Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey has stepped down unexpectedly during a news conference held on Tuesday afternoon, marking the end of his nearly five-year tenure. The announcement sent ripples through the local political scene as Furey expressed his pride and confidence for the province's future but acknowledged it's time for him to move on.
Expressing his gratitude, Furey stated, "It has been a wild and unexpected ride to bring us here to today. To the finish. With a heart full of pride and hard-earned confidence in the future of Newfoundland and Labrador, I must now move on." The decision to resign was not made lightly; rather, it came after personal reflection and conversations with his family. Furey confirmed he could not commit to another term with provincial elections scheduled for later this year.
Furey, who became premier on August 19, 2020, after winning the Liberal leadership election, had made it clear from the start of his political career he did not intend to be a long-term politician. "I had no intention of being a career politician," he reiterated at his resignation announcement. After stepping up from his role as an orthopedic surgeon, Furey's career transition was significant. He remarked on his initial goals when he entered politics, which he believed aligned with the aspirations of the Newfoundlanders and Labradorians he served.
His leadership faced numerous tests from the outset, with challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic fallout. Yet, he led the Liberals to victory during the rocky pandemic election of early 2021, where ballots were delayed due to rising COVID-19 cases. Furey’s leadership during those challenging times, alongside his initiatives to connect with the public through daily briefings, made him a notable figure amid the turmoil.
Despite resigning, Furey leaves behind several accomplishments worth noting, the most significant being his negotiation of a new hydroelectricity agreement with Quebec concerning Churchill Falls. During his term, he successfully negotiated what he referred to as "history made and past wrongs rewritten." This memorandum of agreement, set to replace the 1969 contract, aims to provide approximately $200 billion to each province over its lifespan, making it one of his most celebrated achievements.
Furey also reflected on his leadership amid various adversities, including the financial struggles linked to the Muskrat Falls project and looming trade conflicts with the U.S. He expressed determination palpable during his remarks on these issues, emphasizing the province's natural resources as central to addressing economic uncertainties.
Upon announcing his resignation, Furey conveyed, "I leave with a heavy heart but pride in the work my government has accomplished along the way. Every decision was made for you, and you alone. Every Newfoundlander and Labradorian. For the collective of who we are, and the possibility of who we could be." He announced plans to make way for the party to select his successor and confirmed he will remain as premier until then, ensuring continuity during the transition period.
Furey's departure is particularly poignant as it follows closely behind the recent resignation of Prince Edward Island’s Premier Dennis King, adding to the current wave of political changes across Atlantic Canada.
Furey’s experiences and background played significant roles throughout his career. Having been involved with the Liberal Party from his youth—his connections run deep; his father, George Furey, was the former Speaker of the Senate, and his uncle, Chuck Furey, served as a provincial legislator. Furey’s educational path saw him earning his medical degree from Memorial University, where he trained in clinical epidemiology and orthopedic surgery.
Community leaders and political figures expressed their sentiments following Furey’s announcement. Many highlighted his efforts over the past years and his dedication to public service, voicing their support for his transition back to the medical field. The ramifications of his events will continue to play out as his party prepares for the next chapter, marking yet another significant moment for Newfoundland and Labrador as they approach their upcoming elections.
Moving forward, the search for Furey’s successor will be closely watched as the province navigates the complex challenges it faces within its political and economic landscapes.