Alexa McDonough has died at the age of 77.
The former federal and provincial party leader was battling Alzheimer’s disease. She became the first woman to lead a major political party in Canada, when she was elected the leader of the Nova Scotia NDP in 1980.
McDonough served as a member of the Nova Scotia Legislature from 1981 to 1994, representing the Halifax Chebucto and Halifax Fairview ridings.
In 1995, she was elected leader of federal NDP – a position she held until 2003 while representing residents in the federal riding of Halifax. She was succeeded by the late Jack Layton.
“No one in our province has had such a signature mentoring influence on generations of women to consider their futures in the light of public service.
Alexa has loved the people of Nova Scotia, and the people of Nova Scotia have loved her back.” – NDP Leader Gary Burrill
In 2009, she became the interim president of Mount Saint Vincent University and was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in December of that year.
“Alexa was my friend, leader, mentor and an inspiration. I spent countless hours with her at meetings large and small, fundraisers, and conventions. Canvassing in all kinds of weather. Her strength and determination were unmatched. My condolences to her family.” – Former Premier Darrell Dexter
