SoVote

Decentralized Democracy

House Hansard - 239

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
October 25, 2023 02:00PM
Context: House Hansard - 239 - Oct/25/23
Hon. David Lametti (LaSalle—Émard—Verdun, Lib.)
  • Oct/25/23 2:20:27 p.m.
  • Watch
Mr. Speaker, I rise today with the sad news that Canada has lost a loyal and faithful public servant. Our friend and colleague, Senator Ian Shugart, has left us after a battle with cancer. Ian was born in Ottawa and educated at Trinity College, U of T, before taking a degree in political economy. Ian cut his political teeth as a policy adviser to two Right Honourables, Joe Clark and Brian Mulroney. When the Conservatives were elected to govern in 1984, he first became a policy adviser and then chief of staff to Minister Jake Epp. During this time, he played a pivotal role in historic events, such as the patriation of the Constitution and the development of the charter, and working, among other things, on child care, labour market agreements and the Meech Lake accord. In 1991, Ian entered the public service, rising to many important roles, successive deputy minister positions, with a substantive impact in many areas, including health, labour, climate and global affairs. Finally, in 2019, he was named by the Prime Minister as the 24th Clerk of the Privy Council. He would serve in this role for two years, marked by the outset of a global pandemic, until his health forced him to step aside. When the situation looked more positive, in 2022, he returned to public service as a senator and with a deserved role at the Munk School. Ian's public service was punctuated not only by his intellect but also by his practical wisdom. I would add, too, his stability and kindness. As a rookie cabinet minister on some challenging files, I will always appreciate the many kind words from Ian before, after and sometimes during cabinet meetings, whether spoken or in the form of an encouraging note. On behalf of all Canadians, we are thankful for Ian's dedicated service to this country and to our public institutions. We thank him for his thoughtfulness. To Linda, family and friends, please accept our condolences. Rest in peace, friend.
335 words
  • Hear!
  • Rabble!
  • star_border