Layton’s official opposition ready to get to work

OTTAWA - New Democrat leader Jack Layton rallied his new MPs today, as he met with his much larger caucus by teleconference. Layton congratulated them on their success, and thanked them for their hard work in making the New Democrat’s historic second-place finish in this election possible.

“We could not have achieved this win without your dedication and hard work,” Layton said. “We are ready to get results for Canadian families and keep Mr. Harper accountable to Canadians.”

In the coming days, Layton will be working with his new team preparing for the next session of Parliament, including selecting his shadow cabinet.

“We have a strong new team and we need to find a place for each of them that demonstrates their strengths,” said Layton.

The new New Democrat caucus features returning, experienced MPs, strong voices from Quebec and a historic number of women.

“We have a lot of work to do and our strong dynamic team is getting to work right away,” said Layton’s long-time house leader, Libby Davies.

“I am very excited to get to work with all my new colleagues,” said Nycole Turmel, the former National President of PSAC and new MP for Hull—Aylmer. “We have a solid team and we can all learn from each other and each of our life experiences.”