Kirsty Duncan, a former Liberal cabinet minister and beloved public figure, has sadly passed away at the age of 59 after a courageous battle with cancer. Duncan, who represented the riding of Etobicoke North as a Member of Parliament from 2008 to 2025, was known for her unwavering dedication to serving her community and advocating for important causes.
Throughout her career, Duncan made significant contributions, serving in various roles within the Canadian government, including as the science minister and later as the minister of sport and persons with disabilities, and deputy House leader under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s administration. She was not only a respected politician but also a former scientist and athlete, embodying a spirit of perseverance and excellence in all her endeavors.
Prime Minister Trudeau expressed his heartfelt condolences, describing Duncan as a curious, generous individual committed to helping others. He praised her values of knowledge, compassion, and service that she brought to every aspect of her work. Despite battling cancer, Duncan remained dedicated to her advocacy efforts, calling for reforms in the Canadian sport system to address allegations of abuse.
Numerous political figures and community members mourned the loss of Duncan, emphasizing her impact as a dedicated public servant and advocate. Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Toronto city councillor Josh Matlow both expressed their deep sadness at her passing, highlighting Duncan’s unwavering commitment to her constituents and the causes she championed.
In a poignant social media post before her surgery in 2023, Duncan likened her cancer journey to climbing a mountain, emphasizing the challenges she faced with resilience and determination. Her inspiring attitude and unwavering spirit left a lasting impression on all those who knew her.