Flags at Ottawa City Hall lowered to half-mast in honour of Michael Cassidy

The flags at Ottawa City Hall (110 Laurier Avenue West) will be lowered to half-mast from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, February 28, in honour of the late Michael Cassidy, who passed away on November 9, 2025.

Michael Cassidy was an accomplished politician and community leader. He began his career in politics as an alderman for the City of Ottawa, representing Wellington Ward from 1970 to 1972. Following this, he represented Ottawa Centre as a Member of Provincial Parliament from 1971 to 1984, including as leader of the Ontario NDP from 1978 to 1982. He then represented the riding at the federal level as a Member of Parliament from 1984 to 1988.

After leaving Parliament, Michael was appointed to the Board of Ontario Hydro in the early 1990s. He later served on the Lanark Highlands Township Council from 2003 to 2006, working on environmental protection including efforts to safeguard the Tay River watershed, and running Ginger Group Consultants to support labour organizations and progressive causes.

Michael Cassidy’s memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, February 28.