Prince George, BC – The first round of voting at the federal NDP’s Leadership Convention in Toronto has just closed and results will be released in one hour’s time.

The seven candidates vying for the opportunity to become the leader of Canada’s Official Opposition made their final pitches to party faithful, during 20 minute presentations last night.  Niki Ashton, Nathan Cullen, Paul Dewar, Thomas Mulcair, Peggy Nash, Martin Singh, and Brian Topp were also on-hand for a tribute to former leader, Jack Layton, who died of cancer last August.

Layton had been at the helm of the party since 2003 and, in last May’s federal election, led the New Democrats to a historic breakthrough, capturing 102 seats across the country.  The NDP’s previous ‘best’ had been the 43 seats garnered in 1988.

The second round of voting, should it be necessary, is scheduled to begin at 8am.  To watch live coverage from the convention floor, click here.