NDP make history as they become the official opposition
Posted May 3, 2011 12:50:09 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
TORONTO, Ont. – Over 1,000 people flocked to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre to celebrate a momentous moment for the New Democratic Party.
For the first time in history, the NDP have become the official opposition.
As Layton took to the stage to address supporters, the crowd cheered loudly, chanted N-D-P and waved Canadian flags.
“Spring is here my friends, and a new chapter begins,” Layton told the crowd, “Tonight, Canadians voted to improve health care…public health care.”
The crowd booed loudly when Layton mentioned Conservative Leader Stephen Harper’s majority government. But jeers turned to cheers of “Jack, Jack, Jack” when the NDP leader mentioned the party’s new standing.
“Canadians have asked New Democrats to take on more responsibility in parliament,” said Layton.”For the first time in history they have asked the NDP to serve as official opposition. I want to say, I have always favourite proposition over opposition but we will oppose the government when it is off track.”
Layton has led his party to the best showing in its history — winning more than 90 seats.
Earlier in the day Layton told 680News he would be watching the results roll in with close friends and family at a private location before joining supporters at his campaign party.
The NDP Leader and his wife Olivia Chow both retained their seats in Toronto while Cabinet ministers Tony Clement and Jim Flaherty were also re-elected.
As polls opened in the GTA Layton arrived at his station, smiling and pushing his baby granddaughter Beatrice in a stroller.
He was surrounded by family, including his wife Olivia Chow.
He told 680News tonight is about change.
“We’ve worked hard and I think Canadians have come to the conclusion that they actually do have a choice in this election and that’s a very positive thing – to break out of the old patterns an the old habits and really see if we can’t fix up Ottawa.”
Layton said that after he cast his ballot he planned on hitting the gym to burn off some energy and make some phone calls. He told a crowd of reporters, tonight he is ready to make history.
“There’s an optimistic feeling in the air and we’re in the hands of Canadians and Canadians are good people.”
Before the election results came out, campaign manager Kathleen Monk told 680News that the NDP was hoping all the late nights, early mornings and non-stop travel will pay off.
“Despite all those great polls, we know the most important poll is the poll on election day so we’re watching keenly for those results tonight,” said Monk “I think what we’ve seen happen in the course of these last 37 days is that Jack Layton has made a positive appeal to voters and what we want is for people to get energized, get out to vote, and we’re hoping to see a great turn out and great results.”
The NDP won in many unexpected ridings including Laurier Sainte-Marie where they defeated Bloc Quebecois leader Gilles Duceppe.
