Move to leave public life partly spurred by unexpected death of former finance minister Jim Flaherty, a source close to the MP says.

Baird offered only a general explanation for the unexpected resignation, news of which reportedly caught even Harper off guard on Monday night.

“The time has come to start a new chapter in my life,” Baird said in an emotional speech to fellow MPs. Tearing up, he added, “I will miss this place very much.”

The sudden decision sparked wide speculation about Baird’s motivation and next steps. He is expected to take a job in the private sector that will allow him to capitalize on his extensive contacts and experience as a senior minister in Ottawa and, previously, in the governments of Mike Harris and Ernie Eves at Queen’s Park. Baird has contacted federal ethics watchdog Mary Dawson to discuss his upcoming job, said a source close to Baird.

The source said the longtime politician’s thinking about his future intensified after former finance minister Jim Flaherty’s unexpected death last spring.

FINANCE MINISTER’S OF CANADA UNSUSPECTED DEATH? I SMELL A DIRTY RAT.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QdRGzoZezaY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-yitWVuxMY

ALL THE WORLD IS A STAGE OF PUPPETS, PUPPET MASTERS AND DECEIT

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHtBMjA8koI