Former Nova Scotia premier John Hamm dies at 88

Houston said Hamm's leadership left a lasting impact on Nova Scotia, highlighting his work on the Atlantic Accord

Former Nova Scotia premier John Hamm has died at the age of 88. Premier Tim Houston issued a statement Monday afternoon saying he will remember Hamm for “his strength, his quiet dignity and for his determination to improve the lives of the people he served.” Prior to being premier, Hamm worked as a family doctor in Pictou County before entering politics as MLA for Pictou Centre in 1993.

In 1999 he became leader of the Nova Scotia Progressive Conservative Party and served as premier from 1999 until his retirement in 2006. Following his time in politics, Hamm was made an officer of the Order of Canada for his work as premier and his efforts in health care, serving as the chair of Assisted Human Reproduction Canada. In his statement, Houston highlighted Hamm’s legacy as a doctor and public servant, pointing to some of his achievements as premier.

“He made a landmark investment in Nova Scotia Community College, calling it an investment in the province’s future.” Houston also pointed to the successful negotiation of the Canada-Nova Scotia Atlantic Accord, which oversaw the development of offshore petroleum resources, calling it “among (Hamm’s) most significant achievements.” “He was a tireless champion for the province, and his successful Campaign for Fairness ensured Nova Scotians would be the primary beneficiaries of the province’s resources.”

Houston offered condolences to Hamm’s family, adding that flags on all provincial buildings will be at half mast in honour of the former premier.