I’ve learned of some of the names that are on the Prime Minister’s short-list of potential senators. The PM is expected to name 17 or 18 senators within the next 7 days (according to the latest timetable).
In British Columbia, I’ve heard that olympian Nancy Greene is being considered by the PM. A gold-medal-winning skier from the 1968 Grenoble olympics, the Prime Minister would be happy to name a Canadian champion to the senate that would underscore Canada’s role in welcoming the world to the Olympics in Vancouver in 2010. It is not yet known if Greene would accept the appointment.
Also in British Columbia, the Prime Minister is said to be looking at making an aboriginal appointment to the senate. Chief Clarence Louie of the Osoyoos First Nations is said to be a name that is on the PM’s short list. Louie is an aboriginal leader who emphasizes increased self-reliance and a shift in responsibility for the way in which first nations communities deal with the state.
In Prince Edward Island, I’ve heard that the Prime Minister may be looking to a former Premier to sit in the senate. Pat Binns is currently the ambassador to Ireland and so, I’ve heard that the PM will look back further to find a senator. James Lee was the Progressive Conservative Premier from 1981-1986. PM Chretien named former PEI Premier Catherine Callbeck to the Senate in 1997, so now that a Senate seat is open to Harper in PEI, I’ve heard that the PM is considering Lee.