(YELLOWKNIFE) Tuesday, September 17, 2024 – The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Shane Thompson, expresses heartfelt condolences to the family of the Honourable Tony Whitford, who passed away yesterday.
The Honourable Tony Whitford was a highly respected figure in the Northwest Territories, first elected to the Legislative Assembly in 1988. He represented the riding of Yellowknife South during the 11th and 12th Assemblies and went on to serve as Speaker of the House from 2000 to 2003. In addition to his time as Speaker, Mr. Whitford held numerous leadership roles including Deputy Commissioner from 2004 to 2005, Commissioner of the Northwest Territories from 2005 to 2010, and Sergeant-at-Arms during the 13th Legislative Assembly.
“On behalf of the Members and staff of the Legislative Assembly, I extend my deepest sympathies to Tony’s family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know him. Tony’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of our Assembly, and his contributions to public life are unmatched” said Speaker Shane Thompson “Tony was a cherished presence in our halls. His frequent visits, full of warmth, stories, and laughter, brought a special light to the Assembly that we will deeply miss. I know I speak for staff and Members when I say that his absence will leave a void in our hearts. His Speaker Robes, displayed in the Great Hall, will stand as a lasting tribute to the legacy of service and kindness he left behind, reminding us always of the man he was. He served our Territory with dignity and humility, and his warmth, kindness, and community spirit will be remembered for years to come.”
A lifelong public servant and advocate for the North, Mr. Whitford’s service extended beyond his role as Speaker. He served as Minister of Health and Social Services during the 12th Assembly and was involved in numerous Standing Committees, including Agencies, Boards and Commissions, Legislation, and Finance. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Tony Whitford was inducted into the Order of the Northwest Territories in 2016.
Throughout his career, Tony Whitford was known for his dedication to the people of the Northwest Territories, as well as his extensive community work. He was a long-term member of Rotary, a volunteer auctioneer, and a fundraiser, and worked tirelessly to promote the values of the North at both the national and international levels.
The flags at the Legislative Assembly building in Yellowknife have been lowered to half-mast, and Mr. Whitford’s Speaker portrait will be displayed in the Great Hall to honour his memory.
For further information, please contact:
Public Affairs and Communications
Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly