This week marks the end of a political era on the Sunshine Coast.
After 21 years as an elected official, 30 years in federal and provincial politics and five political parties, MP John Reynolds has resigned as Opposition House Leader and has said he won't seek re-election in this riding in the next federal election.
Reynolds' career has been a long and distinguished one.
He has worked hard for the people in this riding. His duties within the party and as House Leader have meant a lot of time in Ottawa. Now that he has relinquished those duties, it will allow him more time in this riding as he finishes his term in office.
That's certainly a good thing for the people of this riding.
We know some folks don't agree with the Conservative Party or Reynolds on certain issues. But those disagreements aside, you have to respect the man as a politician and for what he has accomplished.
He's served in a variety of critical portfolios, including immigration, fisheries and justice and as Chief Opposition Whip. He won the seat in this riding in 1997, was re-elected in 2000 and, of course, won the seat again in 2004.
Reynolds has always been approachable for comment, whether he is here on the Sunshine Coast or in Ottawa. Many times we have been working on a story and needing comment from our MP. Even on tight deadlines, Reynolds has always come through. He's worked with us, returned phone calls, given us the answers to our questions and is up-to-date on the issues. He's been accessible, which is all you can ask for as a journalist.
He's certainly done a much better job in that department than another politician on the Coast, who shall remain nameless.
He has also actively represented this riding. Our riding, which covers West Vancouver, Squamish, Whistler and the whole Coast up to Powell River, is a huge area full of a diverse mix of people and issues. It's a tall order for one man to be in so many places at once, but Reynolds has handled it with dignity and grace.
So with all this in mind, we wish John all the best in his final stay in office. Enjoy your retirement, John - you have certainly earned it.
