QUEENS PARK – POLITICS – Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne has issued the following statement over the unexpected passing of Jim Flaherty.
“It was with deep sadness that I learned that Jim Flaherty has passed away.
All of Queen’s Park is in shock. Jim and I were colleagues at Queen’s Park from 2003 to 2005, but he served Ontario in the legislature from 1995 to 2005 and I loved his feisty, articulate spirit. I have worked with his wife, MPP Christine Elliot, who is a dedicated public servant, in the Ontario legislature for many years.
I extend my deepest condolences to her and their three sons, John, Quinn and Galen at this moment of tragic loss.
Canada has lost a great Canadian.
Mr. Flaherty was a determined servant of the people who worked hard to represent his constituents in Whitby-Oshawa and their needs. I know there will be many celebrations of his contributions and public service in the coming days.
He was one of Canada’s longest-serving finance ministers until he left politics on March 18, just three and a half weeks ago and I’m sure he and his family were looking forward to more time together.
During his time as federal Finance Minister, he helped steer Canada out of the worst of the recession.
On behalf of all Ontarians, I want to express my gratitude for his service to Ontario and to Canada, and my sorrow and sympathy to Mr. Flaherty’s family, colleagues and many friends.
Our thoughts and prayers are with them.”
