The NASDAQ sign over Wall Street flashes the news and a tribute to former Finance Minister Jim Flaherty following his death today. The stunning information has been felt here in Toronto, all corners of Canada and in countries around the world. The family released a statement saying Mr. Flaherty had been in Ottawa at the time of his death. There is no cause known for the passing of the 64-year-old Conservative. Prime Minister Harper spoke briefly to say that his “partner and friend” had died very suddenly. The PM was clearly shocked by the death. His wife Laureen was seen to be crying. A police news conference said only that a 9-1-1 call had been received about a man in difficulty.
Declared dead in Ottawa apartment
Mr. Flaherty was declared dead in his apartment on Cumberland Street in Ottawa. Flaherty stepped down as finance minister a few weeks ago, citing personal reasons and a desire to leave public service and head back to the private sector. He suffered from what was called a painful skin condition which was not fatal. He had long been a key player in the Harper government, especially when it came to fiscal policy. He has been the only Tory to serve as finance minister under Prime Minister Harper, having served the same role in Ontario at the provincial level before running federally. In retiring, Mr. Flaherty said he was planning to take work in private business. The family statement said: “Christine Elliott and her triplet sons, John, Galen and Quinn would like to make Canadians aware that her beloved husband and father passed away peacefully today in Ottawa. “We appreciate that he was so well supported in his public life by Canadians from coast to coast to coast and by his international colleagues. “The family asks for privacy at this time.”
