Elgin-Middlesex-London MPP Jeff Yurek to step down, not running for re-election
CBC
Southwestern Ontario MPP Jeff Yurek is stepping down from his position in February, and will not run for re-election in the June 2022 provincial election, the Progressive Conservative politician announced on Friday.
"I believe it time for the voters of Elgin-Middlesex-London to select a new voice to represent their interests at Queen's Park," Yurek wrote in a statement.
"When I entered politics over ten years ago, I made three promises to myself: represent the people of Elgin-Middlesex-London to my fullest ability, remain authentic and true to my values and beliefs, and recognize when it is the right time to step down."
Yurek was previously the province's environment minister and transport minister under Premier Doug Ford.
"Together with a strong team, we accomplished much both locally and provincially over the past 10 years. In my Ministerial roles we launched the Forestry Strategy, announced the subway expansions in Toronto, provided funding for London's BRT, approved the building of concrete barriers on highway 401, initiated a provincial hydrogen strategy, and provided record funding for wetlands while also overhauling and improving the province's recycling program.
"At the cabinet table I stood strong, being a persuasive voice for rural and southwestern Ontario," Yurek wrote.
Locally, he said he is proud of getting funding for a new lab and MRI facility at the St. Thomas-Elgin General Hospital, a new hospice in Elgin County, and a new homeless shelter for St. Thomas.
He is most proud of his work in passing Ryan's Law, which allows kids with asthma to carry inhalers with them in class.
"My time in public life has been productive and there are many people to whom I extend my sincere thanks and gratitude. Without your encouragement and counsel the results may not have been as worthwhile for our community and province," he said.
He also thanked his wife, daughter, and extended family for their support.
"To the constituents of Elgin-Middlesex-London, you provided me with a rare opportunity to fulfil an idealistic dream of making our community a better place and I am honoured and grateful to have served you. Your unwavering confidence and trust is appreciated and will be remembered," Yurek wrote.
Yurek is a pharmacist who grew up in St. Thomas. Yurek Pharmacy Ltd. was started by his father in 1963.
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