NDP Leader Earle McCurdy announced this morning that he is stepping down as Leader of the NL NDP effective at the end of September.
Approaching the midway point of this electoral term, McCurdy says it is crucial to know who will lead the Party in the 2019 general election. He says continuing as Leader would require a commitment of several more years. After serious reflection, he decided it would be best for him, his family, and the Party to step down now.
“I would like to thank our provincial executive, our two outstanding MHAs – Lorraine Michael and Gerry Rogers – and our committed and passionate membership for entrusting me with the leadership of our Party,” McCurdy said. “I’m proud to be a New Democrat. What convinced me to contest the leadership nearly three years ago was my lifelong belief in the values of the New Democratic Party,” he added. “While I am stepping down as leader, I believe our Party’s voice is needed now more than ever. It’s time for me to step aside and for a new leader to emerge to lead the Party into the next election.”
In his remarks this morning, McCurdy noted that the Party and its MHAs have been instrumental in advancing issues surrounding mental health and leading the charge against ill-advised, anti-literacy measures such as library closures and the book tax. The NDP were also front and centre in the pushback against the punitive 2016 Liberal budget and continue to challenge the government to immediately proceed with a public inquiry, including a forensic audit, into Nalcor and the Muskrat Falls Project.
-30-
To speak with Earle McCurdy, phone 709-739-6387 or e-mail news@nl.ndp.ca.