Former Canadian Senator, political staffer, and Kingston resident, Hugh Segal has died. Late in the evening of Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, news of Segal’s passing first broke; the longtime political strategist, policy analyst, and former Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister was 72.
Hugh Segal had a distinguished career in Canadian politics and public service. Here are some highlights of his career:
Early Years and Education:
Hugh Segal was born on June 13, 1950, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Ottawa and later completed his Master’s degree at the London School of Economics.
Political Engagement:
Segal became involved in politics at an early age, working with various political figures and organizations. He was a Progressive Conservative Party strategist during the 1970s.
Advisory Roles:
He served in advisory roles to multiple political leaders, including Prime Minister Brian Mulroney.
Chief of Staff:
Segal served as Chief of Staff to Prime Minister Mulroney from 1992 to 1993.
Senate Appointment:
In 2005, he was appointed to the Senate of Canada by Prime Minister Paul Martin as a Conservative Senator representing Ontario.
Policy Advocate:
Segal was known for his advocacy on various policy issues, including poverty reduction, social justice, and foreign policy.
Contributions:
He played a role in various Senate committees, including the Special Committee on Anti-terrorism and the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade.
Retirement:
Hugh Segal retired from the Senate in 2014 after nearly a decade of service.
Author and Commentator:
After his retirement, he continued to be active as an author, commentator, and public speaker, sharing his insights on Canadian politics and policy.
Academic and Civic Involvement:
He held academic positions at various institutions, including Queen’s University, and was involved in numerous civic organizations.
Awards and Honors:
Throughout his career, Segal received several awards and honors for his contributions to politics and public service.
Hugh Segal’s career was marked by his dedication to public service, his involvement in shaping policy, and his commitment to making a positive impact on Canadian society.