Ron Irwin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ron Irwin
|
|
|---|---|
| MP for Sault Ste. Marie | |
| In office 1980–1984 |
|
| Preceded by | Cyril Symes |
| Succeeded by | James Kelleher |
| In office 1993–1997 |
|
| Preceded by | Steve Butland |
| Succeeded by | Carmen Provenzano |
| Personal details | |
| Born | October 29, 1936 Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario |
| Died | December 5, 2020 (aged 84) |
| Political party | Liberal |
| Occupation | lawyer, municipal politician |
Ronald A. Irwin CM PC QC (October 29, 1936 – December 5, 2020) was an important Canadian politician and diplomat. He served his country in many ways, from being a local mayor to representing Canada in other countries.
Contents
Ron Irwin's Early Life and Education
Ron Irwin was born in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, in 1936. He went to the University of Western Ontario for his first degree. Later, he studied law at Osgoode Hall Law School at York University. This education helped him prepare for a career in public service.
Serving His Hometown
Before becoming a national politician, Ron Irwin was very active in his hometown.
- From 1972 to 1974, he was the mayor of Sault Ste. Marie.
- He also worked as a school trustee, helping with local schools.
- He was an alderman, which is like a city council member.
- He directed the local Chamber of Commerce, which helps businesses.
- From 1977 to 1980, he was part of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission. This group makes rules for TV and radio in Canada.
Ron Irwin in Parliament
Ron Irwin became a MP for the first time in 1980. He was elected as a member of the Liberal Party.
- He worked as a special assistant to Jean Chrétien, who was the Justice Minister at the time.
- After losing his seat in 1984, he was re-elected to Parliament in 1993.
Becoming a Government Minister
When the Liberal Party won the election in 1993, Jean Chrétien became the Prime Minister of Canada. He chose Ron Irwin to be a minister in his government.
- Ron Irwin became the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development. This job involved working with Indigenous communities and managing affairs in Canada's northern regions.
- He left Parliament in 1997.
Ron Irwin's Diplomatic Roles
After leaving Parliament, Ron Irwin continued to serve Canada on the world stage.
- From 1997 to 1998, he was a personal advisor to Prime Minister Chrétien.
- In 1998, he was appointed as the Canadian Ambassador to Ireland. He represented Canada in Ireland until 2001.
- In 2001, he became Canada’s Consul General in Boston, USA. A Consul General helps Canadians living or traveling in that area.
Awards and Later Life
In 1975, Ron Irwin was recognized for his contributions to Canada. He was made a Member of the Order of Canada, which is a high honor for Canadians. He passed away on December 5, 2020, at the age of 84.
