Batters attacked online on anniversary of husband’s death

On the 11th anniversary of Dave Batters’ death, his widow is facing attacks online.

The Regina MP took his own life on June 29, 2009.

On Facebook this week, former NDP employee and federal candidate Brian Sklar told Denise Batters she was only a senator because of her husband’s suicide.

The provincial NDP’s new interim leader Nicole Saurer has distanced herself from Sklar’s comments, agreeing with Batters that the comments are “vitriolic.”

“There’s no place for that type of language or discourse in political discussion,” Saurer told reporters at the legislature Thursday. “Let’s talk about ideas and debate on policy. There’s no room and it is not appropriate for any sort of personal attack.”

She insisted Sklar no longer works for the NDP, although he was seen around the legislature as recently as budget day.

“He does not speak for the party,” Saurer said. “He will continue to not speak for the party, the comments that he made on social media are entirely inappropriate.”

She maintained Sklar had apologized for the remarks and that had been accepted by Batters. She said she will see the senator in person over Canada Day weekend and intends to speak to her in person about the comments.

Since her husband’s death, Batters has become an advocate for mental health.