Member of Parliament Hunter Tootoo has resigned from his post as minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard.
He is also leaving the Liberal caucus.
Tootoo released a statement Tuesday saying he made the decision “in order to not distract from the important work” of his colleagues.
“I have decided to seek treatment for addiction issues and ask for privacy at this time.”
Tootoo was on Parliament Hill as recently as Monday and attended the Liberal convention in Winnipeg over the weekend.
Prime Minister’s Justin Trudeau’s office also issued a statement Tuesday regarding Tootoo’s sudden departure.
Trudeau announced Tootoo’s replacement on the file.
“The Honorable Dominic LeBlanc will be assuming the the role of Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard later this evening, in addition to being Government House Leader.”
MP for Nunavut, Tootoo was elected to federal office in last fall’s election. He previously served for 14 years in the Nunavut Legislative Assembly.