MP Maurice Vellacott won't run in next election

Maurice Vellacott, one of Saskatchewan's longest serving members of Parliament, says he will not run in the next federal election.

The Saskatoon-Wanuskewin MP, a Conservative, was first elected to the House of Commons in 1997.

Currently in his sixth term, Vellacott said Thursday he is stepping aside to spend more time with his family.

"Among other reasons for not seeking re-election in 2015, I want to give more attention to a dear 20-year-old son who struggles with debilitating mental health challenges," Vellacott said in a news release.

"Whether people voted for me or not, it is my continuing privilege to assist them on federal needs and issues until October 2015," he said.

Vellacott's popularity in Saskatoon-Wanuskewin grew at every election since 2004.  In the 2011 federal election, Vellacott received more than 58 per cent of the vote.

Vellacott has, at times, attracted attention for his strongly held views on abortion.

In October, 2012, two convicted criminals, both anti-abortion activists, were awarded Queen's Diamond Jubilee medals after being nominated by Vellacott.