Today, New Democrats are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Donald C. MacDonald, a truly remarkable man.

Ontario has lost a great Ontarian and New Democrats have lost a great leader. Donald was a rare individual whose legacy has many aspects, but the most enduring were his strength, integrity, irrepressible optimism and humanity. Much of what Ontarians enjoy today is a result of the work of Donald C. MacDonald.

Donald was not just a politician, he was a visionary. As a lifelong New Democrat, Donald never wavered in his commitment to social democracy - he always put his principles first. He was a true believer who never lost faith in the ability of people to build a better world. He was an exceptional grassroots organizer and tireless advocate for his constituents in York South who he represented in the Legislature for 27 years. As Leader of the Ontario CCF (Co-operative Commonwealth Federation) and founding Leader of the Ontario NDP until 1970, Donald built the NDP to the point where it was positioned to form the official opposition in 1975 and government in 1990.

Donald was a fighter for equality who pulled no punches. He was on the forefront on the battle for medicare, for better public education, for the rights of workers, for women’s equality, for the protection of prime farmland. Donald will be remembered as one who fought against injustice and he always did it with dignity. He was indeed, “the best premier Ontario never had.”

Even after he retired from public life, Donald continued to make an enormous contribution to his community. He served in leadership roles on the Boards of the Learning Enrichment Foundation and York Community Services, two pioneering community agencies his vision and relentless determination had helped establish. Donald’s remarkable contributions to public life were publicly recognized as he was appointed Member of the Order of Canada in 2003 and the Order of Ontario

Donald always said that talk was cheap, especially when it came from politicians. In his last days, he must have been amused by the war of words between Ottawa and Queen's Park. Knowing Donald, I am certain he would have demanded action and worked tirelessly to get it.

He was a remarkable man who will be missed - Ontario has lost a great individual.

Our thoughts are with Donald’s family and friends.