IN MEMORIAM
Gail Shea, Prince Edward Island
It is with deep sorrow that the community reflects on the passing of Gail A. Shea, a revered public servant and former Member of Parliament for the riding of Egmont, Prince Edward Island. Gail passed away at the age of 66, leaving behind a legacy marked by integrity, service, and steadfast dedication to the people she served.
A trailblazer in Canadian politics, Gail Shea made history as the first woman from P.E.I. to be appointed to the federal cabinet, serving in several key ministerial roles including Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, and Minister of National Revenue. Her work in these positions was defined by her advocacy for rural communities, her commitment to Atlantic Canada, and her hands-on leadership style.
Before entering federal politics, Shea also served with distinction as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Prince Edward Island, where she held the position of Minister of Transportation and Public Works. She was known not only for her policy acumen but also for her strong sense of accountability and her deep connection with constituents.
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, praising Gail’s tireless work ethic, her gracious spirit, and the impact she made at every level of government. Former colleagues and community members alike remember her as a champion for Islanders—approachable, compassionate, and unwavering in her commitment to public service.
Gail Shea’s passing is a profound loss to Prince Edward Island and to Canada as a whole. Her legacy will live on in the many lives she touched and in the policy changes she championed. She is deeply missed.