Letter: Thanks, Jim Flaherty

Although politicians of all stripes are generally held in low esteem, we as citizens of this great country ought to be thankful for those men and women who sacrifice so much in order to devote themselves to public service.

I for one am grateful for (former federal finance minister) Jim Flaherty’s contributions to Ontario and to Canada. Clearly he was well-liked and highly respected by persons of all political persuasions.

Flaherty’s accomplishments are considerable: legislation for the disabled, fiscal prudence, steering through the economic crisis of 2008, etc. This devoted politician undoubtedly could have gone to Bay Street years ago and made far more money than a cabinet minister.

Why did he stay in politics so long? Perhaps I am naïve, but I think Mr. Flaherty, like the vast majority of politicians, genuinely wanted to serve the public.

Certainly some people go into politics to get on the “gravy train,” but these are surely only a minority. Most want to make a difference.

It is a tragedy that Mr. Flaherty died only weeks after retiring as our federal finance minister. The stress and demands of his former position no doubt would wreak havoc on anyone’s constitution.

During this difficult time, his wife, Christine Elliott, continues to serve the public as an MPP at Queen’s Park. May God bless the Flaherty family as we thank them for all their contributions to the citizens of Ontario and Canada.

Martin Rollins
Sudbury, Ont.