Elmer MacKay, a longtime Progressive Conservative MP in the Nova Scotia riding of Central Nova, has died at the age of 89. His son, Peter MacKay, who also served as the MP of Central Nova, announced his father’s death on X Friday morning. “His was an extraordinary life, collecting legions of friends leaving a legacy of hard work & public service,” said Peter MacKay. “He loved the forest, poetry, sport, law & good debate, the Yankees & especially his family. Deeply missed & alive in our hearts. Sleep well Pop, you earned your rest.” Elmer MacKay was born in Hopewell, N.S., in 1936 and practised law in Pictou County before turning to politics. He served as the MP for Central Nova from May 1971 to June 1983, when he resigned his seat so Brian Mulroney, who was the federal PC leader at the time, could run for Parliament. Elmer MacKay was re-elected in Central Nova in September 1984 — after Mulroney decided to return to his home province of Quebec, where he won the riding of Manicouagan — serving until October 1993, when he retired. He was a PC cabinet minister under the Mulroney government, with portfolios including Public Works, the Atlantic Canada Opportunity Agency, National Revenue, and Regional Economic Expansion. Elmer MacKay also served as the solicitor general of Canada from 1984 to 1985. ‘Extraordinary act of generosity’ Brian Mulroney’s son, Mark Mulroney, said MacKay was not just a colleague to his father, but also a “dear friend.” “His decision to step aside and allow Dad to run in Central Nova was an extraordinary act of generosity that changed the course of our family’s life and helped shape the course of Canadian history,” said Mark Mulroney. “Mr MacKay meant so much to our family, and we will always be grateful for his friendship, loyalty, and kindness.” Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston paid tribute to MacKay, calling him “one of Pictou County’s greatest representatives.” “For those of us from Pictou County, the MacKay name has been part of the fabric of public life for as long as most of us can remember,” said Houston. “Elmer set that standard, and he set it high.” The premier recalled that MacKay kept his name and number in the phone book so people could always reach him. “Over the years, our MLA offices would often hear from Elmer if he was talking to a person he thought we might be able to help,” said Houston. “He was a great person who was always eager to help people.” Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre said he was “heartbroken” to hear of MacKay’s passing, calling him a “wonderful friend and mentor.” “I regularly sought his advice and observations, drawing on his deep knowledge of history to guide us in the present,” said Poilievre. “Elmer was a legend. On top of a very successful career as a businessman and investor, he was a true public servant.” Poilievre said MacKay will also be remembered for his kindness and generosity. “The people loved Elmer. And he loved them,” said the Conservative leader. “In Nova Scotia, I still hear stories of Elmer showing up at the homes of the less fortunate right before Christmas with a bundle of gifts and a fresh turkey for supper, never publicizing his generosity.” The flags at the Municipality of Pictou County and Nova Scotia legislature have been lowered to half-mast in MacKay’s memory. For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
