Tribute to Harvey Webber

Nova Scotia lost a great business and community leader with the death of Harvey Webber, Economic Development Minister Cecil Clarke said today, Jan. 28.

"Whether it was Atlantic Canada Plus, Think Cape Breton First or Silicon Island, Harvey Webber was always at the forefront of building a stronger economy for the people of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia and all Atlantic Canada," said Mr. Clarke. "On behalf of the government of Nova Scotia, I extend deepest condolences to Mr. Webber's family on this sad occasion."

A graduate of Dalhousie Law School, Mr. Webber worked for many years as a retail clothing merchant in Sydney. In the late 1970s, he helped create Atlantic Canada Plus, a program aimed at encouraging more spending on local goods and services. He also helped establish Think Cape Breton First, a promotional campaign to increase consumer demand at local businesses.

Mr. Webber served as chair of Silicon Island, Sydney's first multimedia and digital technology incubation centre. He was the recipient of countless awards and honours, including the Order of Canada and the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal.

"Anybody who met Harvey Webber could not help but be inspired by his strength, energy and dedication to creating more opportunities for Atlantic Canadians," said Mr. Clarke. "His leadership will be missed."