PIERREFONDS – Longtime Liberal MNA Yolande James (Nelligan) formally announced she was retiring Tuesday, just before many experts are expecting a provincial election call.
“We have had 10 wonderful years of being able to represent people in the West Island,” James said in her riding office. Ten months ago, however, James said her life changed when she gave birth to a son. Given that she had to spend at least three days a week in Quebec City, she decided to step down in order to spend more time with her family.
“The contribution of Ms. James in Quebec politics and the Quebec Liberal Party is important,” wrote party leader Philippe Couillard in a prepared release. “She has without a doubt helped to strengthen Quebec and I wish her success in her future endeavors.”
James is a 10-year veteran Liberal MNA, having won four elections. She is also the first black cabinet minister in Quebec. While few doubt that her seat will be held by another grit in the future, even James’ former opponents say they will miss her.
Even as she was stepping down, James continued to make the rounds Tuesday to oppose the proposed Quebec Charter of Values, which would require all civil servants to doff ostentatious religious symbols. Speaking with students at Greendale Elementary School, James said she opposed the charter, and fielded questions from students at the school.
“My question is: why was the Charter of Values made?” said one student, who introduced himself as Eric.
James’ departure means the departure of an important minority voice in the National Assembly. Although her successor is still to be determined, she said that her advice to that person would be:
“Don’t live in fear.”
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