Victoria MP Denise Savoie deserves thanks and respect for her years of public service, both locally and nationally.
Savoie announced this week she is resigning her seat in Parliament, citing concerns for her health and the need to lead a more balanced life.
The former educator served as a Victoria city councillor from 1999 to 2005, where she helped establish a regional housing trust and advocated for harbour cleanup and heritage preservation.
She was elected to Parliament in 2006, the first female MP from Victoria. She was re-elected in 2008 and 2011. In June 2011, she was named deputy speaker of the House.
She had sought the Speaker's chair, hoping to elevate the atmosphere in the House "so that government and Parliament truly work for all Canadians."
"Imagine for a moment a Parliament that functions well," she said in her pitch to fellow MPs, "where debate is intelligent, informed, witty and, above all, respectful; where our interaction leads to more inclusive public policy, and thus to a win-win for all Canadians."
The political arena can too easily degenerate into partisan bickering and theatrics, but Savoie has always remained civil and sensible while still fighting for what she believes.
She served well in political life. We wish her well in retirement.
