Bob Rae quits as MP in ‘very emotional’ decision [Ring of Fire First Nations negotiator] – CBC News Sudbury (June 19, 2013)

http://www.cbc.ca/sudbury/

The former interim Liberal leader says he wants to devote his time to First Nations issues

Bob Rae, who served as interim Liberal leader following the party’s disastrous showing in the 2011 election, is stepping down as an MP, CBC News has learned.

Rae told his Liberal colleagues of his decision during Wednesday’s party caucus meeting, an announcement that was met with tears and applause, according to sources.

Rae recently accepted the role of chief negotiator for First Nations in talks with the Ontario government about development of the Ring of Fire, and is to tour the nine Matawa communities in the mining and resource-rich area of Northern Ontario this summer. Rae is a former NDP premier of the province.

At a news conference with Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau in the foyer of the House of Commons, Rae said that work as a lawyer and mediator was taking more and more of his time and he felt he needed to focus on his role with the First Nations. He didn’t say when his resignation would be effective.

“This is not about money, this is about time. I’m not being paid for my work in the North,” Rae said, adding that his decision was about, “How can I effectively serve the interests of the people I’ve been asked to serve?

“The passion and the enthusiasm that I feel for the First Nations of Canada, the need for a different kind of partnership between Canada’s first people and those of us who’ve come later on, is absolutely necessary,” he continued.
Rae thanked his caucus colleagues and said “above all, I want to thank my leader,” saying he has enjoyed his time working with Trudeau. He added that he and Trudeau had been discussing his departure.

“It’s not easy, frankly. The leader and I talked about this, and he expressed a strong desire for me to stay and I eventually had to tell him, sorry I can’t do that.”

He continued, “I’m quite confident that Mr. Trudeau will become the prime minister of Canada,” Rae said.

Trudeau said he was saddened by Rae’s decision, and that he will miss Rae’s “wise counsel.”

“We will miss his passion,” Trudeau said.

“I am not letting him go far, [Rae] will continue be a valued friend, ally and resource for all Liberals in this country as we continue to build a brighter future for all Canadians,” he added.

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