A local MP Says Stephen Harper was the best Prime Minister Canada has seen in his generation. Selkirk-Interlake-Eastman MP James Bezan's words come after Harper announced his decision to leave the political realm yesterday morning. Bezan worked closely with Harper when the Conservatives were in power, as Bezan was the parliamentary secretary to the minister of national defence. He says the former prime minister had accomplished many things for Canadians. 

"It includes reducing our taxes to the lowest levels we've seen in over fifty years, reinstating Canada's role as a principled and valued partner on the world stage. He was an incredibly strong leader."

He describes Harper as the smartest person he'd even met, noting there was an amazing amount of respect for him in the House of Commons for his views, and focus on policy. Bezan says while Harper could be described as a "policy wonk" for his in-depth focus on analyzing and putting together policies, his contributions go far beyond the day-to-day operations of the country. He says Harper did incredible work during managing the Quebec Separatist movement, and was a strong leader at among the G-7 and G-20. However, he says it's likely Harper will be best remembered for his work with the former finance minister during the global recession.

"Ultimately, I think most of us in Canada from a domestic front will recognize him and Jim Flaherty for they work they did guiding Canada through the global recession recovery from 2009 to 2011, bringing Canada out the quickest from that world-wide recession, bringing in over a million new jobs."

Overall Bezan says they wish Harper the best in his future endeavours, adding he'll continue to make a great contribution where ever he goes.