Hal Perry has been chosen as the Leader of the Official Opposition and Interim Leader of the Liberal Party.

“I want to thank my caucus members and our party executive for putting their support behind me,” Perry said. “This is an exciting opportunity as we move forward as the Official Opposition and bring a new energy to holding the Dennis King Government to account.”

Perry was first elected as the MLA for District 27, Tignish-Palmer Road, in 2011. Since then, Perry has served as Minister of Education Early Learning and Culture, the Vice-Chair of the Council of Ministers of Canada, and recently served as Deputy Speaker for the last four years. Prior to his election, he was employed as a Property Development Officer with the Province.

Perry is taking over as Leader of the Liberal Party from Sharon Cameron, who stepped down last week following the election.

“Hal Perry brings experience and dedication to this role,” said Party President Katie Morello. “He will serve the party, Islanders and his constituents well.”

Perry intends to focus his efforts on preparing for the upcoming legislative session and continuing the party rebuild at the grassroots level, and reconnecting the party with Island voters.

“I look forward to getting out to the districts to listen and engage with Islanders,” Perry said. “There is a great deal of work to get done and my caucus colleagues and I look forward to getting started.”