The sudden death of Jim Flaherty yesterday, has left an entire nation in mourning. Canadians from coast to coast, including members of the country’s political parties and business communities have been both shocked and saddened by the news.
There’s no question that Flaherty has left a lasting impact on Canada and Canadians, reflected in the number of tributes pouring in for the former Finance Minister.
Recognized for his sound handling of the Canadian economy during some very uncertain times and pursuing sensible rules on mortgage lending, Flaherty was also seen as a champion for small business in this country, pursuing strategies designed to reduce the tax burden on companies and providing access to lending at a time when other nations started tightening the rules.
The Canadian Automobile Dealers Association (CADA) has felt particularly saddened by Flaherty’s death, especially in view of his support for the auto industry, which included referencing CADA in his 2011 budget speech. In tribute to the former Finance Minister, CADA has sent out a news blast to its members across the country.
“Mr. Flaherty was one of the finest Finance Ministers in the history of our country,” said Rick Gauthier, CADA’s President and CEO. “Mr. Flaherty was a great friend to our industry over the years and I personally had the chance to work directly with him on several occasions,” said Gauthier. “There is no doubt in my mind that the policies he championed helped bring our economy through one of the most challenging periods in living memory.”
