Statement by Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff on the death of Marian Maloney

May 30, 2010

OTTAWA – Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff made the following statement today on the death of retired Senator Marian Maloney:

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Marian Maloney yesterday.  As President of the Ontario Women’s Liberal Commission, Chair of the Women’s National Liberal Caucus and as a Senator, Ms. Maloney left an indelible imprint on the political landscape for women in Canada through a lifetime of service and commitment.

“Ms. Maloney’s involvement with the Liberal Party of Canada began at a time when there were far too few women parliamentarians, when both an equal voice and equal purchase in the essential political debates in this country was just an aspiration for so many. With great heart, optimism and courage, Marian set out to make things right in her inimitable way – from the ground up, working with and inspiring women in communities across this country. She exemplified what it means to be a loyal, passionate and hard working Liberal.

“She was considered by many to be the matriarch of the party in Ontario. Marian was the backbone of the Ontario Women’s Liberal Commission and champion of the Judy Lamarsh Fund which helps woman candidates across the country.

“Her talk paralleled her actions too. She raised significant funds to help them win. Marian never stopped working, never lost her drive.

“No job was too big or too small. She made phone calls, opened up her home and organized fundraisers. Often accompanied with her good friend Donna Dale, there was no event she did not attend, including annual general meetings, executive board meetings, biennials and riding events. She was truly the heart, soul and spirit of volunteerism for the party in Ontario.

“Marian was also there for me from the very beginning of my political career. She was devoted, loyal, candid – and funny. Zsuzsanna and I shall miss her terribly.

On behalf of the Liberal Party of Canada and our parliamentary caucus, my deepest sympathies go out to Ms. Maloney’s family – sons Patrick, Michael, Jamie and their families – and all who will mourn her loss.”