The inaugural cohort of the Riddell Program will mark the end of the academic year on April 2 with a cross-partisan networking reception and panel discussion on “Driving professionalism in politics: The evolving role of political staffers in Canadian politics.” Keynote speaker is David McLaughlin, who brings a long view and a wealth of experience to the topic. Mr. McLaughlin was Prime Minister Brian Mulroney’s last chief of staff and subsequently became chief of staff to New Brunswick Premier Bernard Lord. With the election of the Conservative government in 2006, he became chief of staff to Minister of Finance Jim Flaherty. He is currently president and chief executive officer of the National Roundtable on the Environment and the Economy.
Adding to the discussion are three panelists from across the political spectrum. Anne McGrath was chief of staff to NDP leader Jack Layton, and one of the architects of the party’s ascension to the Official Opposition. She is currently chief of staff to interim NDP leader Nycole Turmel. Edward (“Eddie”) Goldenberg was chief of staff to Prime Minister Jean Chrétien and is the author of The Way It Works: Inside Ottawa. He is currently a partner with Bennett Jones LLP. Dimitri Soudas was director of communications for Prime Minister Stephen Harper and is now director of communications for the Canadian Olympic Committee. The discussion will be moderated by TVOntario’s Steve Paikin.
The event will be held at the Rideau Club, 99 Bank Street, 15th floor, from 6-8:30 p.m. For additional information, please contact ikorbabi@connect.carleton.ca