Powell River residents join millions of Canadians who are mourning the death of Jack Layton, leader of the federal New Democratic Party. Layton, 61, died early Monday of an undisclosed form of cancer.
Layton became the leader of the Official Opposition in May after voters elected 103 New Democrat MPs. This was the first time New Democrats formed the Official Opposition.
Layton had three decades of public service and was leader of the New Democrats from 2003 to 2011. He was known for his ability to bring people together to solve problems, his energy and optimism and his dedication to representing those who were often ignored. He started his political career at the local government level and many of his skills came from his long service in Toronto.
In a letter to Canadians, Layton wrote, “My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we’ll change the world.”
Layton’s public service serves as an example for all Canadians.
