Canada’s New Government renames Halifax International Airport in honour of Robert L. Stanfield

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced the renaming of Halifax International Airport to Halifax Robert L. Stanfield International Airport. The new name proclaimed today is effective immediately.

“Today’s renaming is a fitting tribute to a great Nova Scotian and a great Canadian, a man who will always be recognized as one of this province’s finest leaders and, as we all know, the best Prime Minister Canada never had,” said the Prime Minister.

Robert L. Stanfield was first elected to the Nova Scotia Legislature as a member in 1949.  He was premier of the province from 1956 until 1967.  Mr. Stanfield served as leader of Her Majesty's Loyal Opposition in the House of Commons from 1967 until 1976.

"It is an honour to pay tribute today to a beloved Canadian whose thoughtful policies on education, among other areas, created a legacy for generations of Nova Scotians,” said Frank Matheson, chair of the Halifax International Airport Authority Board of Directors. “Naming this growing, bustling airport in Mr. Stanfield’s memory, will serve as a constant reminder of his far reaching contribution to our province and our country.”

“My husband never believed that he deserved honours for doing what he loved,” said Mrs. Anne Stanfield, widow of the late Mr. Stanfield.  “He felt extraordinarily fortunate that the people of Nova Scotia and Canada had given him the opportunity to be Premier and Leader of the Opposition in Ottawa.  He would be overwhelmed to be remembered so generously and in such an enduring way.”