Thomas Mulcair leaving politics

Former Quebec environment minister Thomas Mulcair will not run for the Quebec Liberals in the upcoming election.

The MNA for the Laval riding of Chomedey announced his departure from politics in a short press release Tuesday.

Mulcair served in Quebec's national assembly for 13 years, and gained a reputation for his aggressive style in question period.

He was shuffled out of cabinet in 2006 after he raised concerns about the privatization of Mont Orford, a provincial park in the Eastern Townships.

Quebec premier Jean Charest reportedly offered Mulcair a less prominent portfolio as minister of government services, which he turned down.

Mulcair was first elected in Chomedey in 1994, and has held several positions at the national assembly, including justice critic and deputy house leader.

Mulcair is in Europe and wasn't available for comment.