Former MLA says free trade talks demonstrated Mulroney's leadership ability (Canadian Press Image)

By Brian Konrad

‘Ability and his willingness to hear other people’s points of view’: Retired Medicine Hat politician recalls Brian Mulroney

Mar 23, 2024 | 5:00 AM

Many Canadians have been sharing their memories of former prime minister Brian Mulroney since he passed away on Feb. 29.

That includes a Medicine Hat man who was personally involved with Mulroney during a key part of his time in office.

Jim Horsman was the Deputy Premier and the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, while serving as Medicine Hat MLA in the Alberta government between 1975 and 1993.

That included the debate over the North American Free Trade deal, something Horsman recalls Mulroney was initially opposed to, but was persuaded by several premiers to take up the cause at a First Ministers meeting in Regina in 1985.

“What impressed me was his ability and his willingness to hear other people’s points of view and to agree, and if necessary, to change his mind which he did on the subject to undertake the free trade negotiations,” Horsman said.

WHAT'S ON

Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat and area: Dec. 13-15

Dec 14, 2024

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Mustard Seed adding new shelter spaces at Alberta government's request

Dec 12, 2024

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner, applications due Friday

Dec 12, 2024

Horsman said that Mulroney showed his leadership ability to understand, adapt and then to undertake to carry on behalf of not just himself or the federal government but the provinces as well.

He also feels Mulroney’s ability to negotiate was responsible for the benefits that evolved from the free trade talks.

CHAT News is carrying the funeral coverage live at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday.