Raymond Bonin

Raymond C. "Ray" Bonin, born on November 20, 1942, is a distinguished former Canadian politician and educator. He served as a Liberal member of the House of Commons, representing the Nickel Belt riding from nineteen ninety-three until two thousand eight. His political career was marked by a commitment to his constituents and a dedication to public service.

Before embarking on his political journey, Bonin was a respected teacher at Cambrian College in Sudbury, where he influenced many students. His leadership skills were evident early on when he served as the chairman of the French Catholic school board from nineteen seventy-six to nineteen eighty-five. Additionally, he held the position of city councillor from nineteen eighty-eight to nineteen ninety-one, further solidifying his role in local governance.

In November two thousand six, Bonin made the significant decision to announce that he would not seek reelection in the upcoming two thousand eight federal election. This announcement paved the way for former Greater Sudbury city councillor Louise Portelance to become the new Liberal candidate for Nickel Belt. However, she faced defeat on election day against Claude Gravelle of the New Democratic Party.