YOUNGER: CHIEF CLERK PAID A HIGH PRICE FOR DEFENDING THE INTEGRITY OF THE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
Date: Monday August 23, 2010

(Halifax, NS) Dartmouth East MLA Andrew Younger is saddened by the departure of the Chief Clerk of the Legislature, Rod MacArthur.

MacArthur served in the Speaker's Office for 35 years. His career ended abruptly on Thursday.

"MacArthur spoke eloquently and with authority on the independence of the House of Assembly," said Younger. "At the June 9th meeting he warned the public and us, as members of the House of Assembly Management Commission, that the changes being contemplated amounted to the executive taking control of the legislative function of the Nova Scotia government."

"In particular, I remember his articulate defence of the institution which he served,” said Younger. “I was especially struck by these words - ‘This is an institution that not only serves all members equally but can be said to be that which offers protection to all, especially the minority, and all members know that sooner or later that is one's lot in political life.' "

Younger went on to wish MacArthur well in future.

"I speak for all members of the Liberal Caucus when I say Rod MacAuthur's departure is a loss to us all."

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