Statement from former Saskatchewan Premier Roy Romanow

Dear friends,

I regret that I am not going to be able to join you in Ottawa this Sunday to honour Ed Broadbent. So please accept this brief note as my tribute to him.

Ed Broadbent led the federal NDP at a time when Canada faced some of its most difficult debates. Many came to a head during the constitutional discussions that led to the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Fundamental questions lay before us. How would we be governed — by legislatures or courts? How should the rights of women, First Nations, Quebec, Western Canada, and linguistic minorities by balanced and recognized? Would our country even stay together?

Ed Broadbent helped Canada navigate these issues. They were difficult and controversial — but the end result serves us well. We didn’t always agree to be sure. But I always admired the integrity Ed Broadbent brought to these debates. And to all his work as our federal leader during a long and successful career.

He made a sterling contribution to Canada.

I salute him; deeply respect him; and join you in mourning his passing.

Yours,
Roy Romanow