MP Dave MacKenzie reacts to Foreign Affairs Minister, John Baird's announcement of his retirement.
OTTAWA - Oxford MP Dave MacKenzie says he was shocked to learn of Foreign Affairs Minister, John Baird's resignation.
Rumblings of his intentions to resign surfaced Monday night and Tuesday morning at the House of Commons, Baird surprised many when he confirmed he was stepping out of political life.
According to MacKenzie, the departing minister did not indicate what his plans were for the future.
Baird, who is now 45, started his political career with the Ontario Mike Harris government when he was 25 years old.
In a written statement, Prime Minister Stephen Harper thanked Baird for his years of "tireless devotion to Canadians in the House of Commons, in Cabinet and in the Legislature of Ontario.''
MacKenzie recognizes it will be difficult to find someone to fill the void Baird will leave behind. "Certainly, he's going to be missed and I think the comments that came from the opposition parties were very accurate, he's a very dynamic guy, has done a great job around the world and certainly put Canada first when it comes to many issues with respects to foreign affairs and standing up for life, liberty and freedom for many nations."
MacKenzie believes Baird's intentions are to stay in the House for a little while but not until the end of the term. At this point, MacKenzie is not certain who will replace the outgoing minister.

UPDATE: Video Footage Wanted for Death Investigation
MURC: Coming Soon to Ingersoll!
Candidate Information Session Coming Up
EZT Remembers Former Ward 3 Councillor
SWPH Issues Cold Weather Alert
UPDATE: Strong Winds Continue this Morning
Woodstock Resident Charged with Speeding
Interview with the Mayor - March 16th, 2026
Woodstock Driver Charged in Brant County
PJHL Playoff Recap - March 13th to March 15th
March Break Safety Tips from Oxford OPP
Oxford-Elgin Rainbow Research Project Underway
OPP: Plan Ahead Before St. Paddy's Day Festivities
Another Friday the 13th in Port Dover Today
Hansen Parents Visit Artemis II Explorers Club at IDCI
East Oxford Parents Respond to AARC Announcement
Strong Winds Expected in Oxford
WPS Charge Two in Firearms Incident
Food Rescue Hub Receives $50,000
Interview with the Warden - March 12th, 2026
Comments
Add a comment