Charlie Birt

Charles T. Birt (born May 27, 1942[1] in Winnipeg, Manitoba) is a politician in Manitoba, Canada. He was a member of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba from 1984 to 1988, representing the riding of Fort Garry for the Progressive Conservative Party.[1]

Birt grew up in East Kildonan, was educated at Miles MacDonell Collegiate and at the University of Manitoba, and worked as a lawyer before entering political life. From 1980 to 1984, he was a member of the Winnipeg City Council.[2] He also was a member of the Children's Aid Board of Winnipeg from 1980 to 1983, and served as a trustee for Victoria Hospital from 1980 to 1984.

He was first elected to the Manitoba legislature in a by-election held on October 2, 1984,[3] following the resignation of Bud Sherman in Fort Garry. He was elected by more than 1,500 votes over his nearest opponent, Liberal leader Sharon Carstairs; Progressive Party leader Sidney Green placed fourth. Birt was re-elected over Nora Losey of the governing New Democratic Party in the 1986 provincial election.[3]

Birt was defeated by Liberal candidate Laurie Evans in the 1988 election,[3] ironically as the Progressive Conservatives formed a minority government. He has not sought a return to provincial politics since this time.

Birt remained active in the Winnipeg community since his defeat. Along with former Mayor Bill Norrie, he has recently been involved in a project to restore the Elmwood Cemetery.