Johnston to become Governor General
Posted Jul 8, 2010 11:51:55 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
The Queen and Prime Minister have announced that University of Waterloo President David Johnston will become the next Governor General.
The bilingual Ontario academic will officially start his new job October 1st, after Michaelle Jean’s term officially ends.
Johnston was selected by an expert advisory group put together by Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
The 69 year old shook hands with the Queen when she was in Toronto last week, but won’t have a formal audience with her until later this summer.
Johnston met with P-M Harper this morning.
He pledged to be a stalwart defender of our Canadian heritage, of Canadian institutions, and our people.
Johnston says in particular he’s looking forward to meeting our soldiers.
The highly educated legal scholar was born in Sudbury, Ont., grew up in nearby Sault Ste. Marie, and served 15 years as principal and vice-chancellor of McGill University.
Johnston will become this nation’s 28th Governor General.
Research In Motion co-founder and the University of Waterloo’s Chancellor Emeritus, Mike Lazardis said “David’s strong understanding of law and the Canadian Constitution, combined with his great communication skills, charm and real ability to achieve consensus amongst stakeholders, will serve him well in the role of Governor General.”
Bob Harding, Chair of the University’s Board of Governors says Johnston exemplifies the highest qualities of leadership and commitment to public service in Canada.
David Docherty, political science professor at Wilfrid Laurier University tells 570’s Gary Doyle Show, Johnston is a good choice to succeed Jean.
He says Johnston understands the workings of government but is not overly partisan.
Docherty calls him the perfect choice.
Kitchener-Waterloo MP, Peter Braid tells 570 News he worked closely with Johnston on numerous initiatives, calling it a well deserved and very fitting appointment.
Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff says Johnston’s dedication to learning and innovation, combined with his legal expertise and constitutional knowledge makes him an ideal choice for Governor General.
