Former Nova Scotia premier John Hamm has died at the age of 88.
Premier Tim Houston confirmed Hamm’s death in a statement, saying he was deeply saddened to learn of the former premier’s passing.
Hamm was a family doctor in Pictou County before entering politics.
He was first elected as MLA for Pictou Centre in 1993 and became leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Nova Scotia in 1995.
In 1999, he led the party from third place to a majority government and became Nova Scotia’s 25th premier.
He was re-elected in 2003 and retired from politics in 2006.
Houston says Hamm made an indelible mark on the lives of thousands of Nova Scotians, first as a compassionate physician and later as premier.
During his time in office, Hamm was known for his quiet style, focus on fiscal restraint and efforts to put the province on stronger financial footing.
One of his biggest achievements was the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Resources Accord.
The deal allowed Nova Scotia to keep more of the benefits from its offshore resources.
Houston says Hamm’s “Campaign for Fairness” helped ensure Nova Scotians would be the primary beneficiaries of the province’s resources.
Hamm also made a major investment in Nova Scotia Community College, calling it an investment in the province’s future.
Houston says he will remember Hamm for his strength, quiet dignity and determination to improve the lives of the people he served.
Prime Minister offers condolences
Prime Minister Mark Carney is also offering condolences following Hamm’s death.
Carney says he was saddened to learn of the passing of the former Nova Scotia premier.
He noted Hamm served his community as a family physician for more than 30 years before entering public life.
Carney says Hamm brought that same sense of service and dedication to his work as MLA for Pictou Centre and later as premier.
He says Hamm believed in outcomes over politics and fought for a stronger and more prosperous future for Nova Scotia.
He also offered condolences to Hamm’s wife Genesta, their children John, Jeffrey and Jennifer, their families and everyone who loved him.
Flags at Province House and all provincial buildings will be lowered to half-mast in recognition of Hamm’s contributions to Nova Scotia.
