Lisa Roberts not seeking re-election; plans to seek federal NDP nomination in Halifax

The MLA for Halifax Needham, Lisa Roberts, announced Monday that she will seek the federal NDP nomination for Halifax.

“I have loved representing the constituents of Halifax Needham since August 2016. It’s also been a great privilege to sit in Province House as a member of the NDP caucus,” said Roberts.

During her time as an MLA, Roberts successfully pushed for an eviction ban during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, and for rent controls.

She has served in a number of critic roles, including fisheries and aquaculture, lands and forestry and immigration, as well as on the public accounts committee.

“Lisa has been an outstanding advocate for affordable housing, and I know she will continue to do so in all her future work,” said NDP Leader Gary Burrill.

“Liberal governments both in Halifax and in Ottawa are leaving people in our communities behind. Lisa is a brave and diligent advocate for people who are struggling and she will continue to work hard to make sure people get the things they need.”

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Roberts was first elected in a byelection in 2016 and was re-elected in 2017.

“While I don’t control the timing of either the provincial or federal election, I intend to continue working as the MLA for Halifax Needham for as long as possible, hopefully until the provincial writ drops,” said Roberts.

A date has not yet been set for the federal nomination.