Marie electoral district in the House of Commons of Canada from 1988 to 1993 as a member of the New Democratic Party.
Before entering politics, served as principal at St. Hubert's (Catholic) elementary school from 1984 to 1988.
Following his federal defeat, Butland ran for mayor of the city of Sault Ste.
Marie in a special byelection in 1996, following the controversial resignation of Joe Fratesi.
He was elected, succeeding Fratesi's appointed interim replacement Michael Sanzosti, and served until 2000, when he was defeated by John Rowswell.