September 27, 2000
Eileen O'Connell, MLA for the riding of Halifax-Fairview has died after a two-year fight with breast cancer. O'Connell underwent extensive treatment and overcame many odds while living with cancer and continuing to serve as an MLA.
She was first elected to the legislature in a by-election in 1996. She was re-elected in 1998 and 1999.
Eileen was a key member of team which helped Helen MacDonald win the leadership of the party this past July. She served most recently as education critic for the party.
Arrangements are now being made for a memorial service and her survivors are asking the public to respect their privacy.
Messages for the family can be left at the NDP Caucus Office at 902-424-4134, or can be e-mailed to her constituency office at fairview@navnet.net.