FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 23, 2017

A Statement by MP Yvonne Jones on the Passing of the Honourable William “Bill” Rompkey

Yvonne Jones, Member of Parliament for Labrador, is saddened to learn about the passing of a dear friend and mentor, the Honourable William “Bill” Rompkey at the age of 80 years.

Mr. Rompkey was elected to the House of Commons in 1972 as the Member of Parliament for Grand Falls-White Bay-Labrador. After the redistribution in 1988, he was then was elected to represent the new riding of Labrador.

During his 23 years as Labrador’s representative in the House of Commons, Mr. Rompkey achieved many milestones which have played a remarkable role in making the everyday life of those who live in Labrador easier. He was instrumental in obtaining funding to complete airports in coastal communities and infrastructure for fishing communities such as stages, wharfs and slip ways. He was committed to low level flying, 5 Wing Goose Bay and to promoting Ore exports in Labrador West, both of which played intricate roles in the town economies. He was also the driving force behind the completion of the first bridge to connect North West River and Sheshatshiu and securing funds to start the Trans Labrador Highway.

In 1995, Prime Minister Jean Crétien appointed Mr. Rompkey to the Canadian Senate; it was there that he finished his political career and retired in 2011 as Labradors first, and only, Senator. Mr. Rompkey dedicated nearly 40 years of his life to public service in the House of Commons and Senate.

“Senator Rompkey was an educator, an author, and an elder statesman. He gave his entire working life, over four decades, to serving and promoting Labrador and its people. He built strong and lasting friendships throughout the Big Land and was an inspiration, supporter, mentor and close friend to me and many others” – Yvonne Jones, MP Labrador

On behalf of the residents of Labrador and all Canadians, Ms. Jones sends heartfelt condolences to Mr. Rompkey’s wife, Carolyn; daughter, Hilary; son, Peter; family and friends during this difficult time.

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