OTTAWA – “I am delighted to see that Pat Binns has been appointed Canada’s Ambassador to Ireland,” says Leon Benoit, Member of Parliament for Vegreville-Wainwright. “Pat was born in Lloydminster and has gone on to a distinguished career which is clearly not over.”

Ireland is a country from which Canada can learn a lot. It was one of the poorest countries in the European Union 20 years ago and is now one of the wealthiest. Ireland improved their fortunes through tax cuts and a focus on education and training. “Mr. Binns is just the man to help Canada harness the knowledge which can be gleaned from their success,” Benoit notes.

Benoit and Mr. Binns attended the same school in Lloydminster so it is interesting to watch his career and continued success.

“Pat served in P.E.I.’s provincial legislature and held many Cabinet portfolios,” recalls Benoit. “Among other positions, he was elected the Member of Parliament for Cardigan and eventually became leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of P.E.I. and the 30th premier in 1996.”

During his 11 years as Premier, Mr. Binns established the P.E.I. Cancer Treatment Centre, founded and led Team Atlantic Trade Missions abroad and promoted the bio-science industry.

“We from Lloydminster are very proud of Pat’s accomplishments, and clearly the Prime Minister is as well,” states Benoit. “I wish him all the best as he takes on this new role as Ambassador to Ireland. Congratulations, Pat!”