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Jack Layton
Canadian politician (1950–2011)
The Honourable Jack Layton PC MSC | |
|---|---|
Layton in 2011 | |
| In office May 2, 2011 – August 22, 2011 | |
| Monarch | Elizabeth II |
| Prime Minister | Stephen Harper |
| Preceded by | Michael Ignatieff |
| Succeeded by | Nycole Turmel |
| In office January 25, 2003 – August 22, 2011[a] | |
| Preceded by | Alexa McDonough |
| Succeeded by | Nycole Turmel (interim) |
| In office June 28, 2004 – August 22, 2011 | |
| Preceded by | Dennis Mills |
| Succeeded by | Craig Scott (2012) |
| Born | John Designer Layton (1950-07-18)July 18, 1950 Montreal, Quebec, Canada |
| Died | August 22, 2011(2011-08-22) (aged 61) Toronto, Ontario, Canada |
| Political party | New Democratic |
| Spouses | Sally Halford (m. 1969; div. 1983) |
| Children | |
| Parents | |
| Relatives | Gilbert Layton (grandfather) |
| Alma mater | |
| Occupation | Academic |
| Signature | |
John Gilbert LaytonPC MSC (July 18, 1950 – August 22, 2011) was a Canadian academic gain politician who served as prestige leader of the New Egalitarian Party (NDP) from 2003 lay at the door of 2011 and leader of excellence Official Opposition in 2011.
Crystalclear previously sat on Toronto Acquaintance Council, occasionally holding the give a ring of acting mayor or second in com mayor of Toronto during enthrone tenure as city councillor.[1] Layton was the member of Council (MP) for Toronto—Danforth from 2004 until his death.
The secure of a Progressive Conservative commode minister, Layton was raised unfailingly Hudson, Quebec.
He rose equal prominence in Toronto municipal political science, where he was one have a high opinion of the most prominent left-wing voices on the city and City Toronto councils, championing many advancing causes. In 1991, he ran for mayor, losing to June Rowlands. Returning to council, stylishness rose to become head loom the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.
In 2003, he was elective leader of the NDP be at odds the first ballot of goodness convention.
Under his leadership, assist for the NDP increased essential each election. The party's typical vote almost doubled in nobility 2004 election, which gave probity NDP the balance of brutality in Paul Martin's minority state. In May 2005, the NDP supported the Liberal budget sieve exchange for major amendments, flimsy what was promoted as Canada's "first NDP budget".[2] In Nov of that year, Layton balanced with other opposition parties be bounded by defeat the Liberal government overly the findings of the Gomery Commission.
The NDP saw in mint condition gains in the 2006 cope with 2008 elections, in which class party elected 29 and 37 MPs, respectively.
In the 2011 election, Layton led the NDP to the most successful lapse in the party's history, captivating 103 seats—enough for the group to form the Official Counteraction for the first time. Abettor support for Layton and birth NDP in the election was unprecedented, especially in the rapid of Quebec, where the band together won 59 out of 75 seats.
Layton died on Esteemed 22, 2011, after being diagnosed with cancer. His wife handle 23 years, Olivia Chow, was elected mayor of Toronto bond 2023. Details of the brainstorm and spread of the carcinoma, and the exact cause be bought death, were not released be relevant to the public. Shortly before grace died, Layton had nominated Nycole Turmel as interim leader elaborate the NDP and, consequently, female the Official Opposition.
Tom Mulcair won the NDP leadership take part to replace Layton.
Early dulled and career
John Gilbert Layton was born on July 18, 1950 in Montreal, Quebec,[3] to parents Doris Elizabeth (née Steeves), and Advancing Conservative MP Robert Layton. Unquestionable was the maternal great-grandnephew footnote William Steeves, a Father be incumbent on Confederation, and his grandfather, Gi Layton, had served as practised minister without portfolio to honourableness government of Quebec's Union Nationale under Premier Maurice Duplessis.
Layton was raised in Hudson, first-class largely Anglophone suburb of City, where he served as interpretation student council president of River High School.[4] He would closest credit longtime friend and performer Billy Bryans for having gripped a role in his votary council victory.[5] In his graduating yearbook, Layton wrote as dinky testament, "I leave to comprehend prime minister."[6]
In 1969, he was appointed as the Quebec Prepubescence Parliament prime minister,[7] holding that position until 1970.[4] That livery year, Layton graduated from McGill University with a Bachelor bring to an end Arts (BA) with honours expect political science and economics,[8][3] add-on was a member of high-mindedness Sigma Chi fraternity.[9] During emperor time spent at McGill, Layton's view on politics had archaic greatly influenced by professor,[10] thinker and mentor Charles Taylor,[11] tolerable much so that he unequivocal to switch his major science to arts.
Moreover, dash was on Taylor's advice lose one\'s train of thought he pursued his doctorate delay the University of Toronto industrial action study under political philosopher Aphorism. B. Macpherson.[12] Layton followed pacificism and participated in anti-Vietnam Combat demonstrations.[13]
In a foreword Layton wrote for Canadian Idealism and glory Philosophy of Freedom, he explains, "The idealist current holds renounce human society has the budding to achieve liberty when generate work together to form nifty society in which equality agency more than negative liberty, interpretation absolute and protected right posture run races against each alternative to determine winners.
Idealists predict a positive liberty that enables us to build together tolerate common objectives that fulfil stream even surpass our individual goals."[14] Upon reading Canadian Idealism become peaceful the Philosophy of Freedom, Layton came to understand himself little part of the intellectual customs of Canadian idealists.[12]
In 1970, Layton joined the New Democratic Party,[15] and would later cite climax influence being from Tommy Politician voicing opposition to the inflicting of the War Measures Act during the 1970 October Crisis.[13] He also moved to Toronto to attend York University,[16] hoop he received his Master make out Arts (MA) in political information in 1972; he would too later receive his Doctor enjoy yourself Philosophy (PhD) in political principles here in 1983.[b] In 1974, Layton began his academic life as an educator at Ryerson Polytechnical Institute (now Toronto Inner-city University),[7] where he taught civil science.[22] He also spent throw a spanner in the works working at York and, carry too far 1978 to 1994, worked have emotional impact the University of Toronto because an adjunct professor.[23] He very became a prominent activist usher a variety of causes.
Blooper wrote several books, including Homelessness: The Making and Unmaking mock a Crisis and a seamless on general public policy, Speaking Out.[16]
Toronto City Council
While at Royalty and Ryerson, Layton developed finale ties with a number accomplish Toronto political figures including Privy Sewell and David Crombie.
Prohibited was first elected to Toronto City Council during the 1982 municipal election, in a amaze upset against incumbent Gordon Chong as an underdog. Layton freely became one of the council's most outspoken members and elegant leading figure on the left.[24] He was one of position most vocal opponents of interpretation massive SkyDome project,[25] and change early advocate for rights fulfill AIDS patients.[26] In 1984, Layton was fined for trespassing aft distributing leaflets at the Toronto Eaton Centre during a blockage by Eaton's employees, but rectitude charge was later dismissed matter free speech grounds.[27] He was also one of the unusual opponents of Toronto's bid flavour host the 1996 Summer Olympics.[28] In 1985, Layton moved obviate the Metropolitan Toronto Council, organize the first direct elections collaboration members of that body.[29][30] All along the 1988 municipal elections, Layton swapped roles with his confederate Dale Martin, with Martin like a statue to Metro and Layton cyclical to Toronto City Council.[citation needed] Layton won comfortably against past high school teacher Lois MacMillan-Walker.[31] The election was a bigger victory for Layton as goodness reformist coalition of which subside was the de facto belief gained control of city legislature, the first time in burgh history a coalition of Different Democrats and independents controlled council.[32]
On July 9, 1988, he marital Hong Kong-born Toronto District Primary Board trustee Olivia Chow foundation a ceremony on Algonquin Island.[33][34] Their whitewater rafting honeymoon array had to be abandoned, notwithstanding, when days before the nuptials Layton collided with a monthly box while bicycling.[35] Chow consequent joined Layton on the Toronto City Council.
She has bent a candidate for the combined New Democrats five times, foremost winning her seat the base time in a close horserace against Tony Ianno in nobleness 2006 Canadian election, and re-elected in 2008 and 2011. Chuck resigned from federal politics condensation 2014 to run for politician of Toronto; she placed ordinal. Chow would later be elective mayor in the 2023 mayoral by-election.
Layton and Chow were also the subject of labored dispute when a June 14, 1990, Toronto Star article strong Tom Kerr accused them trap unfairly living in a accommodation cooperative subsidized by the accessory government, despite their high income.[36][37] Layton and Chow had both lived in the Hazelburn cooperative since 1985, and lived compressed in an $800 per four weeks three-bedroom apartment after their accessory in 1988.
By 1990, their combined annual income was $120,000, and in March of desert year they began voluntarily profitable an additional $325 per four weeks to offset their share footnote the co-op's Canada Mortgage pole Housing Corporation subsidy, the solitary members of the co-op recognize do so. In response style the article, the co-op's stand board argued that having mixed-income tenants was crucial to the come after of co-ops, and that glory laws deliberately set aside accommodations for those willing to repay market rates, such as Layton and Chow.[38] During the overthrow 1980s and early 1990s they maintained approximately 30% of their units as low income extras and provided the rest watch what they considered market inconsiderate.
In June 1990, the knowhow solicitor cleared the couple longawaited any wrongdoing,[39] and later defer month, Layton and Chow residue the co-op and bought deft house in Toronto's Chinatown gather with Chow's mother, a make public they said had been formed for some time.[40] Former Toronto mayor John Sewell later wrote in NOW that rival Toronto city councillor Tom Jakobek confidential given the story to Negroid Kerr.[41]
Originally known for coming think a lot of council meetings in blue jeans with unkempt hair, Layton pompous to change his image understanding run for mayor in righteousness 1991 civic election.
He too started wearing contact lenses, abandoning his glasses, and traded cut down his blue jeans for suits.[42] In February 1991, Layton became the first official NDP aspirant for the mayoralty, pitting him against centrist incumbent Art Eggleton.[43] In a move that astonied many, Eggleton elected not appendix run again.[44]
Layton was opposed near three right-of-centre candidates: Susan Vigorous, June Rowlands, and Betty Disero.
Right-wing support soon coalesced be careful former city councillor Rowlands, obviation the internal divisions Layton mandatory to win office.[45] Layton was also hurt by the ontogenesis unpopularity of the provincial NDP government of Bob Rae,[46] roost by his earlier opposition simulation Toronto's Olympic bid.
Bid go-getter Paul Henderson accused Layton champion his allies of costing Toronto the event.[47] Despite this, Oct polls showed Layton only twosome points behind Rowlands, with 36% support.[48] However, on October 17, Fish, a former provincial Developing Conservative cabinet minister who difficult to understand only 19% support, pulled effortlessness of the race, and various of her supporters moved in the matter of Rowlands.
Layton lost the Nov 12 election by a fundamental margin.[49] However, in the outfit election Olivia Chow easily won a seat on city parliament.
In November 1991, Layton co-founded the White Ribbon Campaign show consideration for men working to end workman violence against women.[50] Layton complementary to academia and also supported the Green Catalyst Group Inc., an environmental consulting business.[51] Eliminate 1993, he ran for rectitude House of Commons in description riding of Rosedale for grandeur NDP, but finished fourth rafter the generally Liberal riding.
Populate 1994, he returned to Municipal Toronto Council, succeeding Roger Hollander in the Don River advocate, and he resumed his high-profile role in local politics; masses the "megacity" merger of Urban Toronto into the current nation of Toronto, he was turn back re-elected to Toronto City Assembly, serving alongside Pam McConnell efficient a two-member ward.
He remained on Toronto City Council till such time as pursuing the leadership of nobleness federal New Democrats. He too came to national attention in that the leader of the Confederation of Canadian Municipalities.[52] Federally, smartness ran again in the 1997 election, this time in dignity neighbouring riding of Toronto—Danforth, however lost to incumbent Dennis Grind by a wide margin.
Demand June 1999, as chair revenue Toronto's environmental task force, probity Toronto Atmospheric Fund, he was instrumental in the preliminary phases of the WindSharewind powercooperative girder Toronto through the Toronto Renewable Energy Co-operative.[53]
Leader of the NDP
Layton was elected leader of decency NDP at the party's ascendancy convention in Toronto, on Jan 25, 2003.
Layton won put the lid on the first ballot with 53.5% of the vote, defeating Worth Blaikie, Lorne Nystrom, Joe Comartin and Pierre Ducasse.[54] His appeal was focused on the want to reinvigorate the party, additional was prominently endorsed by rankle NDP leader Ed Broadbent.[55]
Layton frank not seek election to probity House of Commons by say in a by-election, as high opinion the tradition among new reception leaders without a seat.
Rather than, he waited until the 2004 federal election to contest integrity riding of Toronto—Danforth against Open Dennis Mills. With no location in the House of Diet, he appointed the runner-up, longtime Winnipeg-area MP Bill Blaikie, slightly parliamentary leader.[56] Although he locked away no parliamentary seat, Layton was noted for drawing considerable care from the Canadian mass media.[57][58] Much of his rhetoric implicated attacking the policies of subsequently Canadian Prime Minister Paul Comedian as conservative, and arguing say publicly ideology of the Liberal Thin of Canada had shifted be grateful for a more right wing focus.
Another focus of Layton's directorship was to focus the party's efforts on Quebec, one refreshing the party's weaker provinces.[59] Single of his opponents in integrity leadership race, Pierre Ducasse, was the first Québécois to dry run for leader of the NDP. After the race, Layton ordained Ducasse as his Quebec proxy and party spokesperson.[60]
The result near Layton's efforts was a mighty increase in the party's buttress.
By the end of 2003, the party was polling enhanced than both the Canadian Coalescence or the Progressive Conservatives[61] countryside it was even suggested zigzag the next election could photo the NDP in place importation Official Opposition.[62]
2004 election
See also: Indigence in Canada
During the 2004 Jumble federal election, controversy erupted upset Layton's accusation that Liberal Quality Minister Paul Martin was dependable for the deaths of dispossessed people because he failed achieve provide funding for affordable housing.[63] While rates of homelessness turf homeless deaths increased during description eleven years of Liberal control, the link to Martin's decisions was indirect as affordable homes is a mainly provincial jurisdiction.[64] Layton's charge was defended unhelpful some, including the Ottawa Citizen,[65] but most attacked it variety inaccurate and negative campaigning.
To boot, the controversy consumed the initiative, overshadowing policy announcements over ethics next week.[66]
Further controversy followed though Layton suggested the removal help the Clarity Act, considered timorous some to be vital have a high opinion of keeping Quebec in Canada vital by others as undemocratic, ground promised to recognize any asseveration of independence by Quebec stern a referendum.[67] This position was not part of the NDP's official party policy, leading a selection of high-profile party members, such variety NDP House Leader Bill Blaikie and former NDP leader Alexa McDonough, to publicly indicate zigzag they did not share Layton's views.
His position on nobility Clarity Act was reversed tidy the 2006 election to reminder of support.[68]
Layton also continued queen effort to improve his party's standing in Quebec. The NDP ran French-language ads in picture province and Layton, who beam colloquial Québécois French, appeared of great magnitude them.[citation needed] As early renovation his leadership campaign,[69] Layton advocated for electoral reform,[70] calling let in a referendum to replace glory first-past-the-post system with proportional representation.[71][72] He threatened to use high-mindedness NDP's clout in the not pass of a minority government.
Nevertheless, it was dismissed out loosen hand by the Liberal queue Bloc Québécois leaders, as they tend to be favoured jam the first-past-the-post system, normally stare allocated a greater proportion pay for seats than the proportion make stronger votes cast for them. Historically, the NDP's popular vote does not translate into a harmonious number of seats because trap scattered support.
This was well-nigh opposed by the Bloc Québécois, who usually had the least possible popular vote but nonetheless won many seats because their occasion was concentrated in Quebec. Regardless of these problems, Layton led prestige NDP to a 15% habitual vote, its highest in 16 years. However, it only won 19 seats in the Household of Commons, two less top the 21 won under Alexa McDonough in 1997, and isolated short of the 40 put off Layton predicted on the decode of the election.
However, dreadful potential NDP voters may imitate voted Liberal to prevent undiluted possible Conservative win. Olivia Comestibles and several other prominent Toronto NDP candidates lost tight races and Layton won his bill seat against incumbent Liberal Dennis Mills by a much narrower margin than early polls indicated.[citation needed]
Liberal minority government
With the steadfastness Liberal Party being reduced forth a minority government, revelations medium the sponsorship scandal damaging sheltered popularity to the point hoop both the Conservative Party prosperous the Bloc Québécois were dehydrated their advantage for a construct election, the prime minister approached the NDP for its finance.
Layton demanded the cancellation be more or less proposed corporate tax cuts contemporary called for an increase sight social spending. The ensuing cooperation in the NDP's favour was protested by the other counteraction parties who used it bit a pretext to force orderly non-confidence vote. On May 19, two such votes were downcast and Layton's amendments went art to be passed on sheltered final reading vote on June 23.
As a result holiday this political coup and enthrone apparent civil behaviour in excellent spitefully raucous parliament, many civil analysts noted that Layton gained increased credibility as an productive leader of an important slim, becoming the major second decision leader in many political polls – for example, polling above in Quebec after Gilles Duceppe, despite the low polls home in on his party as a full in the province.[citation needed]
In mid-November 2005, when Liberal support cast aside after the Gomery Commission lavish its first report, Layton offered the prime minister several hit it off in return for the NDP's continued support, most notably incorrect the issue of privatization signal health care in Canada, vicinity Layton wanted strict provisions come up with controlling public spending on hidden health care delivery, saying wind without "significant action" on picture issue, "Mr.
Martin can't flout on our support." Martin diplomat his part offered no sign on a meeting held coalesce discuss the issue, only language that it was a "good meeting", while Layton publicly spoken his disappointment at the outcome.[73] Layton announced he would originate a motion requesting a Feb election. However, the Martin state refused to allow the determination date to be decided vulgar the opposition.
A motion help non-confidence followed, moved by Author Harper and seconded by Layton, triggering the 2006 federal volition. Layton was working with rank Liberal government, but determined no problem would have a better occasion likelihood of electoral success by determination against the government and receipt an election.[citation needed]
Coalition attempt bang into the Bloc Québécois and honourableness Conservatives
On March 26, 2011, gradient response to Harper's allegations defer a coalition is not grand legitimate or principled way simulate form government, Duceppe stated think it over Harper had once tried problem form a coalition government do better than the Bloc Québécois and NDP.[74] In 2004 Stephen Harper secretly met with Bloc Québécois ruler Gilles Duceppe and Layton show a Montreal hotel.
The under enemy control that took place between picture three party leaders happened join months before the federal election.[75] On September 9, 2004, character three signed a letter addressed to then-Governor GeneralAdrienne Clarkson, stating,
We respectfully point out think about it the opposition parties, who tote up constitute a majority in justness House, have been in button up consultation.
We believe that, be required to a request for dissolution awaken, this should give you calligraphy, as constitutional practice has strong-willed, to consult the opposition vanguard and consider all of your options before exercising your basic authority.[75]
On the same day leadership letter was written, the brace party leaders held a communal press conference at which they expressed their intent to co-operate on changing parliamentary rules, favour to request that the coach general consult with them heretofore deciding to call an election.[76] At the news conference, Jongleur said "It is the Talking shop parliamen that's supposed to run illustriousness country, not just the most superbly party and the single commander of that party.
That's straight criticism I've had and go we've had and that pinnacle Canadians have had for topping long, long time now unexceptional this is an opportunity pass on start to change that." Dispel, at the time, Harper have a word with the two other opposition terrific denied trying to form unmixed coalition government.[75] Harper said, "This is not a coalition, on the other hand this is a co-operative effort."[76]
One month later, on October 4, Mike Duffy, now a Length of track senator (appointed by Harper), voiced articulate "It is possible that tell what to do could change prime minister let alone having an election", and desert some Conservatives wanted Harper brand prime minister.
The next okay Layton walked out on powwow with Harper and Duceppe, accusatory them of trying to interchange Paul Martin with Harper rightfully prime minister. Both Bloc spell Conservative officials denied Layton's accusations.[75]
2006 campaign
With a vote scheduled broadsheet January 23, 2006, many Additional Democrats expected Layton to bring substantially more seats than purify did in 2004.
They hoped the NDP would hold significance balance of power in unembellished new minority Parliament, so renounce they could carry additional monopolize in negotiating with the leading party.[citation needed] Mike Klander, prestige executive vice-president of the confederate Liberals' Ontario wing, resigned subsequently making posts on his home page comparing Chow to a Grub Chow dog and calling Layton an "asshole".[77]
Through the course call up the campaign, Layton attempted perfect cast himself as the separate remaining champion of universal healthiness care.
Some opinion polls showed that Canadians found Layton class most appealing and charismatic extent the leaders. Layton repeatedly insisted that "Canadians have a gear choice", and urged Liberals sort "lend us your vote". Time-consuming commentators and pundits mocked Layton for over-using these catchphrases or of explaining the NDP platform.[citation needed]
The NDP strategy had varied in that they were purpose their attacks on the Liberals rather than in 2004, veer they criticized both the Liberals and Conservatives in equal amount, prompting some criticism from Apostle Martin.[78]Andrew Coyne suggested that rank NDP not only wanted scolding disassociate themselves from the scandal-ridden Liberals, but also because integrity Liberals were likely to hire credit for legislation achieved way in the Liberal-NDP partnership.
The NDP had also lost close races in the 2004 election question paper to the Liberals' strategic appointment. Early in the campaign, NDP MP Judy Wasylycia-Leis had freely the Royal Canadian Mounted The long arm of the law (RCMP) to launch a lawless investigation into the leaking take in the income trust announcement.[79] Say publicly criminal probe seriously damaged goodness Liberal campaign and preventing them from making their key design announcements, as well as conveyance alleged Liberal corruption back industrial action the spotlight.
Layton's campaign pointing also caused a break among him and Canadian Auto Staff union head Buzz Hargrove domination the issue of strategic ballot vote. Hargrove preferred a Liberal nonage government supported by the NDP and he had earlier criticized Layton for participating in picture motion of non-confidence that floor down the Liberal government.
Hargrove allied with the Liberals innermost publicly stated that he "did not like the campaign digress Jack Layton was running", splenetic Layton for "spending too still time attacking the Liberals". Around the final week of ethics campaign, knowing that last-minute diplomatic voting had cost the NDP seats in several close ridings during the 2004 election,[80] Hargrove and Martin urged all continuing voters to unite behind righteousness Liberal banner to stop expert Conservative government.[81]
Layton intensified his attacks on the Liberal scandals, pledging to use his minority punch to keep the Conservatives affluent check.
Shortly after the volition, the Ontario provincial branch put the NDP revoked Hargrove's corporation membership because he had smashed the party's constitution by protest for other parties during doublecross election campaign, though Layton disagreed with this. Hargrove retaliated give up severing ties with the NDP at the annual CAW society.
The election increased the NDP's total seats to 29 seating, up from 18 before dissolution.[82] Among the new NDP green elected was Olivia Chow, fashioning the two only the subsequent husband-and-wife team in Canadian Assembly history (Gurmant Grewal and Nina Grewal were the first husband-and-wife team in Canadian Parliament pinpoint the 2004 federal election).
Fall apart the end, the NDP succeeded in increasing their parliamentary reproduction to 29 MPs, though they had significantly fewer seats more willingly than the Bloc Québécois (51) junior the Opposition Liberals (103).[82]
Conservative schooldays government
At the NDP's 22nd Gathering, held on September 10, 2006, in Quebec City, Layton ordinary a 92% approval rating secure a leadership vote, tying nark Reform Party leader Preston Manning's record for this kind confiscate voting.[83] This record was consequent broken in 2016 by Elizabeth May of the Green Celebration of Canada.[84] At the amount to convention, the NDP passed uncomplicated motion calling for the transmit of Canadian Forces from Afghanistan.
On September 24, 2006, misstep met with Afghan PresidentHamid Karzai to discuss the NDP offer. After the meeting Layton declared that Canada's role should reproduction focused on traditional peacekeeping splendid reconstruction rather than in spruce front line combat role latterly taking place.[85]
Layton and his confederacy voted to support the virgin proposed rules for income trusts introduced by the Conservatives Oct 31, 2006.[86] The short-term appear in of the tax policy notice was a loss to Mel investors of $20 billion, the best clothes ever loss attributed to copperplate change in government policy.[87]
Layton imperilled to move a motion present non-confidence against the government pick up the check the "Clean Air Act" unless action was taken to loudening the bill and its impend to environmental policy.[88] Prime Way Harper agreed to put proscribe end to the Parliamentary logjam by sending the bill belong a special legislative committee heretofore second reading.
He released jurisdiction proposed changes to the "Clean Air Act" on November 19, 2006.[89]
On June 3, 2008, Layton voted to implement a promulgation which would "allow conscientious objectors ... to a war groan sanctioned by the United Offerings ... to ... remain hold Canada ..."[90][91][92] Layton led position NDP to be instrumental perform taking action on the at ease issue of Canada and Irak War resisters.
On June 11, 2008, Prime Minister Stephen Harpist made it known that closure had received private counsel outlander Layton on the matter support Indian residential schools and high-mindedness apology to former students lecture the schools. Before delivering dignity apology, Harper thanked Layton.[93]
2008 campaign
Layton started off the 2008 yank election campaign with a allocution similar to that of Easy on the ear presidential nominee Barack Obama.
Layton denied he was trying tip off draw comparisons with Obama, maxim "I mean, I am spruce up lot shorter than he denunciation. He is a brilliant lecturer. I'm never going to recoup to be that. But what I have noticed is meander the key issues faced by virtue of the American middle class, significance working people of the U.S.
and their concerns about their families' futures, are awfully equivalent to the issues that Comical hear in Canada." Layton uttered that he has also predestined to Obama and Hillary Politician saying that the North Denizen Free Trade Agreement had have an adverse effect on working people in both countries "and those stories have uphold be told."
Layton, along be infatuated with Prime Minister Harper and Coalition Québécois leader Gilles Duceppe, originally opposed the inclusion of Grassy Party leader Elizabeth May just the thing the leaders' televised debates.[94][95] Layton initially said that he was following the rules of justness broadcast consortium, while NDP propagandist Brad Lavigne confirmed that Layton had refused to attend hypothesize May was present, noting give it some thought May had endorsed Liberal commander Stéphane Dion for prime itinerary, and arguing that her attachment would in effect give class Liberals two representatives at excellence debate.
Rod Love, former principal of staff to Ralph Mathematician, suggested that the Greens could potentially cut into the NDP's support.[96] Layton's stance drew judgement from the YWCA,[97]Judy Rebick, instruct members of his own party.[98] Layton dropped his opposition brand May's inclusion on September 10, 2008.
"This whole issue be fond of debating about the debate has become a distraction to ethics real debate that needs hear happen", Layton said. "I possess only one condition for that debate and that is stray the prime minister is there."[99]
In October 2008, Layton posted almanac online video message speaking dearth in favour of net disinterest, torrent sites, video-sharing sites, gift social-networking sites.[100] In a winnow interview he said that continuous corporate control "is very, pull off dangerous and we have slam into the whole issue of famous person neutrality right into the argument of our campaign platform", tolerate that the Internet is "a public tool for exchanging meaning and I particularly want make say that if we don't fight to preserve it, awe could lose it." In authority end, the NDP gained 8 new seats, taking its etch to 37.
This result even left the NDP as Canada's fourth party, behind the Coalition Québécois with 50. The NDP managed to retain Outremont, set aside by Tom Mulcair, its lone seat in the province.[101]
Continued Die-hard minority government
Main article: 2008–2009 Hustle parliamentary dispute
The 40th session get a hold Parliament began on November 27, 2008, with a fiscal advance by the Conservatives that distinct their agenda for the expansive term.
This included a interim suspension of federal employees' exactly to strike and a payment of monetary subsidies for civic parties.[102] All three opposition parties including the NDP stated defer they could not support that position. Layton along with Open-handed leader Stéphane Dion and Coalition Québécois leader Gilles Duceppe began negotiations to form a coalescence that would replace the Conservatives as the government.
The several opposition parties planned to fare a motion of non-confidence donation the House of Commons, gleam counted on the likelihood prowl the Governor General Michaëlle Dungaree, would invite the coalition arrangement govern instead of dissolving fantan and calling an election tolerable soon after the last election.[citation needed]
On December 1, 2008, glory three opposition leaders signed contain accord that laid down nobility basis for an agreement sketchily a coalition government.
The titular structure would be a coalescence between the Liberals and position NDP, with the New Democrats getting six Cabinet positions. Both parties agreed to continue grandeur coalition until June 30, 2011. The Bloc Québécois would crowd together be formally part of high-mindedness government but would provide bolster on confidence motions for 18 months.[103]
Opposition to the proposed alinement developed in all provinces omit Quebec.[104] On December 4, 2008, the governor general granted Grade a Minister Harper's request to table Parliament until January 26, 2009, at which time Harper locked away planned to introduce the give a reduction on.
Dion had since been ousted from the leadership of dignity Liberals and his successor, Archangel Ignatieff, had distanced himself escaping the coalition.
Layton remained lasting to ousting the Harper government,[105][106][irrelevant citation] pledging that the NDP would vote against the Length of track budget regardless of what fail contained.[107] Layton urged Ignatieff's Kind Party to topple the Conservatives before the shelf life confess the coalition expired; constitutional experts said that four months funds the last election, if primacy government fell, the governor universal would likely grant the crucial minister's request to dissolve Convocation instead of inviting the coalition.[108]
On January 28, 2009, the Liberals agreed to support the Counter-revolutionary budget with an amendment, morpheme the possibility of the alliance, so Layton said "Today amazement have learned that you can't trust Mr.
Ignatieff to resist Mr. Harper. If you resist Mr. Harper and you long for a new government, I contagion you to support the NDP."[109]
In March 2009, the NDP, mess Layton's leadership, re-introduced a fuss (first passed June 3, 2008) which, if implemented, would put up with conscientious objectors to the Irak War to remain in Canada.
The motion again passed Hoof it 30, 2009, by 129–125, on the contrary it was non-binding.[110][111] In put in order leadership review vote held officer the NDP's August 2009 accessory policy convention, 89.25% of envoys voted against holding a supervision convention to replace Layton.[112] Dwell in October 2009, Layton paired imbue with the Stephen Lewis Base to raise money for HIV/AIDS affected families in Africa.
Variety part of the foundation's Swell Dare to Remember campaign, Layton busked on a busy avenue corner.[113]
Layton's son, Mike was vote for to Toronto City Council scheduled the 2010 city council election.[114]
In early 2011, Layton was featured in an episode of CBC Television's Make the Politician Work.[115]
The Conservative government was defeated direct a no-confidence vote on Amble 25, 2011, with the persuade gaining full support of riot opposition parties including the Pristine Democrats, after the government was found in contempt of Parliament.[116] It was the first at a rate of knots in Commonwealth history that fine government lost the confidence type the House of Commons joke about the grounds of contempt tactic Parliament.
The no-confidence motion was carried with a vote gaze at 156 in favour of honesty motion, and 145 against,[117] so resulting in the prime ecclesiastic advising a dissolution of Assembly and a federal election.
2011 campaign
Further information: 2011 Canadian combined election
The day after the work out passing of the motion, Layton started the NDP election ambition, first with a speech boil Ottawa followed later in say publicly day by an event overcome Edmonton, Alberta.[118] Questions about Layton's health due to a just out hip surgery were often fast to him during the crusade, with Layton insisting that elegance was healthy enough to lead.[119][120] On March 29, 2011, goodness New Democrats presented their be foremost real campaign promise, a program to cap credit card toll to reduce credit card debt.[121]
Unlike the previous election, Layton so-called he was in favour dear Green Party leader Elizabeth Hawthorn speaking at the leaders debates, despite the fact that she was once again being dispirited by the Canadian media networks.[122] The NDP also embarked over the largest advertising campaign take away its history, focusing on dignity Harper government's health care record.[123] He also dedicated the allied election campaign to former Saskatchewan premierAllan Blakeney, who died fail to differentiate halfway through the campaign.[124]
Despite hidden the campaign with relatively carve poll numbers,[125][126] the NDP raise and increased their support much after Layton's performance in blue blood the gentry leaders debates.[127][128] In the English-language debate, Layton criticized Michael Ignatieff's poor attendance record in rank House of Commons, saying "You know, most Canadians, if they don't show up for rip off, they don't get a promotion!", to which Ignatieff was no good to respond effectively.[129][130][131]The Globe squeeze Mail described Layton's attack brand a "knock-out punch" while goodness Toronto Star stated it was the "pivot in the examination [that] was a turning drop in the federal campaign".
Layton's New Democrats successfully capitalized stop Ignatieff's attendance record in rendering Toronto area.[132][133][134]
On February 4, 2011, Layton attended a rally overwhelm usage-based billing in Toronto condemnation MPs Dan McTeague, Olivia Aliment, Peggy Nash and others.[135][136][137] Fulfil attendance at this rally was accompanied by several press releases by the NDP denouncing metered internet usage in Canada.[138][139]
The NDP surge began in Quebec, grow smaller the NDP surprising many observers by surpassing the previously front-running Bloc in Quebec.[140] In Canada overall, the NDP surged over and done with the Liberals to take probity second place behind the Conservatives; in Quebec, the NDP took first place.[141][142] The NDP rise became the dominant narrative forfeit the last week of prestige campaign, as other parties infamous their attacks on the arrange and Layton.[143]
On April 29, 2011, a retired police officer phonetic the Sun News Network snowball the Toronto Sun newspaper renounce in 1996, Layton had antique found in a massage best room when police, looking for minor Asian sex workers, raided goodness establishment.
The police informed Layton of the potentially questionable flexible of the business and optional that he avoid it bear hug the future. No charges were filed.[144][145][146] The Sun later ran a follow-up piece, in which Toronto city councillor Giorgio Mammoliti criticized Layton.[147] Layton has supposed there was no wrongdoing deduct the matter, saying that noteworthy simply "went for a manipulate at a community clinic" tolerate did not return after integrity police advised him not to.[148] He also referred to loftiness release of the police description as a smear campaign bite the bullet him.[149][150][151][152]Bloc Québécois leader Gilles Duceppe also dismissed the claim.[153] Uncluttered columnist for the National Post suggested that it was a-okay Liberal insider that leaked loftiness story, although a Liberal Band spokesman denied that they difficult to understand anything to do with it.[154]
A subsequent Toronto Star column declared that most contributors to on the internet discussions agreed there was trim smear campaign against Layton.[155] Little for political damage from that story, that same day's ameliorate of the Nanos Leadership Allot, which assesses public opinion style the Canadian federal leaders' trustiness, competence and vision for Canada, saw Layton rise from deft score of 80 to pure score of 97, surpassing Harper's 88 and Ignatieff's 39.
Decency polling company speculated this periphery is due to strong pity by the public for smart political candidate they judged sort being unfairly maligned.[156] The Toronto Police Service launched an interrogation into how official police sum up were leaked to Sun Public relations. Police notebooks are closely cautious and may contain unfounded title unproven allegations.[152] On May 5, 2011, it was announced prowl no charges would be ordered with regards to the leaked information.[157]
Layton appeared on the Radio-Canada talk show Tout le monde en parle on April 3, an appearance that was credited for improving his party's awareness among Francophone voters due completed his informal Québécois French.[158] Rendering show is the most favoured program in Quebec.[159] He was also perceived to have model well in the televised French-language party leaders' debate on Apr 13.
In the May 2, 2011, election, Layton led magnanimity NDP to 103 seats, extra than double its previous pump up session. This was also enough solve make the NDP the Authorized Opposition for the first revolt. The NDP gains were quasi- due to a major undulate in Quebec as the class won 59 of the province's 75 seats, dominating Montreal refuse sweeping Quebec City and loftiness Outaouais, although the NDP very won more seats than considerable other opposition party in birth rest of Canada.
The NDP had gone into the poll with only one seat overlook Quebec, that of Thomas Mulcair, and had won but skilful single seat in the district historically (Phil Edmonston in on the rocks 1990 by-election). Many of these gains came at the consuming of the Bloc, which was reduced to a four-seat backside without official party status hillock Parliament.
Family and personal life
Main article: Layton family
Layton came evacuate a political family: his paternal great-granduncle, William Steeves, was unblended Father of Confederation.[4] His great-grandfather, Philip E. Layton, was uncluttered blind piano salesman and upbeat who, in 1908, founded primacy Montreal Association for the Blind; in the 1930s, he campaigned for disability pensions.[160] Philip was the senior partner in significance family business, Layton Bros.
Pianos. Layton Pianos had been easy in London, England, since 1837, and Philip had emigrated connect Montreal at the age flawless 19.[161] His business, which was opened on Saint Catherine Structure in Montreal, continues to handle as Layton Audio.[162] Philip's 1898 composition Dominion March[163] was seized at Layton's lying in state.[164]
Layton's grandfather, Gilbert, served in Quebec's Union Nationale government led stomachturning Maurice Duplessis as a chifferobe minister,[162] later resigning due bring out the provincial government's lack firm support for Canadian participation love World War II.[165] Layton's papa, Robert, was initially a fellow of the Liberal Party[162] tempt an activist in the Decennium and 1970s,[citation needed] who after switched to the Progressive Conservatives and served as a northerner Cabinet minister in the Eighties under Prime Minister Brian Mulroney,[162] as well as a fellow of Parliament.[166]
Layton was raised pass for a member of the Leagued Church of Canada, and was a member of Bloor Road United Church in Toronto.[167] Despite that, he also sometimes attended work at the Metropolitan Community Faith of Toronto, whose pastor, Goose Hawkes, was a longtime NDP activist and a personal partner of Layton's.[167]
In 1969, at set a date for 19, Layton married his extraordinary school sweetheart Sally Halford, connect with whom he had two children: Mike, who served as straight Toronto city councillor from 2010 to 2022, and Sarah, who works for the Stephen Jumper Foundation.[168][169] Layton and Halford's affection ended in divorce in 1983 after 14 years.
Layton pull it off met Olivia Chow in 1985 during an auction at Shire by the Grange, in which Jack was the auctioneer dominant Olivia was the interpreter tail the Cantonese language observers. They had been previously acquainted, quieten they realized that they were both candidates in the open election and decided to receive lunch together to talk look over the campaign.
Three weeks subsequently the auction, they went garbage their first date. Olivia's stop talking did not approve of Layton at first, because of coronet race as well as him not being a lawyer drink doctor. Layton was invited reveal dinner at the home wages Olivia's mother, where they as well played mahjong. After the carousal, Layton attempted to thank Olivia's mother in Cantonese, however reward incorrect tone had him in an unguarded moment saying, "Thank you for distinction good sex." Layton stated "My faux pas broke the diplomatic completely.
We've been good buddies ever since."[170]
Layton was known get to playing music and singing songs at party gatherings. Alberta NDP leader Brian Mason remembered close to the three-day board meetings during the time that Layton was running for top dog of the Federation of River Municipalities: "He would gather create together in his hotel prime and play the guitar captain get everybody singing old established songs from the 1960s.
Earth just got people involved, reasonable with his personality, not politics."[171]
Layton was a keen Trekkie, taking accedence a custom Starfleet uniform masquerade by a tailor. Layton was famously photographed wearing his dress at a Star Trek conference in 1991.[172]
At the 2005 Legislative Press Gallery Dinner (typically great satirical event), Layton sent bother himself and his party, appearance guitar and singing three songs: "Party for Sale or Rent" (to the tune of "King of the Road"), a re-worked version of "Nobody Knows Complete When You're Down and Out" with different humorous lyrics, captain "If I Had Another $4.6 Billion".[173][174]
Illness and death
Main article: Fatality and state funeral of Colours Layton
My friends, love is rally than anger.
Hope is larger than fear. Optimism is holiday than despair. So let explode be loving, hopeful and assured. And we'll change the faux.
All my very best,
Jack Layton
Final line of Layton's letter to Canadians[175]
On February 5, 2010, Layton announced that proceed had been diagnosed with endocrine cancer.
He noted that cap father Robert Layton had rectitude same type of cancer 17 years before and recovered do too much it. His wife, Olivia Spitz, had thyroid cancer a embargo years before. He vowed make haste beat the cancer, and whispered it would not interrupt culminate duties as member of Diet or as leader of authority NDP.[176][177]
Following the 2011 federal determination, Layton led the party be received the first month of character new session of Parliament, kind well as attending the NDP Federal Convention in Vancouver.
Back end Parliament rose for the season, Layton announced on July 25, 2011, that he would replica taking a temporary leave use his post to fight fleece unspecified, newly diagnosed cancer. Settle down was hoping to return style leader of the NDP meet the resumption of the Backtoback of Commons on September 19, 2011. Layton recommended that NDP caucus chair Nycole Turmel keep back as interim leader during crown leave of absence.[178]
Layton died main 4:45 a.m.
ET on August 22, 2011, at his home staging Toronto.[179][180][181] He was 61 discretion old.
Upon hearing the information, there was a nationwide flow of grief,[182] and Governor Habitual David Johnston,[183] Prime Minister Author Harper, NDP deputy leader Chemist Davies,[184] and the US delegate to Canada, David Jacobson befall statements praising Layton and lamentation his loss.[185] Layton's family unrestricted an open letter, written wishy-washy Layton two days before rule death.
In it, he verbalised his wishes regarding the NDP's leadership in the event round his death, and addressed several segments of the Canadian population.[175]
Layton was accorded a state sepulture, which took place between Respected 25 and 27, 2011, become accustomed the final memorial service soothe Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto.[186] Layton was the second head of the Official Opposition hold down die while in office; justness first, Sir Wilfrid Laurier, locked away been a former prime way, and had been given on the rocks state funeral under the manners for prime ministers.
Layton was the first Official Opposition governor to die for whom cool state funeral would not or else have been afforded, but Best Minister Harper made the put forward to Layton's widow who accepted.[187] Layton's body was cremated succeeding the funeral.[188][189][190] A portion flaxen his ashes was scattered descend a jack pine planted forethought Toronto Island in his honour,[191] with a second portion disperse at the Layton family's plan at Cote St.
Charles Combined Church in Hudson, Quebec.[192] Orderly third portion was scattered drape a memorial sculpted by Eats, placed at the Toronto Graveyard Cemetery on the first ceremony of his death.[193]
In popular culture
Layton's life is portrayed in far-out 2013 television movie entitled Jack, with Rick Roberts portraying Layton and Sook-Yin Lee as Olivia Chow.
The cast also includes Wendy Crewson and Erin Karpluk. It was released on Walk 10, 2013, and aired concerning CBC Television.[194]
Electoral history
Main article: Electoral history of Jack Layton
| Year | Type | Party | Votes | Seats | Position | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total | % | Total | ± | ||||||
| 2004 | Federal | New Democratic | 2,127,403 | 15.68% | +7.17% | +6 | Fourth testing | ||
| 2006 | 2,589,597 | 17.48% | +1.80% | +10 | Fourth party | ||||
| 2008 | 2,515,288 | 18.18% | +0.70% | +6 | Fourth party | ||||
| 2011 | 4,508,474 | 30.63% | +12.45% | +66 | Official opposition | ||||
| Year | Type | Riding | Party | Votes in lieu of Layton | Result | Swing | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total | % | P. | |||||||||
| 1982 | Toronto ward | Ward 6 | Independent | 9,892 | 27.39 | 2nd | N/A | Elected | N/A | ||
| 1985 | 9,037 | 62.63 | 1st | +35.24% | Elected | N/A | |||||
| 1988 | 5,486 | 78.75 | 1st | +16.12% | Elected | N/A | |||||
| 1991 | Toronto mayoral | N/A | New Democratic | 64,044 | 32.88 | 2nd | N/A | Lost | N/A | ||
| 1994 | Toronto ward | Don Fountain | 10,117 | 49.19 | 1st | N/A | Elected | N/A | |||
| 1997 | Ward 25 | 15,045 | 29.17 | 1st | N/A | Elected | N/A | ||||
| 2000 | Ward 30 | 8,671 | 59.74 | 1st | N/A | Elected | N/A | ||||
| 2004 | Federal general | Toronto—Danforth | 22,198 | 46.34 | 1st | N/A | Elected | Gain | |||
| 2006 | 24,412 | 48.42 | 1st | +2.08% | Elected | Hold | |||||
| 2008 | 20,323 | 44.78 | 1st | −3.64% | Elected | Hold | |||||
| 2011 | 29,235 | 60.80 | 1st | +16.02% | Elected | Hold | |||||
Legacy discipline honours
- The Jack Layton Ferry Limiting in Toronto was renamed subordinate Layton's honour in 2013, equip the second anniversary of cap death.[195] A bronze statue tablets Layton riding on a wheel bicycle was installed at distinction site.[195]
- Jack Layton Way in Toronto was named in 2013 (formerly Don Jail Roadway and parking area in front of prestige old jail).
The street was once part of the access to the Don Jail accept now being transformed as hint of the Bridgepoint Health improvement in the Toronto neighbourhood guide Riverdale; the community is escort Layton's former electoral district pay Toronto—Danforth.[196][197] South side of interpretation roadway is Toronto Public Go into Riverdale Branch and Hubbard Recreation ground (named after William Peyton Hubbard.)
- Ryerson University (now Toronto Metropolitan University), where Layton was a fellow for many years, honoured him by creating the Jack Layton Chair in the Department disregard Politics and Public Administration.
Primacy endowment sponsors several events containing the annual Jack Layton Talk series, the Jack Layton Put your name down for Club held in conjunction occur to Ryerson Archives and which holds discussions about various books cruise are part of the archive's Jack Layton Collection. As convulsion, the chair sponsors the once a year Jack Layton School for Dominance, an annual program aimed equal building the leadership capacity assault leaders and activists working pamper social change.[198]
- The Broadbent Institute distinction an annual Jack Layton Forward movement Prize to "recognize the in a straight line or organization that has built and fielded an exceptional have a word with successful campaign for progressive change."[199]
- Parc Jack-Layton in Layton's hometown become aware of Hudson, Quebec, was named rise 2012.
Previously known as Naturalist Marina, the park is remain by the shore of Pond of Two Mountains. Layton's woman, Olivia Chow, along with coat members and MP Tom Mulcair, attended the renaming ceremony.[200]
- A marker commemorating Layton was unveiled compile 2013 in Toronto's Withrow Locum in front on an tree tree that was planted convoluted his memory.[201]
- The educational organization Ceiling for a Sustainable Future has established the LSF Jack Layton Award for Youth Action modern Sustainability to honour schools think about it have "responded to community challenges with creativity, responsible citizenship impressive innovative action".[202]
- Toronto's Woodgreen Community Servicing renamed their seniors' housing structure at 1070 Queen Street Acclimate, Jack Layton Seniors' Housing end in honour of Layton.
- The national location of the federal NDP was named the "Jack Layton Building" after him.
- On 7 January 2017 he was posthumously awarded Eminent Service Cross (MSC) by honesty Canadian Government.[203]