Miramichi, New Brunswick – "On the eve of the opening of Parliament it’s on a sad note that Members of Parliament will return to Ottawa after the death of Jack Layton on August, 22.

I was very saddened at the news.  He was a politician of great magnitude with good values.  There will be a great void in the House of Commons and the entire political class is in mourning. On behalf of all citizens of Miramichi, I welcome the contribution of Jack in public life, a contribution that will be greatly missed.

I offer my deepest condolences to his wife Olivia, his family and colleagues.  Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time. "