Former New Democratic Party leader Alexa McDonough has died aged 77.
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She had suffered from Alzheimer’s disease for several years.
Mme McDonough was a pioneer in the place of women in politics. She became the first woman to lead a major political party in the country when she was elected leader of the Nova Scotia NDP in 1980.
In 1995, she took the lead of the federal NDP and managed to breathe new life into the party.
Current NDP leader Jagmeet Singh shared his sadness over the passing of one of his predecessors.
He recalls that she dedicated her life to social justice, defended women in politics and never backed down from a challenge.
Another former NDP leader, Thomas Mulcair, says his fight for justice will continue to inspire us.
For his part, Justin Trudeau says that this is a huge loss for our country and that Mr.me McDonough made history.