Premier Robert Ghiz today extended condolences to the family of the Honourable Gilbert R. Clements who died in Montague this morning.
“Mr. Clements made an outstanding contribution to the public life of this province during his long and distinguished career as a member of the legislative assembly, cabinet minister and lieutenant governor,” said Premier Ghiz. “He will be especially remembered for his commitment to the protection and enhancement of the environment and his loyalty to the people he represented.”
Mr. Clements was first elected to the legislative assembly in the district of Fourth Kings in 1970. He was subsequently re-elected in 1974, 1979, 1982, 1986, 1989 and 1993. In 1981, he served as interim leader of the Liberal Party and leader of the Official Opposition. In 1995, he was appointed as the province’s Lieutenant Governor. He held a number of cabinet positions in the government of Premier Alex B. Campbell and was Minister of Finance in the government of Premier Joe Ghiz.
“Throughout his life, Gilbert Clements was deeply admired and respected for his dedication to public service,” said Innovation and Advanced Learning Minister Allen Roach. “I was proud to call him a friend and mentor, and he was a great inspiration to me.”
Mr. Clements was 84 years old.
“On behalf of the Government of Prince Edward Island, I want to extend our sincerest sympathies to his wife Wilma and his family,” said Premier Ghiz.
Flags on all Government of Canada buildings and establishments in the province of Prince Edward Island, will be flown at half-mast from now until sunset on the day of the funeral.