Pamela Harrison, a long time New Democrat who held key positions within the party, publicly denounced Darrell Dexter's government on Friday. Below is the letter she sent to the premier's office:

Dear Darrell:

In this, my resignation from the New Democratic Party of Nova Scotia, please allow me to offer both an explanation and my apologies.

I apologize for my naivety and inability to understand the political system. After thousands of hours of volunteer hours given to the provincial NDP, in the belief that their government would be different, I now understand I had unrealistic expectations.

I had the simplistic idea that once a "good party" was elected, that party would understand and exemplify the difference between politics and governance, and that their claim of a government that would be open, transparent and accountable was actually a commitment, instead of simply campaign rhetoric.

I believed that the party's stated vision of "a better deal for today's families" actually included those with mental health concerns, lesser ability in the areas of both physical and mental health, single moms and their children, the homeless and women experiencing violence and abuse in their lives. Wrong again……and how foolish I feel, to have imagined that the hundreds of resolutions passed at provincial council were actually more that an exercise in the creation of "NDP Believers."

Let me be clear. I am not talking about money. I am referring to a deliberate decision to keep those of us who work (both voluntarily and for pay) in the social justice community, from experiencing a different kind of process, a process whereby up front clear communication is the rule, not the exception, and collaboration and negotiation are the norm. You promised this, again and again and again, and you did not deliver.

You formed the government for the first time in NS history. You have a majority of seats, with potentially four years to make significant change. This was your chance to change the politics your constituents see in the Legislature and on TV, to something far more meaningful.

You campaigned on a commitment to make things better for Nova Scotians and for our families, however we define them. In your speech at the Swearing-in Ceremony, Darrell, you told us that:

"…the Seats in the Legislature belong to voters not political parties. Nova Scotians granted us the privilege of governing this province because of who we are and what we do. I am happy to be judged by those standards because we have always had the courage of our convictions. We do not sway to the fashions of the moment or surrender to the expedience of the hour."

You had a chance to govern us with dignity, skill and respect. You have been judged, Darrell. The verdict is profoundly negative and your victims are Nova Scotians.

I am no longer a New Democrat.

Pamela Harrison

Halifax, NS