NDP Designates Karl Bélanger as National Director

Karl Bélanger was designated National Director of the New Democratic Party (NDP) of Canada, Saturday.

A native of Quebec City, Karl Bélanger has a degree in arts and media technology as well as a BA in political science from Laval University. He joined the ranks of the NDP when he was 18 years old, becoming a candidate for the first time in the 1993 federal election. Over the years, he has held several positions within the party organization.

“Karl has a thorough knowledge of the party and its supporters, combined with a wealth of parliamentary experience. He grew up in the New Democrat family and is respected by adversaries and media alike. He is the natural choice to help the party face the challenges of the coming months,” stated NDP President Rebecca Blaikie.

A 19 year veteran on Parliament Hill, Karl Bélanger held various positions in the offices of Alexa McDonough, Jack Layton and Nycole Turmel, before becoming Principal Secretary to Tom Mulcair in March 2012.

Bélanger will begin his new position on Monday, January 25, under an interim mandate that will end on June 24th, 2016. His appointment will have to be confirmed by the NDP Federal Council in the coming days.

Bélanger succeeds Anne McGrath, who left the position at the end of 2015 to become deputy Chief of Staff to the premier of Alberta.