Premier Offers Condolences to Family of Richard James

Premier Darrell Dexter, today, Dec. 10, expressed sadness over the passing of Richard James.

Mr. James died Friday night in hospital after heart surgery at the age of 68.

Mr. James, a former reporter and speechwriter, was also recognized as the father of Operation Christmas, a roadside checkpoint system enforced by the RCMP and municipal police. This program helped change people's attitudes about drinking and driving.

"Richard genuinely cared about other people and worked tirelessly to help make our province a safer place to live," said Premier Dexter. "Whether he was speaking to young people in classrooms across the province or working with law enforcement officials, he was dedicated to reducing the number of people injured or killed from drinking and driving.

"On behalf of the entire province, I offer sincere condolences to Richard's family during this difficult time. He was a man of great vision and Nova Scotia is a better place as a result of his work and dedication."

Mr. James was born in Montreal and spent much of his career working as a journalist in Ontario before moving to Halifax in 1979. He worked for the province's Justice Department.