OTTAWA, February 12, 2025 – Today, Nova Scotia Senator Allister Surette announced his decision to join the Independent Senators Group (ISG). Senator Surette’s multidisciplinary expertise spans education, politics, and governance, and he is renowned for his unwavering dedication to Canada’s Francophone and Acadian communities.
As a former member of the Legislative Assembly of Nova Scotia from 1993 to 1998, Senator Surette served multiple ministerial roles throughout his term, including Minister responsible for the Office of Acadian Affairs, and Deputy House Leader. Senator Surette has served as chair for several notable associations and boards of directors, namely the Canadian Foundation for Cross-Cultural Dialogue, the Organizing Committee for the Congrès mondial acadien 2024, the Conseil de développement économique de la Nouvelle-Écosse, and the Association of Atlantic Universities.
Senator Surette has been awarded numerous accolades in acknowledgement of his outstanding leadership and for his devotion to Acadia and the Francophonie, such as the Léger-Comeau Certificate of Merit and the Ordre de la Pléiade (Commander).
“I am delighted to join the ISG. The group’s beliefs in diversity of thought, cooperation, and nonpartisanship find me eager to work with my ISG colleagues and every other senator to represent my region on legislation and issues of interest to Canadians.” – Independent Senator Allister Surette
“The ISG is privileged to welcome another proud Acadian advocate. Senator Surette’s handling of important portfolios in the Nova Scotia government and his many years championing the Acadian and Francophone communities will undoubtedly make him an invaluable voice in our institution for the Atlantic region, for the Francophonie, and for all Canadians. He will add a new dimension to the ISG’s diversity of expertise.” – Senator Raymonde Saint-Germain, ISG Facilitator
Senator Allister Surette was nominated to the Senate on December 19, 2024. His addition to the Independent Senators Group brings the total membership to 41.
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Dedicated to serving Canadians and democracy, the Independent Senators Group (ISG) provides informed and non-partisan sober second thought to legislation and contemporary issues our country is facing. Founded in 2016, the ISG has led the reform transition to a more independent and less partisan Senate, reflecting the needs and views of a diverse and modern Canada.
For more information please contact:
Ro Izzetpanah
Senior Communications Specialist
Independent Senators Group
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