John Crosbie, a former federal cabinet minister who was known as much for his sharp wit as for his politics, has died at the age of 88.
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As an outspoken fisheries minister under Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, Crosbie faced his biggest political challenge as Newfoundland and Labrador struggled with the collapse of the northern cod stocks, for centuries the backbone of the province's economy. "He was one of the most valuable public servants for Canada and his province during our challenging debates over resources and our Constitution," Mulroney said."Mr. Crosbie made lasting contributions to his province and country," Trudeau said in a statement. "Over a remarkable career, he served his community at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels. As a federal cabinet minister, his work to promote free trade changed the face of our country.
As a young man, John Crosbie was an outstanding student, graduating with honours from Queen's University in Kingston, Ont., and the Dalhousie Law School in Halifax. Mulroney became prime minister in 1984 and Crosbie was appointed justice minister -- the first of six cabinet posts he would hold. In an exchange in the House of Commons in 1985, Crosbie told Liberal MP Sheila Copps to "Just quiet down, baby," prompting Copps to reply, "I'm nobody's baby."
However, his penchant for headline-grabbing jests seemed to draw more attention than his political accomplishments. Crosbie was made an officer of the Order of Canada in 1998, and he went on to serve five years as lieutenant-governor of Newfoundland and Labrador. On his first day as vice-regal representative in 2008, Crosbie said he had no regrets about his straight-shooting style.
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Former federal cabinet minister, N.L. Lt.-Gov. John Crosbie is in declining health: familyThe family is asking for privacy but says well wishes and prayers are greatly appreciated
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