Statement from Victoria Federal NDP Executive on Denise Savoie

VICTORIA – Victoria federal NDP president Erik Kaye released the following statement today:

“I know I speak for all Victoria NDP members and supporters, as well as Victoria constituents of all political stripes, in thanking Denise Savoie for her many years of service to our community. In a time of cynicism and negativity about electoral politics, Denise demonstrated time and again that a local MP can make a difference in people’s lives.

Denise is widely known for providing effective service to her constituents, pushing for federal action on critical issues like climate change, post-secondary education and child care, and delivering much-needed federal infrastructure funding for major local projects. Above all, Denise values direct contact with voters and never fails to respond to an e-mail or return a phone call, whether in Ottawa or Victoria.

On a personal level, Denise will be missed by all of us who had the pleasure of knowing her and working with her. After serving nearly 7 years in the House of Commons and two terms on Victoria City Council prior to her election as MP, we wish Denise Savoie the very best of luck as she returns to private life.

Over 3 elections in 5 years, Denise has increased the NDP share of the vote in Victoria from 38% in 2006 to 51% in 2011. She leaves the Victoria NDP riding association with a strong and growing support base, with sound finances and organization in place for the upcoming by-election.

The Victoria NDP Executive will meet in early September to set the date and finalize the nomination rules to choose the NDP candidate for the upcoming federal by-election in Victoria.”

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Media Contact: Erik Kaye, president@victoriandp.ca.