UPDATE: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the leaders of Alberta’s PC,NDP, Wildrose and Liberal parties have issued statements on Jim Prentice’s death.
From the Progressive Conservative Party:
“We are heartbroken to learn that former Premier Jim Prentice has lost his life in a tragic accident yesterday evening.
“Jim was a friend and mentor to us all and his dedication to public service was an inspiration to everyone who had the honour of working with him. As the Member of Parliament for Calgary Centre-North, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, Minister of Industry, Minister of Environment and as Alberta’s 16th Premier, he made significant contributions to his community on both the provincial and federal levels.
“Beyond this dedication and commitment to public service, Jim was a kind and generous man who always put his family first. Our deepest sympathies are with his wife Karen, their daughters and the entire Prentice family.”
From Prime Minister Justin Trudeau:
“I was deeply saddened to learn that former Alberta Premier Jim Prentice was killed in a plane crash last night in British Columbia. Jim Prentice brought his deep convictions to everything he turned his hand to, whether it was law, business, or politics. At each step of his career, he worked tirelessly for the people of Canada and Alberta – both as a federal minister in several different portfolios, and later, as Premier of the province.
“He was broadly respected in the House of Commons – across all party lines – for his intelligence, commitment, and honest straightforward approach on tough issues. I greatly enjoyed the time I spent working closely beside Jim in the House, and know that he will be missed by his colleagues on both sides of the aisle.
“Today, we mourn the passing of a great Canadian. His legacy will live on in the work he did for Albertans and for all Canadians – particularly in the important role he played in finalizing the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement – and through his daughters, who he loved dearly and was incredibly proud of.
“On behalf of all Canadians, Sophie and I offer our deepest condolences to his family and friends and to the loved ones of all those who perished in this tragic accident.”
From Premier Rachel Notley:
“I have been informed that Premier Jim Prentice was the victim of a terrible aircraft accident last night. I spoke with his wife, Karen, and expressed the profound sorrow and sympathy I feel, and that I know all Albertans feel, in the face of this unspeakable tragedy. I also spoke with PC leader Ric McIver.
“There are no words adequate for moments like this, as my family knows very well. But there are words to remember Premier Prentice’s contributions to Alberta. He served our province in so many roles for so many years. He deeply loved Alberta. He worked tirelessly for all of us, in the true spirit of one who is committed to public service. I benefited from his advice, and the Government of Alberta is continuing to pursue many of his initiatives. All Albertans are the better for this.
“We will find an appropriate occasion to fully remember Premier Prentice’s career and contributions. But today our thoughts are with his family. With Karen and their daughters Christina, Cassia and Kate. And with two grandchildren who will have much to be proud of in their grandfather. This tragedy was made worse by the death on the same flight of Premier Prentice’s good friend, and father of his son-in-law, Dr. Ken Gellatly. Our thoughts are also with Premier Prentice’s friends and colleagues.
“For Alberta, today is a day of sorrow in the face of terrible tragedy. To all Albertans, I urge you to look at the faces of those we love and remember that every moment with them is a precious gift.”
From PC interim leader Ric McIver:
“We are heartbroken to learn that former Premier Jim Prentice has lost his life in a tragic accident yesterday evening.
“Jim was a friend and mentor to us all and his dedication to public service was an inspiration to everyone who had the honour of working with him. As the Member of Parliament for Calgary Centre-North, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, Minister of Industry, Minister of Environment and as Alberta’s 16th Premier, he made significant contributions to his community on both the provincial and federal levels.
“Beyond this dedication and commitment to public service, Jim was a kind and generous man who always put his family first. Our deepest sympathies are with his wife Karen, their daughters and the entire Prentice family.”
From Wildrose leader Brian Jean:
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the sudden loss of Premier Jim Prentice. This accident leaves a hole in our hearts and throughout the public landscape of our country. Jim dedicated much of his life to public service on behalf of the people of Calgary, Alberta and Canada.
“For his colleagues who served with him in Ottawa and Alberta, we will remember him as a man of great compassion, who held firm in his belief in the dignity of all people and a leader who worked relentlessly towards his goal of making this province and this country a better place.
“On behalf of the Wildrose Official Opposition, I offer my prayers and deepest condolences to Jim’s wife Karen, to his children and grandchildren, and to the families who lost loved ones today. With all Albertans, we share in your grief.”
From Liberal leader David Swann:
“I am deeply saddened at the sudden passing of Jim Prentice. The Prentice family lives a stone’s throw from my own home in Calgary. During Jim’s time as an MP our constituencies overlapped and we worked together on issues of mutual importance. Our meetings were always cordial and constructive. Jim was honest, fair and dedicated to what was best for the people he represented.”
“I saw the same dedication during his time as Premier, though we often disagreed on policy,” he continues. “There are no words to soften such a terrible tragedy. My thoughts and prayers remain with his wife, children and loved ones.”