Casey to Fill Ottawa Position

Premier Rodney MacDonald is announcing an appointment that will strengthen Nova Scotia's voice in Ottawa. In Halifax today, April 28, the premier announced that long-time federal MP Bill Casey is Nova Scotia's new Department of Intergovernmental Affairs' Senior representative in Ottawa.

Mr. Casey is a well known and highly respected Nova Scotian with a reputation of standing up for the province and its best interests.

"For more than 17 years, Bill Casey has represented the people of Cumberland-Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley in the House of Commons," said Premier MacDonald. "He knows the key decision-makers on Parliament Hill. His experience in getting things done in Ottawa, and how to make things happen for the people of Nova Scotia, will be a huge benefit."

Mr. Casey, a St. Francis Xavier graduate, has an extensive business background. He was first elected to the House of Commons in 1988. He was re-elected in 1997, 2000, 2004 and again in 2008.

"It is a fresh start for me and I am very much looking forward to getting started with this position," said Mr. Casey. "I feel like I have a lot to offer to the job. It is my hope that my experience and contacts at the federal government level will prove to be a strength. This is another opportunity for me to try and better my home province."

The Ottawa office opened in early 2006 to raise awareness and understanding of Nova Scotia in the nation's capital. The position became open earlier this year when Ian Thompson left to take another position within the Nova Scotia government.

"We're thrilled to have Bill Casey join our team," said Premier MacDonald.