Premier Thanks Outgoing MLA For Years Of Public Service

Premier Darrell Dexter thanked Howard Epstein for his 15 years of hard work and dedication as the MLA for Halifax Chebucto and shared best wishes on his retirement from the public service.

Mr. Epstein announced today, Jan. 15, he will not run in the next provincial election.

"Howard is a very dear member of our caucus family and he will be missed around that table," said Premier Dexter. "You could always depend on Howard to speak up on the issues closest to his heart, whether that was the environment, community affairs or Nova Scotia's most vulnerable citizens.

"But those who got Howard's closest attention were always his constituents. The people and families in Halifax Chebucto are saying goodbye to a fighter who always made their needs and concerns a priority, both in opposition and later in government."

A lawyer and part-time law professor, Mr. Epstein was first elected to the provincial legislature in 1998. He was re-elected in 1999, 2003, 2006 and 2009.

Before becoming an MLA, Mr. Epstein served as a Halifax city councillor, starting in 1994. He was re-elected to the amalgamated Halifax Regional Municipal Council in 1995.

"Howard has dedicated close to two decades of his life to making life better for Nova Scotians and their families," Premier Dexter said. "I understand how he would now want to spend more of that time with his own family and friends, and I wish him all the best."