🔥 Trending Richard Martel Appointed to Senate

Richard Martel is a Canadian politician and former ice hockey coach who has recently been appointed to the Senate of Canada. This appointment marks a significant transition in his political career ³⁴⁵.

Early Life and Career

Born and raised in Chicoutimi, Quebec, Martel initially pursued a career in education ¹. However, he is perhaps best known for his extensive background in ice hockey.

Hockey Career

Martel had a long and distinguished career as an ice hockey coach, primarily in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) ¹².

• Coaching Tenure: He coached in the QMJHL from 1990 to 2011, notably with the Chicoutimi Saguenéens ¹⁶.
• Accolades: During his coaching career, he won two QMJHL coach of the year awards ². He also coached in the French Ligue Magnus ².

Political Career

Martel transitioned from sports to politics, representing the electoral district of Chicoutimi—Le Fjord in the House of Commons ²⁷. He was a Conservative Member of Parliament ³⁴.

Recent Senate Appointment

On July 7, 2026, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Martel's appointment to the Senate of Canada ³⁴⁵.

• Departure from Caucus: Following his appointment, Martel will be leaving the Conservative caucus and will sit as an independent Senator ³⁸.
• Significance: This appointment is part of a larger set of four new Senate nominations made by Prime Minister Carney ⁴⁵.