REGINA – Another MLA for the Saskatchewan Party has announced he will not be running for office in the next provincial election.
Rob Norris, who represents Saskatoon Greystone, made the announcement Wednesday afternoon in Regina.
“When I was first elected in 2007, I said I did not consider provincial politics to be a long-term career for me,” said Norris in a release.
“As I turn my attention to future career options, it is time to pass the baton to another candidate – someone who will bring energy and fresh ideas into the upcoming provincial race.”
Norris beat out NDP challenger Andrew Mason by 300 votes in 2007. The seat had previously been held by the NDP’s Peter Prebble, who Norris beat by 1,700 votes in 2011.
“Like other MLAs, I am humbled to serve in Saskatchewan’s Legislative Assembly and grateful for the support I have received from the voters,” said Norris
“Getting to know, learning from and working to serve the industrious and generous families of Saskatoon Greystone has been an extraordinary honour.”
Norris was appointed Minister of Advanced Education, Employment and Labour in 2007. A 2010 cabinet shuffle saw the labour portfolio moved to Don Morgan, with Norris taking over the immigration file in addition to advanced education and employment.
Norris was dropped from cabinet on May 25, 2012 but reappointed Minister of Advanced Education in a minor cabinet shuffle last September.
Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall thanked Norris for his service to the province.
“Rob managed some important initiatives, including introducing Saskatchewan’s first essential services law,” Wall said in a statement.
“He also led the development of Saskatchewan’s immigration strategy which continues to contribute significantly to our record population growth.”
Norris’ announcement comes after both Ken Krawtez and June Draude, two founding members of the Sask Party, announced they would not be seeking re-election in the next provincial election, expected in 2016.
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