Mr. Speaker, it was with shock, sadness and compassion that my colleagues and I learned yesterday of the death of Jim Flaherty, who had been a member of the House of Commons since 2006 and the finance minister for the Conservative government until just recently. Jim also held senior ministerial positions within the Ontario provincial government, where his talents were recognized.
Jim Flaherty left his mark on Canadian politics. In his own way and in a manner consistent with his values, he did what he thought was right and just for Canadians and his party. We will remember him and the economic legacy he left as finance minister, which marked the beginning of the 21st century.
Like any good politician, he did some good and some not so good things, depending on your political point of view, but he was always respectful and honest in his approach. Jim Flaherty was a great man with many good qualities. He was a man with heart.
With his intelligent sense of humour, he was sometimes able to make even his strongest opponents smile.
He was without a doubt a man who was respected by all of his peers in the House of Commons. He was an engaging man with bright eyes and a sharp mind who gave a lot to the community.
On behalf of my Bloc Québécois colleagues, I would like to express my sincere condolences to Jim's family, friends and relatives, as well as to all of his Conservative Party colleagues.