It is truly a privilege to stand here and speak a few words of tribute to Mr. Edward Thomas Philip’s remarkable life and contributions. Edward passed away peacefully at Mackenzie Health hospital in Richmond Hill on January 31, 2022, at the age of 81.

I would like to extend my welcome to his family members, who were just introduced—Mr. Andrew Philip, who is here today, and another member of his family who couldn’t be here today, Ms. Audrey Philip—as we honour Edward and his years of service to Ontario.

Born in Montreal, Edward moved to Ontario and received his bachelor of arts and master of education degrees from the University of Ottawa, and a PhD from the University of Toronto.

He was a dedicated leader. Even before his time in politics, Edward led leadership training at the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.

Edward Thomas Philip’s political career was very successful as he first entered politics in 1975, representing the riding of Etobicoke–Rexdale. Edward was the chair of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, and he played a role in monitoring the Office of the Provincial Auditor, Management Board of Cabinet, the Ministry of Government Services, and the Ombudsman. Edward held important roles as the NDP critic for housing, rent review, government services, transportation and communications. He also held the position of deputy whip.

The public and Edward’s peers saw his passion translate into his work. As a condominium owner, he made condominium issues one of the strongest platforms for his political career. He would often have 10- to 15-hour days, with his Queen’s Park office flooded with phone messages from hundreds of people regarding housing-related concerns. He saw this as his responsibility and the responsibility of the office he held. Edward looked after all these people and desperately tried to ensure condominium owners were treated fairly.

Edward was a very hard-working and committed man to his province and saw the value of provincial politics. These were the issues that affected families directly, the things people spoke about around the dinner table, and the ones they thought about before they went to bed. He would say he wouldn’t enter other levels of politics because there are too many things to do provincially. Don’t we all know that?

Aside from his political career, Edward did not shy away from opportunities to make a difference. He was a freelance writer, broadcaster, former director of Mental Health Canada, and a member of the Ontario Association for Continuing Education and the Creative Education Foundations.

A creative man, Edward’s hobbies consisted of theatre and music.

Without a doubt, Edward lived a life full of extraordinary achievements. He was a very caring man whose legacy will continue to live on. I thank him for his service, and I extend my condolences to his family and loved ones.

May he rest in peace.