Whitehorse – Rod Taylor announced today he is ending his bid to represent the Yukon Liberal Party in the next territorial election in order to manage growing business interests outside the Yukon and to have the flexibility to provide support for his family in Ontario. Taylor is currently the Chief Executive Officer of the International Ecotourism Development Corporation, a company that creates world class eco-resorts as well as provides consultation services to the tourism industry. 

“The company is doing well and demanding more and more attention on a daily basis,” he said.  “Unfortunately I am no longer able to manage those demands from here.  In moving to Campbell River, B.C. the arrangement I have made will also allow me to spend a significant amount of time in Ontario as required, in order to spend time with my parents and provide any needed support in the future.”

Liberal Leader Sandy Silver said he is disappointed with this turn of events but supports Taylor’s decision.

“As Rod always says, it is what it is. Last summer I was very pleased to welcome him into the Yukon Liberal Party as a potential candidate in the upcoming election,” said Silver. “Late last week he informed me of his decision to leave the territory to become more deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of the private company he heads.  That, combined with his need to be closer to his ageing parents, means Rod had no choice but to drop out as a candidate. While personally disappointed I know Rod is doing what is best for his family and I wish him well.”

Taylor said he continues to be impressed with Silver’s ability to work collaboratively with other people and his strong leadership skills. 

“It was a very difficult conversation I had with him last week because I know how much he has invested in building the party in recent years. He was very gracious and that is another example of the kind of person he really is.  He is building a strong team and the party is in great shape heading into an election year,” Taylor said.  “It was a tough decision to make and I am sorry I will not be part of the Liberal slate in the election.  I continue to support Sandy and the Yukon Liberal Party, and I continue to believe that Sandy and his team are the best option for Yukoners in the coming election. I also intend to be active behind the scenes until I depart for Campbell River this summer.”

The party has nomination meetings set for the first week of March in Mount Lorne-Southern Lakes and Whitehorse Centre.  Several individuals have announced they are seeking a Liberal nomination and another interested candidate will be making her intentions known this coming week.

-30-

For more information call:

Rod Taylor – 335-4432

Sandy Silver- 336-4367

Jason Cunning 334-5518