Former Provencher NDP candidate Al Mackling

Former Provencher NDP candidate Al Mackling is adding his voice to the numerous tributes coming in from across Manitoba, and Canada, Monday following the death of NDP leader Jack Layton.  Reached at his home Monday morning, an emotional Mackling says Layton was a man all Canadians should be proud of.

"I think the people of Canada have lost someone who was dedicated to making Canada a better place.  I think he has earned the respect of people throughout Canada for that."

Mackling says he was able to meet Layton a number of times on his travels through Winnipeg, including this past spring.

"When he was in Winnipeg in the campaign, I did get a chance to chat with him for a few moments, pointing out to him that he could refer to a letter that Mackenzie King had signed, committing himself to introducing Old Age Pensions and Worker's Compensation.  That letter was in a frame in the old CCF office in Ottawa for many, many years.  We were under attack for going along and supporting minority governments, etc.  That support was crucial in the development of the programs that are fundamental in Canada today."

Mackling says there are a number of accomplishments that Layton leaves behind.  Most notably, his work in Quebec.

"He was able to change the political perspective in Quebec and that was a remarkable achievement.  We've been a political party for many, many years...as the CCF and then the NDP, but our presence in Quebec was nominal.  This was a fundamental breakthrough in Quebec."

Layton's battle with cancer is one Mackling says he can certainly relate to.  He adds he wasn't surprised at how fast it took the charismatic leader.

"My wife has a form of cancer that is generally fatal, but she has succeeded in fighting it.  I have prostate cancer so, I am familiar with the various forms of cancer.  Some of them move very quickly and despite treatment, you can't do anything with them."

Mackling agrees the loss of Layton is a huge one for the NDP.  However, he says the party will move froward and try to build on what their former leader accomplished.

"There are many men and women of principal in the party.  Our party attracts people who are committed to doing something to better the world, not just to have a nice job or line their pockets.  I'm sure that there will be good people coming forward."