Former Leader of Ontario NDP endorses Dewar for Leader

OTTAWA – Today former MP, MPP and Leader of the Ontario NDP, Mike Cassidy, issued the following statement in support of Paul Dewar's leadership campaign:

Why I’m Supporting Paul Dewar as the Next Leader of the NDP

By Mike Cassidy

After careful reflection I have decided to support Paul Dewar to become the next leader of the federal New Democratic Party.

This was not a decision that came easily. All of the eight candidates have considerable talents and strengths to offer to the party and to Canadians. So why choose Paul?

Paul has the experience. He’s served longer in the House of Commons than all but one of the other leadership candidates.

Paul is a proven performer. He has been outstanding in one of the most challenging positions in caucus as NDP spokesperson for foreign affairs and is the best NDP critic in this position since Pauline Jewett back in the 1980s.

Paul has developed into an excellent local MP with strong local support – over three elections his share of the vote in Ottawa Centre has climbed from 37% to 52%.

Paul is an effective parliamentarian who is experienced at taking on Stephen Harper’s right-wing agenda. He is hard working, connects with voters, and knows and respects the NDP’s traditions and principles.

Paul will appeal to voters in Quebec. One in six of his constituents are francophones. Paul speaks French and is demonstrating a strong commitment to improve. And today the NDP has a first-rate group of 58 MPs in Quebec to work with Paul in building our grassroots base while the other federal parties in Quebec struggle to avoid extinction.

People trust Paul, they like Paul, and they respect him as a man with strong principles and a generous soul. He is a worthy successor to Jack Layton. I am proud to endorse Paul Dewar in his campaign to become the NDP’s next leader.

Mike Cassidy
MPP, Ottawa Centre, 1971-84.
MP, Ottawa Centre, 1984-88
Leader, Ontario New Democrats, 1979-82.