November 9, 2008

DEVOLIN ANNOUNCES INTENTION TO RUN FOR SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF COMMONS

OTTAWA: Local MP Barry Devolin announced today his intention to run for Speaker of the House of Commons in Ottawa.

“I am running for Speaker because I would like the opportunity to take the same cooperative approach that I took as committee chair into the House of Commons,” said Devolin. “I was proud that the Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development committee was professional and productive while I was in the chair.”

“The Speaker is also an important ambassador for Canada,” said Devolin. Having lived for a year in Europe, a year and a half in Asia, and three years in the United States, I appreciate the importance of cultural sensitivity and protocol, and recognize the value of parliamentary diplomacy in promoting Canada’s interests abroad.”

“Every individual has their strengths and aptitudes,” explained Devolin. “I am confident that my calm approach, contemplative nature and restrained partisanship make me well suited for the chair in the House of Commons.”

Devolin was first elected to the House of Commons as the MP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock in 2004 and re-elected in 2006 and 2008. Prior to his election, Devolin served as the Director of Research for the Reform Party of Canada, Chief of Staff for two Ontario cabinet ministers and Special Advisor to the Premier of Ontario.

The election of the Speaker of the House of Commons for Canada’s 40th Parliament will take place on Tuesday November 18th.

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For more information contact:

Barry Devolin, MP

Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock 

(705) 324-2400 ext. 25 or (866) 688-9881