Tom Mulcair says Jack Harris would be 'key member' of NDP government
Federal NDP Leader Tom Mulcair was in St. John's Wednesday night for the acclamation of the party's sole nominee for the riding of St. John's East.
The riding is a stronghold for the NDP, with MP Jack Harris winning handily in the last two federal elections.
At the Bella Vista in St. John's on Wednesday, Mulcair told supporters that he expects Harris to win again in the next election, and to play a big role in the party caucus.
"He's an extraordinary friend and colleague, he's done a magnificent job in the House of Commons," he said. "Nothing would make me prouder than to have him as a key member of our team when we form Canada's first NDP government in October."
In 2008, Harris won St. John's East with almost 75 per cent of the vote. In 2011 he took about 71 per cent.
There were rumours that he wasn't going to run again, but on Wednesday night Harris put those rumours to rest.
"We need to end all possible speculation, mostly fomented by Liberals of course, that I wasn't running," he said.
"I'm here to say I humbly accept the nomination as the NDP candidate for St. John's East."
In comments to the media made after the official speeches, Mulcair said he feels at home in Newfoundland, and has complete faith in the two New Democratic MPs from Newfoundland.
"I've got two great colleagues in Jack Harris and Ryan Cleary," he said. "We've also got a great team across the country, literally from coast to coast."
Winds of change
Mulcair promised an NDP government would undo many of the changes the Conservatives have made — including cuts to the postal service and reorganization of federal pensions.
"Canadians are telling us one thing — that they want change after nearly 10 years of Stephen Harper," he said.
"They want to replace the politics of fear and division with the politics of hope."
Mulcair said a recent spike in support for the party shows that the winds of change are blowing in Newfoundland and Labrador — and across the country.
"We know that there's still four and a half months of hard work to do," he said.
"We've got a great positive offer on the table, and Canadians like what the NDP is showing."