DARTMOUTH, N.S. - Stephen McNeil, a provincial politician touted as an honest, hard-working Nova Scotian, became the fourth person Tuesday to announce his candidacy for the leadership of the provincial Liberal party.
Flanked by Nova Scotia Liberal MP Robert Thibeault and a couple of caucus colleagues, the member for Annapolis said he he wants to build a "socially progressive, fiscally responsible party.''
McNeil, 42, spoke to about 100 supporters in Dartmouth, many of whom munched on Annapolis Valley apples emblazoned with stickers bearing his name.
The party's next leader will be chosen at a delegated leadership convention April 27 and 28 in Dartmouth.
The standings in the legislature are 23 Progressive Conservatives, 20 New Democrats and 9 Liberals.
McNeil's rivals are Colchester County Mayor Mike Smith, Halifax lawyer Kenzie MacKinnon and caucus colleague Diana Whalen, who has represented the riding of Halifax Clayton Park since 2003.
The twelfth of 17 children, McNeil was educated at the Nova Scotia Community College and once owned and operated a small refrigeration service company.
In 2003, McNeil was first elected to the house of assembly and was re-elected last year. His critic portfolio includes agriculture, tourism and culture, and seniors.
If elected leader, the Upper Granville resident said he would work to boost the profile of the third-place party.
"I don't think they've felt that we are an option, quite frankly,'' said McNeil, a married father of two.
Pollster Don Mills of Corporate Research Associates said McNeil's campaign faces a huge challenge.
"He really has no public profile,'' Mills said in an interview. "The challenge for an unknown candidate is to be able to. . .demonstrate to their party that they are a legitimate contender for the role of premier.''
Two other caucus members showed up for McNeil's announcement: Leo Glavine, the member for Kings West, and Junior Theriault, who represents Digby-Annapolis. The two districts are adjacent to McNeil's district.
"I see somebody who has quiet, but strong leadership qualities,'' said Glavine.
"I like Stephen's ability to resonate with all Nova Scotians. . .the blue-collar worker, the working poor.''
Potential contenders have until Feb. 15 to join the race to replace former leader Francis MacKenzie, who resigned after he failed to win a seat in the provincial election last June.
