Former finance minister finally claims Liberal leadership prize after long struggle to the top Paul Martin walks through the crowds to the podium after formally being declared the new Liberal Party leader. CREDIT: Global National TORONTO - Paul Martin completed a 13-year journey and fulfilled the dream his father never achieved by claiming the leadership of the Liberal party Friday night and promised to harness "the national will towards great accomplishment." Martin won the vote 3,242 to 211, a 94 per cent victory against rival Sheila Copps. "We must pursue a new politics of achievement. We must ensure a place...