(HALIFAX, NS) – The Nova Scotia Liberal Party announced today, July 28, acclaimed candidates in the ridings of Cumberland South and Dartmouth South, completing the party’s roster of 55 diverse candidates across the province. 

Rolland “Rollie” Lawless will represent the Liberal Party in Cumberland South and Lesley MacKay is the candidate in Dartmouth South.

Rollie was born and raised in Cumberland County. He is a tireless advocate for access to health care for our veterans. As a veteran who has served at home and abroad, Rollie understands the complex medical needs of those who have served, and will be a strong voice for veterans as MLA for Cumberland South. 

“I’m proud to be a part of Team Rankin because his strong leadership got us through the pandemic, and we need that leadership to get us through the economic recovery,” said Rollie. “I’d like to thank my family, friends and veteran support network who have all helped support my candidacy for MLA for Cumberland South.”

Lesley is a graduate of NSCC Ivany Campus and has a background in public relations. She has worked with the Liberal Caucus since 2017 and has been instrumental in helping support our elected officials in making a difference in communities across the province. 

“I’m thrilled to be joining Team Rankin because we have a vision that protects the environment, invests in health care and $10 per day child care – all while supporting our economic rebound from the pandemic,” said Lesley. “As MLA, I’ll be a strong voice for the issues that matter most in Dartmouth South.”

The Nova Scotia Liberal Party is committed to building a diverse team of candidates that reflects the communities across our province. That is why we are proud to have 23 women candidates who have stepped forward to represent the Liberal Party – double the amount of female candidates we had in 2017. 

Five of our candidates are of African descent. We will have the first Muslim MLA and the first Mi’kmaw MLA in our province’s history. Additionally, we are inspired by our two candidates who identify as members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Our Party is committed to continuing our important work to foster diversity and inclusion in Nova Scotia.

“I am proud to have both Rollie and Lesley join our team of candidates,” said Liberal Leader, Iain Rankin. “This completes our roster of 55 candidates across the province, nearly 40 per cent of whom are women, with several candidates from diverse backgrounds. Both Rollie and Lesley will make great advocates for their communities when elected MLA.”