June 2, 2013 - The Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, today issued the following statement on the passing of retired Senator the Honourable James (Jim) Kelleher:
“I am saddened today to note the passing of retired Senator Jim Kelleher, who was Canada’s Minister for International Trade in 1985-86 under then-Prime Minister Brian Mulroney.
“Jim was an ardent supporter of free trade and a committed advocate for Canada who was instrumental in recommending the removal of protectionist barriers between Canada and the United States and setting our two nations on a course that would ultimately lead to the Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement in 1988.
“It is thanks to the work and leadership of people like Jim that Canada continues to harness the prosperity-generating power of free and open trade.
“I extend my sincere condolences to his family and friends.”
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Rudy Husny
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Ed Fast
Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway
613-992-7332
rudy.husny@international.gc.ca
Trade Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-996-2000
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