OTTAWA– Liberal Leader Bob Rae made the following statement today on the death of Rabbi Gunther Plaut:

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Rabbi Gunther Plaut last night in Toronto.

Gunther Plaut was a friend to many, and a teacher and leader of great distinction. As the senior rabbi at the Holy Blossom Temple in Toronto for many years, he was a source of inspiration and guidance to the Jewish community and the wider Canadian community. A brilliant scholar, he was an active advisor to provincial and federal governments on human rights, interfaith understanding, and social justice and international affairs.

On a personal level, Arlene and I have lost a friend. We shall remember Gunther and his late wife Elizabeth with warmth and affection. They led the Temple congregation with distinction and dignity.”