November 08, 2005
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Paul Martin has expressed his condolences on the passing of Beland Hugh Honderich, former publisher of The Toronto Star.

“During his long and distinguished career, Beland Honderich established himself as a determined visionary in the rough-and-tumble world of journalism. He inherited a proud tradition of journalistic integrity at The Toronto Star and built the newspaper into one of Canada's leading defenders of the interests of everyday Canadians.

His uncompromising commitment to excellence attracted many highly talented writers who helped transform The Toronto Star into a must-read for the growing urban market it served. Beland Honderich often led his newspaper on crusades to uncover political or social injustice. As a result, he inspired great respect in political, business and social circles.

Beland Honderich transformed The Toronto Star and, in many ways, helped transform the craft of journalism. His passing truly marks the end of an era in the continuing story of the media in Canada."