FOG BLOG POLITICS LOG: WINNIPEG MP AND FORMER CABINET MINISTER, JIM CARR DIES OF CANCER AT 71!

Jim Carr, Manitoba MP and former cabinet minister, dies after battle with cancer 'I love every square metre of this country,' Carr said in one of his last interviews Manitoba MP and former cabinet minister Jim Carr is being remembered for his humour and dedication to Canada following his death after a battle with cancer.

The news was announced in the House of Commons Monday.

Carr, who had represented Winnipeg South Centre since 2015, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma during the 2019 federal election campaign and battled kidney failure.

He was 71.

In one of his final interviews, Carr told CBC's Power & Politics last week that while his health was failing, he was still grateful for another opportunity to contribute to the country he loved so much.

"Physically not great, but emotionally really, really solid and grateful for the chance to continue to contribute to my country," he said with a smile. "I love every square metre of this country in English, en Francais, in Indigenous languages — I wish I spoke more of them — in the language of the newly arrived and all that represents to Canada and Canadians." In a statement, his family said he was pleased to see his bill, "Building a Green Prairie Economy," pass through the House of Commons just last week.

"Working with his fellow members of Parliament across the country over the past few months on this important legislation filled him with energy and kept his spirits high," the family wrote.

"As a dedicated elected official, business and community leader in Manitoba for over 30 years, Jim was loved and respected by so many and we know he will be profoundly missed."

Carr remembered as 'a gentleman'

His passing brought on a wave of condolence messages from across the country and from his colleagues on both sides of the aisle.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the country has lost a dedicated parliamentarian.

"Jim Carr's passion, tenacity, integrity, humour and commitment to the Prairies were second to none — and we'll miss him dearly," he tweeted.