Nova Scotia NDP looking for new leader

Gary Burrill is stepping down as leader of the Nova Scotia NDP but will continue to serve as MLA for Halifax Chebucto.

Burrill was first elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly in 2009 and became leader of the party in 2016.

“It is the right time for us to renew our leadership so as to build towards the next election on the basis of these strengths,” Burrill said Tuesday in a media release.

One of the most important parts of leadership is knowing when the time has come for renewal, and knowing when to bring your own leadership to a conclusion. In my judgement, this is that time. (1/3)

— Gary Burrill (@GaryBurrill) November 9, 2021

Burrill said his caucus achieved several accomplishments recently, including extended rent control and a commission on environmental racism.

Burrill will remain leader until the party chooses a replacement.

The NDP won six seats in last summer’s provincial election, two fewer than before.

In a news release, Premier Tim Houston said Burrill has always had Nova Scotians’ best interest in mind even if they have not always agreed on policy.

Liberal Leader Iain Rankin recognized Burrill for his “genuine advocacy.”

“Gary Burrill has been a consistent voice on the issues that matter most to Nova Scotians,”  Rankin said in a media release.

Federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh thanked Burrill for all the work he has done for Nova Scotians.

Thank you @GaryBurrill for your friendship, your leadership, and for fighting to make life better for Nova Scotians.

New Democrats are proud and thankful for the work you’ve done.

All the best my friend. Thank you for working for Nova Scotians. pic.twitter.com/DkAq3204FY

— Jagmeet Singh (@theJagmeetSingh) November 9, 2021