Mr. Speaker, I rise on behalf of the official opposition to pay tribute to the late Douglas Alkenbrack, former Progressive Conservative MP for the Lennox—Prince Edward riding, the people's man in Napanee and the north area.
Doug was elected in 1962 for Lennox—Prince Edward and served this House and his party with distinction until 1979. As a former counsellor and later the mayor of Napanee, Doug brought a sensitivity to riding issues and was known as a congenial and respectable gentleman by his peers on the Hill.
Doug was, as his brother Wesley characterized him, a people's man who devoted his life to his parliamentary and riding duties. Doug was an unpartisan individual who was receptive to ideas and input from those who claimed they did not support his party's views. He saw the good in people and the work of the individual and respected their right to offer another alternative.
Doug Alkenbrack was more than a politician. He was a student of politics, history and a published poet as we just heard. He embraced this aspect of his life with the same vigour and enthusiasm as he did for politics.
After Doug's retirement from politics in 1979, he remained a popular member of the Napanee community and area. Certainly this is testimony to the respect and high regard his community had for this gentleman and for the work he did on their behalf over his career.
I sat in this House with Doug Alkenbrack. I can say that Doug was a fine gentleman, a tireless worker on behalf of his constituents and a man who held this institution in very high regard.
On behalf of the official opposition, I wish to extend to his wife Nan, his daughter Eleanor and his son Douglas, our deepest and sincere condolences on his passing.
He will be sadly missed by those who knew and loved him and by all the members of this House.