Premier Andrew Furey admits the entire House of Assembly is “heartbroken” over the death of Derrick Bragg.

The 59-year-old succumbed to cancer on Monday.

A Book of Condolence has been set up in the main lobby of Confederation Building and flags at provincial and federal government offices will remain at half-staff until the evening of the day of Bragg’s funeral.

The premier says Bragg was “tailor-made for public service in Newfoundland and Labrador” bringing passion and humour to the table, and his loss “leaves a big void.”

Bragg’s levity, says Furey, allowed for decision-makers to “take a pause, and make better decisions…the room was lighter and brighter with Derrick in it, and the province is definitely a sadder, and heavier place without him.”

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.