OTTAWA - Green Party Leader Elizabeth
May received overwhelming support for her leadership in this summer’s internal
party voting. The leadership review resulted in 94.5% of votes supporting
May. “I am humbled by the immense support of my party and will continue
to pour all of my energy into ensuring the Green Party’s values have a strong
influence in Canadian politics,” said May.
This
August marked the five year anniversary of Elizabeth May’s election as the
Leader of the Green Party of Canada. “It has been gratifying to be a part
of the Green Party’s growth in Canada and now to be the first elected Green
Member of Parliament; it is just the tip of the iceberg of what the Green Party
can accomplish,” said May. “I so appreciate the support of our federal council,
our team of dedicated staff and candidates, thousands of volunteers, and of
course the voters as we continue to show Canadians an alternative, a fresh
voice that represents what they care about.”
The
Green Party is also happy to announce the re-election of John Streicker from
the Yukon as President of the Party, and Ard Van Leeuwen and Pierre Tremblay as
the English and French Vice-Presidents respectively. “John’s steady hand
will continue to guide the party to greater success and ensure our message is
reaching Canadians,” said May. “I am grateful for the time and effort all of
our volunteer federal council members give to the party.”
This
is the third year the Green Party of Canada has conducted the voting online,
and this year saw the highest voter participation yet with 23% of party members
casting a ballot. Kate Story was elected Treasurer, Drew Fenwick Manitoba
Representative, David Coon for New Brunswick, Robert Miller for Newfoundland
and Labrador, Richard Noel for Quebec and Kim Melton for the Territories.
May’s
popularity within the Green Party membership has risen from the 85% approval
rating at the last Green Party convention. After winning the leadership
in 2006, May ran in the London North Centre by-election that fall, winning 26%
of the vote, the highest percentage ever for a Green Party candidate.
When the general election was called in 2008, May beat her own record by
bringing in 32% of the vote in Central Nova. With a change of tactics and
a decision to focus on electing the leader, the Green Party then asked May to
run in British Columbia, where in the 2011 election, she won the seat of
Saanich-Gulf Islands with over 46% of the vote.
“Elizabeth
is truly one of a kind,” said Deputy Leader Adrianne Carr. “She has incredible
energy and passion for the issues that affect every single Canadian’s
life. We are wonderfully lucky to have a leader with so much drive and intelligence.
Elizabeth is one of those rare visionaries who will change the world.”
“Elizabeth
May has already shown herself to be an outstanding Member of Parliament,” said
Ronald Wright, Victoria Island resident and author of A Short History of Progress. “She has depths of compassion for any
individual in need and, despite her naysayers, she has made her presence in the
House of Commons felt with key votes, insightful questions and bold positions.”
-30-
Contact:
Kieran Green
Director of Communications
Kieran.green@greenparty.ca
613-614-4916