The first candidate for the leadership of the provincial Liberal Party has come forward.
Former high-ranking bureaucrat, John Abbott has confirmed his intention to seek the Liberal leadership.
Abbott will have to step away from his current role as the CEO of Canadian Mental Health Association in order to run. He tells VOCM News he is no longer able to sit on the sidelines as the provincial economic situation worsens.
Abbott says he has a team in place to assist the campaign and has the full support from his family and friends.
Abbott served on two different occasions as Deputy Minister of Health, and is the former CEO of the Health Council of Canada. He also served as Chair of the Health Care Corporation’s Board of Directors.
An official announcement is expected sometime next week.
It was anticipated that Dr. Andrew Furey would throw his hat in the ring this week, but in a blog post made yesterday, he indicated he’s still giving it some serious thought. Long-time Liberal and businessman, Paul Antle indicated this week that he will not be running.
The deadline for candidates for the Liberal Leadership is Friday, March 6.