The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador:

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Today, it is with a very heavy heart, I pay tribute to former MHA, colleague, and dear friend, George Murphy.

Like many people across this province, I woke up yesterday morning and was shocked to learn of George’s sudden passing.

George Murphy had a strong voice, a large social conscience and an even bigger heart. His love of Newfoundland and Labrador was just who he was, and it was at the center of everything he did.

He worked for over 30 years in the taxi industry – as a driver, dispatcher, and most recently manager of Jiffy Cabs in St. John’s.

In 2011, George was elected as the Member of the House of Assembly for the District of St. John’s East.

Those who served in the House of Assembly with George instantly recognized his passion for making this province a better place for all of us.

His generosity and kindness knew no bounds, and his laughter was infectious. He was always smiling. Always ready to put a positive spin on whatever challenge lay before him.

George was also known to many as the “gas guru.” He spent over 15 years as the spokesperson for the consumer group for fair gas prices. We all looked forward to hearing from George on when to head to the pumps. His knowledge in oil and gas was extensive and truly appreciated by everyone in the Province.

Most recently, George worked with our Liberal Caucus and staff in the Government Members Office where his sage advice, wise counsel and calmness was respected by all of my colleagues.

But Mr. Speaker, beyond those he helped, he was a husband, father and grandfather.  We are all thinking of his wife, Joy, and children and grandchildren, who have lost someone they loved dearly.

I spoke with Joy yesterday. I passed along condolences to her and his whole family on behalf of this House and the entire province.

Joy told me that just moments before he passed, George posted a picture from his fire pit, with the attached message, “nudding like it.”

That was George. He was able to simplify things to what’s important, to what is meaningful to people he loved – and to those who loved him.

He did that in his professional life as well, Mr. Speaker. And we should all look to the example George Murphy set to help make this Honourable House, this province and this world a better place.

We should do that to honour his memory.

We are all stronger and blessed to have known George Murphy and I am lucky to have called him my friend.

10-4 sir, over and out.