Premier Christy Clark also issued a statement that said “It was with great sadness that we learned today of the passing of federal New Democrat Party leader Jack Layton. A passionate Canadian, Jack Layton was a tireless advocate and his energy, dedication and intelligence have been at the service of Canadians since his days as a municipal politician.”
“Mr. Layton inspired Canadians during his first battle with cancer and we were all behind him during his second courageous fight. He was a dedicated public servant who earned the respect of Canadians for his clear desire to build a better country and his constant goodwill.”
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Olivia and the entire Layton family.”
Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson said “The passing of Jack Layton is a tremendous loss for our country and my deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones. Jack was a fighter who dedicated his life to public service and he was tireless in his efforts to make Canada a better place for everyone. He was widely respected for his strong leadership and the sense of hope and optimism he brought to the political arena. I was fortunate to meet and work with Jack, first as an MLA and then as Mayor. Jack was a great Canadian who will be remembered for his passion, intelligence and deep commitment to social justice. He battled cancer with incredible dignity and the spirit of his work will live on through the many people he inspired as a leader.”
BC Conservative Party Leader John Cummins said “”It is with profound sadness that I hear of the death of Jack Layton. Having sat across the aisle from him until this past March, I was always impressed by his tenacity and his passion for his beliefs. His wife Olivia Chow, the rest of the Layton family and hismany friends are in our thoughts and prayers during this time of grieving.”
Vancouver City Councillor Suzanne Anton also expressed sadness to hear of Layton’s passing, saying “I want to offer my sympathy to Jack Layton’s wife and family. The passing of Jack Layton is a terrible loss to them and to all Canadians.”
“Jack devoted much of his life to advancing municipal politics. He understood the needs of municipal government. As a former municipal councillor and President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, he put Canadian cities on the national agenda.”
James Moore, Conservative Party MP for Port Moody-Westwood-Port Coquitlam, was unavailable for further comment, but said briefly Monday morning that “A kind, decent, honourable gentleman has left us. A great politician, a better man, rest peacefully Jack.”
NDP MP for Vancouver-Kingsway, Don Davies, expressed his sadness at Layton’s death and tweeted: “Deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers on the passing of Jack Layton: a magificent man, an outstanding leader, a great Canadian.”
Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts took to Twitter and wrote: “My deepest Condolences to Jack Layton’s family. He dedicated his life to public service and was at the top of his game when he stepped down.”
The BC Liberal Party also used their Twitter account to speak about Layton, saying “So incredibly sad to hear the news of Jack Layton’s passing this morning.”
The BC Liberal Caucus tweeted “Sad to hear of Jack’s death. Leaders who truly believe in their principles and work tirelessly to advocate for them deserve respect.”
City Caucus said on Twitter: “Shocked and saddened to wake up to the news that Jack Layton has passed away this morning. May he rest in peace.”
Reporter Ted Field took this video of Christy Clark speaking about Layton on Monday morning:
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