One of the Tri-Cities' MLAs won't be running for re-election in May.
On Monday, Diane Thorne, the NDP MLA for Coquitlam-Maillardville, announced she plans to retire from the elected post she's held since 2005. Currently, she serves as the deputy opposition critic for education.
Thorne, who was a Coquitlam city councillor from 1996 to 2005, told The Tri-City News she made her mind up last weekend following a meeting with her riding association executive.
"I think that 17 years is enough for anybody in public service," the popular politician said, "and I want to finish when I'm still enjoying the job and I'm still on top of the game. I think it's time. It's not supposed to be a huge 40-year career."
She added, "It was so tough to make this decision.... but I'd like to do the things that I've not been able to do for the past 20 years like extended travel."
Thorne, a Coquitlam resident, cited a number of achievements while in provincial office such as getting the home inspection bill in place, changes in the Residential Tenancy Act and tabling a 14,000-signature petition to keep Riverview Hospital as a mental-health institution.
In a statement issued Monday, NDP leader Adrian Dix said Thorne has been a "valuable part of our caucus. A passionate advocate for social services and for improving people's lives in tangible ways, Diane has been effective in making the case that these investments enrich the life and health of the entire community."
More to come...
