A second name has been added to the hat of those seeking to become the next leader of the Saskatchewan New Democrats.
Economist Erin Weir announced today in Regina his candidacy to lead the NDP.
“I don’t just want to talk about party renewal,” said Weir in making the announcement.
“We must challenge the Sask Party’s agenda and propose policy alternatives.”
He already has the backing of former Manitoba premier Howard Pawley, former MP Dick Proctor and 50 economists from across Canada.
Weir says not being an MLA shouldn’t hurt him as the party needs to renew and rebuild without having a leader to the legislature.
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“I don’t think we want a leader who’s tied down at the Legislative Assembly all the time,” said Weir.
“We want someone who will be free to travel the province and lead that renewal process.”
Saskatoon-born Weir holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Regina, along with a Master of Arts at the University of Calgary and a Master of Public Administration at Queen’s University.
He has worked for the federal Treasury Board Secretariat, Department of Finance and Privy Council Office before working at the Canadian Labour Congress, the United Steelworkers union, and the International Trade Union Confederation.
He also ran against Ralph Goodale in the 2004 federal election.
Weir’s announcement comes two days after Saskatoon MLA Cam Broten announced his intention to seek the leadership.
Other names rumoured to be running are Saskatoon physician Ryan Meili and Regina MLA Trent Wotherspoon.
The Sask. NDP will choose a new leader on March 9, 2013 in Saskatoon.
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