Corner Brook bids farewell to Williams

Newfoundland and Labrador premier Danny Williams thanked hundreds of well-wishers in Corner Brook Monday evening for launching his political career.

Williams, who represented Humber West in the house of assembly, will be stepping down as premier on Friday.

As he made his way through throngs at the Pepsi Centre's conference rooms, Williams tried to cheer up some long faces.

"Lighten up, everybody. This is hard stuff," Williams said. "[I] don't want any tears tonight."

Williams, though a die-hard townie from St. John's, represented the Corner Brook area throughout his political career. He thanked constituents for sticking with him since his debut in a 2001 byelection, when he won Humber West after former Liberal cabinet minister Paul Dicks resigned.

Williams's victory presaged a turn of fortunes for the Progressive Conservatives, and was the first of a series of byelection wins leading up to the 2003 election.

"You launched my career as the leader of the party, because if I had lost that particular battle, then I was in big trouble," Williams said.

"But I placed my confidence in your hands and you had faith in me and you have not let me down since."

Williams heard some emotional responses from those who came to see him.

"In a way, [it's] a sad day from Newfoundland," said Don Dicesare.

"He's been a great inspiration for young people in Newfoundland, especially for me," said Clarence Campbell.

Minnie Vallis said she hoped that Williams — who has said he intends to concentrate on his business interests — does not leave public life altogether.

"It'll be just 'so long.' I'm sure well see you again," she said.

'Feeling worse by the day'

Meanwhile, Williams showed an emotional side as he disclosed that saying goodbye to the premier's job is more difficult than he might have thought.

"I should be at a stage now, three days or four days later, where I [start to] feel really happy about the fact that this burden, this obligation, this liability is off my shoulder," Williams said.

"Nothing is further from the truth. I'm feeling worse by the day."

Some in the crowd called out that Williams should stay.

Deputy Premier Kathy Dunderdale will be sworn in as Newfoundland and Labrador's 10th premier on Friday.

A group formed on Facebook is asking Newfoundland and Labrador residents to wear blue — the colour of the Progressive Conservatives — on Friday to honour Williams. More than 1,200 people had signed up by early Tuesday.