West Nova MP Colin Fraser has announced he will not run in the next federal election.
Fraser, who ran for the Liberals and was elected in 2015, issued a statement Friday, Sept. 28, saying deciding not to reoffer was difficult but that he wanted to return to his legal career and serve the community in other ways.
The following is Fraser’s statement:
“Serving as the member of Parliament for West Nova is the greatest honour of my life. Over the course of the summer and after much thought, however, I have decided not to re-offer for the election in October 2019. I will continue working hard every single day on behalf of the people of West Nova right up until the next election.
“This has been a difficult decision, but I have made it with the backing of family and friends. I fully support our prime minister, our team and the Liberal Party of Canada. I have truly enjoyed my public role since declaring in August 2014 my intention to be a candidate. However, my personal decision is about wanting to return to my legal career and continuing to serve our community in other ways.
“I am extremely thankful to the citizens of West Nova for placing their trust in me and I am proud that our government is making a positive difference in the lives of our people.
“The Canada Child Benefit is lifting many children out of poverty and benefiting 12,390 kids throughout West Nova. By increasing the Guaranteed Income Supplement for single seniors and investing in home-care and affordable housing, the well-being of seniors is improving. We have significantly increased support for our veterans, backed up by an additional $10 billion to re-open offices, enhance benefits, improve mental health supports and better recognize their service to our country. Diversifying our global trade to new markets with CETA and the CPTPP, while standing up for Canada on NAFTA, are critical to West Nova’s seafood and agricultural exports. I am also proud of the many local investments in infrastructure that grow our economy and improve the quality of life in our communities.
“I will be forever grateful to those who support me and volunteer their time to the Liberal Party in West Nova. Our democracy depends on active and engaged people getting involved in the political process. I will remain dedicated to the Liberal Party both federally and provincially and I am optimistic that another strong Liberal candidate will win the confidence of the people of West Nova in the next federal election.”
