In a surprise move, Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound Member of Provincial Parliament Bill Walker says he will not run for re-election in June.
Walker has served as MPP since 2011, but sent notice shortly after 6:00 p.m. on Friday that he will not seek re-election in June.
Walker says “It has been the challenge of my life, and I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenges, the achievements and each experience. It has not been without anxiety, turbulent times and stress, especially during the once-in-a-lifetime (hopefully) Covid-19 pandemic. However, I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to have served in public service during such critical times and am grateful to have had the opportunity to represent and lead as your elected representative.”
Since the Progressive Conservative party formed government in 2018, Walker has served in a variety of roles, including Chief Government Whip, Minister of Government and Consumer Services, Associate Minister of Energy, and recently as Deputy Speaker.
Walker says the Markdale hospital finally being under construction is a highlight “as it had been promised numerous times by the previous government, and I vowed when I was elected to make it a reality.”
Born and raised in Hepworth, Walker was previously an executive in the health industry, and also has worked for Bruce Power. He says he offers his “sincere appreciation and want you to know I will forever be grateful and humbled. I shall always hold this time dear to me, and hope people will know that I tried my best to earn your trust and respect, and to serve your needs and interests to the best of my ability.”
Walker’s vote total went up each election since he became MPP, starting with a 2011 victory where he took 47.3% of the vote. He only ticked up slightly in 2014 with 47.5%, but saw a surge as the PC party formed government under Premier Doug Ford, with Walker taking 54% of the vote in 2018.
The provincial electoral district of Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound, with a population of approximately 105,947, has been solidly blue since it took its current form in 1999. Bill Murdoch was MPP of the riding from 1999-2011. The large rural riding includes the Bruce Peninsula, parts of Bruce and Grey counties, the Saugeen No. 29 Reserve, the Cape Croker reserve, as well as Fathom Five National Marine Park. The southern boundary of the riding runs along Highway 89, and excludes the town of Minto.
Manufacturing is considered the main industry for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound, although Agriculture and Tourism do not lag far behind.
Due to Walker’s share of the vote in recent elections, the race to replace him is expected to be hotly-contested.
CKNX has reached out to the Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound PC Riding Association for comment on Walker not seeking re-election.
