University of Manitoba President and Vice-Chancellor David Barnard issued the following statement following the death of Official Opposition Leader Jack Layton:

Like all Canadians, I was deeply saddened to learn today that we have lost federal Opposition Leader Jack Layton to cancer – an illness that has touched far too many families.

I was impressed by Mr. Layton’s energy, his optimism and his desire to improve the lives of Canadians. He dedicated his life to public service as an educator, a Toronto city councillor and as leader of the NDP at the time of the party’s greatest historical success.

In many ways, Mr. Layton’s personal cancer journey and his courage in fighting that disease have served as an inspiration to all Canadians.

On behalf of the University of Manitoba, I offer sincere my condolences to Mr. Layton’s wife, Olivia Chow, his children and grandchildren.

Although he was a public figure, Mr. Layton was also a husband, a father and grandfather. We share in the sadness and grief of his family.

For more information please contact Peter Dalla-Vicenza, University of Manitoba, at 204- 474-9234.