A surprise announcement on Sunday ends the 25-year political career of one of the most popular representatives in local history.
On March 23, the same day Prime Minister Mark Carney visited the governor general to send Canadians to the polls, Brandon-Souris Member of Parliament Larry Maguire announced he would not be running in the April 28 election. The move was a surprise to constituents, but was due to serious circumstances.
“The responsibility of representing the people of Brandon-Souris as the Member of Parliament for the past 11 years, as well as the 14 years prior to that as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Arthur-Virden, apart from my partner, family, and my 33-year farming career, has been the most fulfilling highlight of my life,” Maguire stated.
“However, today I am announcing that I will not seek re-election in Brandon-Souris. This decision is based on being recently informed of a concerning health condition that may prevent me from participating in some or all of the campaign and could impede my ability to give my full attention in the future.”
Maguire has long been a part of the local political scene for the Conservative Party. The Elgin native first ran in Brandon-Souris for the then federal Progressive Conservative Party in 1993, losing in an election that saw only two PC’s gain a seat in the House of Commons. He returned provincially in 1999, running to take over from retiring Jim Downey in the seat of Arthur-Virden. He successfully took his seat in the Manitoba Legislature, later filling several critic roles. He was re-elected in 2003 and 2007. When Brandon-Souris MP Merv Tweed resigned the seat in 2013, Maguire moved over and won a by-election, and was re-elected by large majorities in 2015, 2019 and 2021.
Jordan Sisson, president of the Brandon-Souris Conservative Electoral District Association, said they heard about Maguire’s decision at 1pm on the 23rd, shortly before it was publicly announced. There were no early indications this would happen.
“Absolutely a surprise,” Sisson said. “We were actively in campaign mode preparing for the writ drop yesterday afternoon when we needed to come together for a urgent meeting. Larry had every intention on running and I think he was as surprised as anyone that it would not be a possibility any longer.”
Reflecting on his career, Maguire said there were several accomplishments in the riding he was proud of. They secured federal funding to refurbish the Brandon Airport, an important link for the whole area. Critical flood protection infrastructure was built in many communities. Federal funding helped construct the new 18th street bridge, known as the Daly Overpass, in Brandon, with Maguire saying adding the fourth lane helped make traffic congestion a thing of the past.
He added he still receives emails from families who remark on how his private member’s bill, C-208, saved them thousands of dollars when transferring farms to children or grandchildren.
For many in the area, however, Maguire will be best remembered for his continuous presence in the communities. There were few events, such as fairs, community celebrations or even Christmas concerts, that the MLA or MP did not attend. His constant presence among his constituents was always appreciated, and he seemed to truly enjoy being there, talking to people or tossing candy during a parade.
Maguire gave thanks to his staff for their help over the years and who have reached out to him with concern. As well, he showed appreciation to the people of the whole region.
“I want to thank every person, including the board of directors of the local Conservative Electoral District Association in Brandon-Souris, for their support during the sometimes trying years,” Maguire said. “Westman is undoubtedly one of the best regions of Canada.”
Right after the announcement, the Conservative Party went into overdrive to find a new candidate. Spruce Woods MLA Grant Jackson of Souris, who worked for Maguire, will be running. Sisson said he is a great candidate, but added Maguire deserves all of the accolades coming his way, and will definitely be missed.
“With over 11 years in the federal role and 14 in his role as MLA for Arthur-Virden, Larry has done so much for all of Westman,” Sisson said. “I personally am lucky to call Larry a mentor and a friend and he has been with me in one capacity or another for all of my political life. The constituents will undoubtedly miss Larry, but we all know him well enough that he will be around for many years to come full of stories and advice. Our thoughts are with Larry as he overcomes this current health crisis and on behalf of the Brandon Souris EDA we thank Larry from the bottom of our hearts.”
Maguire said he always carefully considered the energy needed to fulfill his role adding he very much enjoyed working with his staff for the betterment of the area.
“As I step away, I feel incredibly blessed and offer my sincere blessings to all,” Maguire stated.
by PAUL RAYNER
Recorder staff