“I have thought about this for some time, and I have finally made my decision”, stated Hampton. “After 24 years as a member of the Ontario Legislature it is time for me to do some other things in life”.
“The 24 years I have spent representing the constituents of Kenora-Rainy River has been a privilege, and I can’t thank the people of Northwestern Ontario enough for their continued support over the years”, said Hampton.
Hampton, the MPP for Kenora-Rainy River was first elected in 1987. He was leader of the Ontario NDP from June 1996 to March 2009. Hampton was the NDP critic for Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Natural Resources and Economic Development and Trade. He previously served as the Minister of Natural Resources from 1993-1995 and as Attorney General of Ontario from 1990-1993 in the Bob Rae NDP government.
Prior to serving as an elected Member and Party Leader, Howard Hampton worked as a labour lawyer for the Canadian Labour Congress and in private practice in Fort Frances. He also worked for the Blakeney government in Saskatchewan, and as a teacher in southern and northern Ontario.
NDP Leader Andrea Horwath said in a statement; “Howard Hampton has been a Leader, a friend and an inspiration. Never daunted, never intimidated, in government and in opposition he took on the issues that mattered and didn’t worry about the odds.
“He steered our party through difficult times, shaped the province we live in and never stopped fighting for the people who sent him to Queen’s Park. Kenora Rainy River needed a representative who was tough, tireless and totally committed and Howie has been it: a voice for Northerners, and all Ontarians, for over two decades.
“Whether it was tackling the challenge of rebuilding our party, confronting the supposedly unstoppable forces privatizing our hydro system, or convincing a Hamilton City Councillor that she could run for office and win, Howie has been a relentless happy warrior, a great Leader, a friend and a true New Democrat.
“He may be focussing more of his time on being a great father and husband but I know his commitment won’t wane, and for that I thank him.”
