Statement by Tom Mulcair on Olivia Chow’s resignation

“It is with mixed emotions that I mark the departure of the Member of Parliament for Trinity-Spadina today – my friend and colleague Olivia Chow. But our loss is Toronto's gain.

As a Member of Parliament, Olivia’s passion, competence and strength were evident as she defended the interests of Torontonians. As an NDP critic, she worked passionately on important files, including rail safety. A visionary, she has always been able to bring people together to get results – such as expanding Canadians’ powers of citizen’s arrest in the “Lucky Moose Bill”.

Olivia played a key role in welcoming me to the NDP. I will always remember when Catherine and I met with Jack Layton and Olivia Chow at Mon Village restaurant in Hudson. Deep and lasting ties were formed over that dinner. It was the beginning of a wonderful adventure that continues today.

We wish Olivia all the best in her future pursuits. Olivia Chow is a fighter who will always defend the public’s interest first and foremost. On behalf of New Democrats everywhere, I thank her wholeheartedly for her constant support and her important contributions to making Canada a fairer, more prosperous country.”