Our Town Council is comprised of dedicated individuals with shared goals. They are committed to advocating for the community during their term. Their drive and dedication aim to enhance the quality of life in our town, ensuring continuous progress and community well-being.

Gertie Canning has been a dedicated resident of Labrador in the Town of Wabush for the past 17 years. Her decision to return to Wabush after several years residing in Ontario was driven by her desire to foster a nurturing environment for her children, emphasizing the importance of family, community engagement, and Labrador’s core values. As a mother of three and grandmother to three grandchildren, all raised within the local community, Gertie exemplifies a strong commitment to family and community continuity.

Her extensive involvement in municipal service underscores her dedication to local governance and community development. Gertie has served three terms as a Town Councillor, during which she contributed to various initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, public safety, and community well-being. Her role involved active participation in budget planning, policy formulation, and community outreach programs, ensuring that residents’ voices are heard and their needs addressed effectively.

As Mayor, Gertie Canning aims to leverage her experience to further enhance Wabush’s municipal services. Her leadership philosophy centers on transparent governance, sustainable development, and fostering economic growth. She advocates for strategic investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare to improve residents’ quality of life.

Her commitment extends beyond administrative duties; she actively collaborates with regional stakeholders, provincial agencies, and community organizations to promote inclusive growth and social cohesion. Gertie believes that strong municipal leadership is vital for building a resilient community that respects its heritage while embracing future opportunities.

In her personal time, Gertie enjoys golfing, walking, and reading, which help her maintain a balanced perspective on her professional responsibilities. Her deep connection to Labrador and her unwavering dedication to public service position her as a capable leader committed to the ongoing development and prosperity of Wabush.

Vanessa Temple was born and raised in Labrador West and is honored to have been elected by the residents of Wabush to represent them this term. She and her husband have owned and operated a business in the Wabush Industrial Park for the past 22 years, as well as a business in Labrador City for the last three years.

Vanessa’s deep roots in the community run generations strong. Her parents, three children, and four grandchildren all live in the area, giving her firsthand knowledge of both the many benefits of living in a small, remote community and the challenges that come with it. She is committed to doing what is right for all residents, of all ages, whether they are long-time pioneers or newcomers to the area.

With experience in both the mining sector and the small business community, Vanessa understands the unique dynamics Wabush faces on a daily basis. She believes that together, the community can grow stronger and more resilient through the ups and downs of a mining-based economy, while respecting those who built the foundation of Wabush and supporting those who will shape its future.

Vanessa looks forward to working alongside her team and the residents of Wabush to help build a strong, inclusive, and sustainable community.

Debbie Hawes lives in the Town of Wabush and was recently elected to council.

She has been working at the College of the North Atlantic for over thirty years and is currently  instructing in the Executive Office Management program.  During her time with the the College  Debbie has served on numerous committees including Occupational Health and Safety, Scholarship Committee, and Educational Development Leave.

Debbie is a strong advocate for workers’ rights, having served on the provincial board of NAPE as both the Labrador Region Board Member and Faculty Component Board Member.

She has served on the Labrador West Health Centre Hospital Auxiliary for the past three years, as president for the past year.  Debbie is a strong believer that it is important to give back to your community, which has led her to municipal service.

Rita Pynn has been a proud resident of Wabush for over 52 years. She began her career with Wabush Mines on August 15, 1973, in the Human Resources Department for 41 years before retiring on January 1, 2015.

Following her retirement, Rita continued her dedication to community service by working at the Doctors Clinic at the Labrador West Health Centre for seven years. In January 2015, she also sought election to Wabush Town Council and was successful. She has completed one four-year term and is currently serving her second term on council.

Rita is presently employed with Cain’s Quest. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, crocheting, knitting, and sewing.

Lora moved to Wabush with her family when she was just two years old, when her father began working as the mechanic for the Town of Wabush. This community has shaped her life ever since. She grew up here, works here, and enjoys spending time with her family and friends in the place she proudly calls home.
Lora’s roots in Wabush run deep, and she values the strong sense of belonging that this northern community provides. She finds joy in the natural beauty that surrounds the region, from the northern lights to the peaceful landscapes that make the area so unique. Whether she is working on her property or simply shovelling snow, Lora appreciates being outdoors and taking part in the everyday rhythms of life in the North.
Living in Wabush is something she takes great pride in. It reflects who she is and the values that have shaped her. Wabush is more than just where she lives — it’s where she feels connected, grounded, and truly at home.

Kelley Pafford expresses her enthusiasm for serving Wabush residents on the council this term. As a lifelong resident, she emphasizes her community involvement and her role in Faith’s Haven, a not-for-profit animal rescue. Kelley highlights her commitment to advocating for local animals and residents, aiming to improve community welfare through her tenure. Her dedication reflects her deep roots and active participation in Wabush’s well-being and development.