A high profile MP in the Conservative caucus is not seeking re-election in the fall.
Justice Minister Peter MacKay was joined by Prime Minister Stephen Harper Friday afternoon in Nova Scotia to make the announcement.
The 49-year-old says he wants to spend more time with his family, as he’s expecting a second child in September.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty has well wishes for the long time politician.
The NDP member says he didn’t have a lot of dealings with the Minister, but notes he was a friendly individual who helped him out whenever he had a question.
Rafferty says he appreciates the fact that MacKay wanted to take some time for himself.
On the political side, he says it’s interesting that a number of high profile Conservatives have decided not to run and wonders if they’ve seen the writing on the wall.
