EDMONTON — The first leader of the Alberta NDP has died at the age of 88.
Neil Reimer was a longtime politician and labour activist.
He became the first leader of the provincial New Democrats in 1962 and held that position until 1968.
Ray Martin, another former NDP leader, says Reimer’s contributions to the labour movement still benefit thousands of working Alberta families.
His later years were spent working with the Alberta Council on Aging.
His daughter, Jan Reimer, served as mayor of Edmonton from 1989 to 1995.
NDP Leader Brian Mason says Reimer “blazed a trail” for workers in Alberta.
“He came to Alberta at a time when the oil industry was just heating up and workers needed representation.”
Mason also praised Reimer for his public service throughout his life.
“Alberta is a better place to live, thanks to Neil’s decades of selfless service.”