Definition
George Doucett (1889 – 1971) was a Canadian politician who served as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario and later as a Member of Parliament in the House of Commons of Canada, representing the Progressive Conservative Party.
Overview
Born in 1889 in Saint‑André, Ontario, Doucett was raised in a farming family and pursued a career as a farmer and local businessman before entering politics. He first attained elected office in the 1937 Ontario provincial election, winning the riding of Glengarry as a Progressive Conservative MLA. Doucett was re‑elected in the 1943 and 1945 provincial elections, serving on several parliamentary committees and advocating for rural infrastructure, agricultural development, and veterans’ affairs.
In the 1949 federal election, Doucett transitioned to federal politics, winning the newly created riding of Glengarry—Prescott in the House of Commons. He was re‑elected in 1953 and served until his defeat in the 1957 federal election. During his tenure in Ottawa, Doucett was a backbench supporter of Prime Minister John Diefenbaker’s government and contributed to debates on agricultural policy, transportation funding for Eastern Ontario, and post‑war economic adjustment.
After leaving federal politics, Doucett retired to his farm, remained active in local community organizations, and died in 1971 at the age of 82.
Etymology/Origin
The surname Doucett is of French origin, derived from the Old French word doucet meaning “sweet” or “gentle.” The name is common among French‑Canadian families, reflecting the historic French settlement in the Ottawa‑River valley and Eastern Ontario.
Characteristics
- Political affiliation: Progressive Conservative Party (both provincial and federal branches).
- Offices held:
- Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Glengarry, Ontario (1937–1948).
- Member of Parliament (MP) for Glengarry—Prescott (1949–1957).
- Policy focus: Rural infrastructure (roads, bridges), agricultural support programs, veterans’ benefits, and regional economic development.
- Professional background: Farmer, local merchant, and community leader prior to political career.
Related Topics
- Progressive Conservative Party of Canada
- Legislative Assembly of Ontario
- House of Commons of Canada
- Glengarry—Prescott (federal electoral district)
- Rural politics in mid‑20th‑century Canada
- John Diefenbaker government (1957–1963)