Alfie MacLeod, former MLA and Nova Scotia House Speaker, dies after cancer battle

Former MLA for Cape Breton West and Speaker of the House Alfie MacLeod dies after cancer battle.

Alfie MacLeod, a former Progressive Conservative MLA and Speaker of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly, has died after a battle with cancer.

MacLeod was first elected to the Nova Scotia legislature in a byelection in the constituency of Cape Breton West in 1995, serving until 1998. He served in several roles as a Progressive Conservative, including party president from 1994 to 1996.

In 2006, he returned to provincial politics and was re-elected in the 2009, 2013 and 2017 elections. He served as Speaker of the Nova Scotia legislature from 2007 to 2009.

Premier Tim Houston said he is mourning the loss of MacLeod, who he called “a beloved and proud son of Cape Breton, a devoted family man and a dedicated public servant.”

“Alfie was a man of conviction,” said Houston in a statement. “He had a big heart, and thousands of Nova Scotians benefited from his compassion, his fierce loyalty and his willingness to stand up for the underdog. He was a steadfast friend and a true community leader.”

Houston gave his regards to MacLeod’s wife and three children.

Nova Scotia NDP Leader Claudia Chender said she is “deeply saddened” by the news, calling MacLeod “legendary inside the legislature and throughout Cape Breton.”

“I’ll always remember the way he passionately advocated for his community, and the kindness he showed to me and all members of the legislature as he demonstrated again and again what it meant to be a true parliamentarian,” said the Opposition leader.

Sydney-Glace Bay MP Mike Kelloway also offered his condolences on Monday.

“Alfie was more than a respected politician; he was a true friend, a compassionate leader, and a tireless advocate for health care, veterans, and the people he served. His warmth, wisdom, and unwavering commitment will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know him,” a post from Kelloway reads.

John White, MLA for Glace Bay-Dominion, said, “As a member of the Nova Scotia Legislature, Alfie fought for the good of the province, as a Cape Bretoner, none were prouder of the island. But as an individual, Alfie certainly lived for the love of his life, his wife Shirley and their wonderful family.

“Many will know Alfie for his volunteer work as an auctioneer, it would be impressive to know just how much he has directly impacted local charities. The Christmas Crew Society will remain forever thankful for his contributions to our work.”

MacLeod was 69 years old.

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