Olivia Chow, MP

Thank You and Farewell to Anne McGrath

Olivia Thanks Chief of Staff to Jack Layton in Parliament

June 20, 2012

OTTAWA – The success of the New Democrats in recent years was not just the work of Jack Layton. A number of close team members made the jump to Official Opposition possible, especially Jack’s Chief of Staff Anne McGrath.

She is credited with professionalizing caucus operations and co-designing Layton’s historic breakthrough during the 2011 election. Part of a wider rejuvenation within the New Democrats’ Ottawa team, Anne is moving on to other opportunities. Thanking Anne for her invaluable contributions and impeccable values, Olivia said the following words in the House of Commons:

Ms. Olivia Chow (Trinity—Spadina, NDP):
Mr. Speaker, it is inspiring to observe grace and dignity in politics, because they are rare commodities.

Anne McGrath, the chief of staff to the late Jack Layton and to subsequent leaders of the official opposition possesses such rare qualities.

Anne McGrath is tough, insightful and effective. Her determination and strong principles of social justice gave her the authority to be trusted by all sides. Her insights and advice, always sought and always respected.

Most of all, if we look around at the young people working on Parliament Hill, so many have their trade from her.

Anne McGrath est un modèle pour les jeunes femmes sur la Colline, peu importe le parti.

Sa patience, sa grâce et sa dignité nous manqueront tous.

This is Anne McGrath’s last day on the Hill. We wish her well in all her future endeavours. We thank Anne on behalf of all New Democrats and this House.