Honourable senators, I am honoured and pleased to rise today to speak about Dr. Jim Smith, who passed away on January 18, 2020.

Dr. Jim was a family physician who later became a provincial MLA and minister. He was first elected as one of only six Liberals to win in the 1984 election. Considering that 1984 was not a great year for Liberals provincially or federally, that was quite a feat. Jim Smith was held in very high esteem by the voters of Dartmouth East. In his political life, Jim would criticize the policies but not the person, and that’s not a bad plan for all of us.

Jim Smith was very well respected by the people of the riding of Dartmouth East and the people of Nova Scotia. He was kind, compassionate and dedicated to the people he served. He also had a great sense of humour.

Jim served as Minister of Community Services and Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs under Premier John Savage, and under Premier Russell MacLellan, Jim served as Minister of Health and then Minister of Justice. In public life and private life he was committed to fairness and justice and to standing up for what is right. Dr. Jim chose a life of politics to serve the people of Dartmouth East and Nova Scotia. Over the years, he was recognized on many occasions for his work as a family physician and for his community involvement. His legacy includes advocating and championing for the improvement of the lives of children and youth through his many years of working with the Boys and Girls Club.

Honourable senators, Dr. Jim Smith was a role model of decency, kindness and caring. Jim Vibert, a reporter for the Chronicle Herald wrote of him:

He was an honest, decent, honourable man. We were all a little richer for having him, just as we’re a little poorer now that he’s gone.

To Jim’s family, my husband Bob and I extend our condolences. It was our privilege to have known him for many years. Thank you.