Richard Ireland was born and raised in Jasper. After pursuing a law degree and establishing a career elsewhere, he returned to Jasper with his family in the late 1980s.
He was first elected to the Jasper Town Committee in 1989, where he played a key role in the establishment and consolidation of local government, supporting the community’s goal of local self-determination.
Mayor Ireland was elected Jasper’s first Mayor in 2001 and has served continuously since, through multiple re-elections and acclamations, including his current term beginning in 2021.
In 2024, the Jasper Wildfire Complex challenged the community like never before. Mayor Ireland’s leadership during and after the wildfire, marked by calm communication, compassion, and a steady focus on safety, helped guide residents through the evacuation, recovery, and ongoing rebuild.
He continues to collaborate closely with provincial and federal partners to support the community as it rebuilds and recovers, navigating the complex, long-term process with patience and determination.
Richard is married to Bonnie, and together they have two sons and two granddaughters.
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