News Release Archive
PREMIER--RESIGNATION ----------------------------------------------------------------- On election night almost four years ago I pledged the following: "I will do my best to earn your confidence and your trust by letting the actions and deeds of my government speak of our commitment to social, political and economic reform." Those sentiments are as true today as they were on May 25th, 1993. Over the past four years the task of reshaping government was an imperative I could not ignore. To make sure that essential government programs and services could be maintained, change had to take place. This task required a certain kind of leadership. Nova Scotia needed a government and a leader who would not shy away from making tough decisions. This is the kind of leadership I have tried to provide. The stage has been set so that Nova Scotians can now expect to benefit from the sacrifices of the past four years. Health, education and social programs have been secured for the benefit of future generations. I have now accomplished much of what I set out to do four years ago. Accordingly, after careful consideration and with mixed emotions I have decided to step down as Premier of Nova Scotia and Leader of the Liberal Party. I intend to remain as Premier until a new leader is chosen. Just a short time ago I informed my cabinet and caucus colleagues of my decision. I have also spoken with the President of the Liberal Party. My decision to step down was my decision. It wasn't taken lightly and it was definitely not an easy one to make. I entered political life not to cut budgets, but to build a strong foundation on which Nova Scotia could move confidently towards the 21st Century. I have worked hard to do my part in building a stronger and more vibrant Nova Scotia. Only time will tell how well I've succeeded. In closing, I thank members of my cabinet and caucus for their support during the good times and the bad. Only they can fully appreciate how really challenging it has been to stay the course and do what was right for Nova Scotia. I thank the staff of both my Halifax and Dartmouth offices. Their loyalty and support over the past four years has been very gratifying. Thanks also to members of my constituency executive and all the Liberals in Dartmouth who have provided so much support. It also has been a very great privilege to serve as Leader of the Nova Scotia Liberal Party. I can not say enough about the support, loyalty and love that I have consistently received from my wife Margaret and all the members of my family. I am proud to serve as Premier of Nova Scotia and to represent this Province at home and around the world. I thank Nova Scotians for this privilege. Nova Scotia is at a very important turning point in its history. We are on the threshold of a bright and secure future. I am confident that it is a future that holds great promise for our children and I'm proud to have played a part in the process. Thank you. -30- trp Mar. 20, 1997 - 12 p.m.