PM to appoint Senator

Prime Minister Harper said in the House of Commons today that when Senator Dan Hays (Liberal-Alberta) retires this summer (seven years before he has to), Bert Brown will be appointed to take his place. Brown was one of those “elected” by Albertans.

Here’s the transcript from Question Period in the House today:

Mr. Kevin Sorenson (Crowfoot, CPC) :
Mr. Speaker, as part of our campaign promise for democratic reform, our Conservative government put forward Bill C-43, which establishes the national process for consulting Canadians on their preferences for Senate appointment through election.

We have recently learned that Senator Dan Hays, who holds the seat from Alberta, will be retiring from the Senate after it rises for the summer.

Could our Prime Minister today advise the House, advise Canadians and Albertans on how he will be filling this vacancy?

Right Hon. Stephen Harper :
First of all, Mr. Speaker, let me just take the opportunity to congratulate Senator Hays on his long public service, including his role as Leader of the Opposition and Speaker of the Senate.

We do have Bill C-43 tabled. On the other hand, the province of Alberta did some time ago hold a popular consultation for the filling of a Senate vacancy.

When that seat comes due, I will recommend to the Governor General the appointment of Mr. Bert Brown.