The announcement came quietly on a Monday morning, hardly the dramatic exit one might expect from Newfoundland and Labrador’s second-most powerful political figure. Deputy Premier and Finance Minister Siobhan Coady confirmed she won’t seek re-election in 2025, closing a chapter on one of the province’s most influential political careers of the past decade.
“After deep reflection with family and friends, I’ve decided the next election will mark the end of my time in provincial politics,” Coady told reporters gathered at Confederation Building in St. John’s. “There comes a time to pass the torch, and I believe that time is approaching.”
The timing caught many political watchers off guard. With provincial coffers showing modest improvement and Premier Andrew Furey’s leadership seemingly secure, Coady’s departure removes a steady hand from a government still navigating post-pandemic economic recovery.
Political scientist Alex Marland of Memorial University suggests the announcement reflects careful strategic timing. “Cabinet ministers often telegraph these intentions well before an election to allow for succession planning. It gives the party time to recruit strong candidates and prevents a perception of jumping ship.”
For residents of St. John’s West, the riding Coady has represented since 2015, the news sparked mixed reactions. At the Georgetown Bakery on Water Street, conversations over morning coffee reflected both appreciation and uncertainty.
“She helped us through some rough patches,” noted longtime resident Margaret Parsons. “Remember when oil prices crashed and then COVID hit? She kept a steady hand on our finances during impossible times.”
The political implications extend beyond her riding. As Finance Minister since 2020, Coady guided provincial budgets through the economic turbulence of the pandemic. Her measured approach to fiscal policy earned grudging respect even from opposition benches.
PC finance critic Tony Wakeham acknowledged her contributions while questioning the timing. “Minister Coady served with distinction, but her departure raises serious questions about the Liberal government’s long-term economic vision. Are there challenges coming that we haven’t been told about?”
The vacancy creates both opportunity and challenge for Premier Furey. Political observers note Coady’s portfolio combination – finance and deputy premier – represented significant institutional knowledge and political weight within cabinet.
“This isn’t just any minister stepping aside,” noted Janet Whalen, former provincial policy advisor. “Coady brought business credentials and political savvy that balanced Furey’s medical background. That partnership stabilized government through some incredibly difficult years.”
Indeed, Coady’s resume distinguished her from many colleagues. Before returning to politics, she served as president of the Canadian Centre for Energy Information and built a successful private sector career including leadership roles with Newfoundland Power. That business background informed her pragmatic approach to provincial finances.
The 2025 election now presents fresh challenges for Liberals hoping to secure another mandate. Recent polling from Corporate Research Associates showed the governing party with a modest lead over the Progressive Conservatives, but leadership transitions always create vulnerability.
For her part, Coady emphasized continuity in her remaining months. “I’m fully committed to delivering our next budget and supporting our economic growth strategy before the election,” she stated. “This announcement simply provides clarity for everyone involved.”
Sources close to the minister suggest her decision reflects personal timing rather than political calculation. At 63, Coady has spent over a decade in combined federal and provincial politics, with additional years in municipal governance.
The path forward remains uncertain for both Coady and her constituency. Political insiders mention several potential Liberal candidates already expressing interest in the nomination, though none have made formal announcements.
As for the deputy premier herself, she declined to specify post-political plans. “I’ve always believed in contributing to Newfoundland and Labrador’s success, whether in public office or private life. That commitment won’t change.”
For a province still working through economic diversification and demographic challenges, Coady’s steady fiscal management will leave a significant gap to fill. How Premier Furey restructures cabinet in response may signal his government’s priorities heading into an election year.
Meanwhile, in St. John’s West, constituents are beginning to contemplate change. As local business owner James Murphy put it, “Politicians come and go, but Coady was different – she actually returned my calls. That matters more than party colors around here.”
The political reshuffling begins now, with fifteen months remaining before voters have their say.
