Ron MacKinley says it's the 'right time' to retire
CBC News | Posted: February 11, 2015 8:08 PM | Last Updated: February 12, 2015
It was a 'hard decision,' says the MLA, who has been in politics for nearly 30 years
Longtime Liberal MLA Ron MacKinley announced Tuesday he was retiring from politics after serving for 29 years.
He has represented District 16 Cornwall-Meadowbank and served as leader of the Opposition. Most recently, he's been Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development. Between 2007 and 2011 he served as Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.
Wednesday he spoke with CBC News about why he decided to retire.
"It's the right time. It's an awful hard decision to do especially when you have the confidence of the people," he said.
MacKinley said the decision came to him during the recent stormy weather.
"It's time for somebody else to walk into my shoes and carry on."
MacKinley said he let Premier Robert Ghiz and leader-designate Wade MacLauchlan know about his decision before announcing it publicly.
The retiring MLA began his political career on Dec. 2, 1985 under former premier Joe Ghiz.
The Prince Edward Island Liberal Association issued a statement Wednesday to thank and recognize MacKinley's 29 years of service to the party, P.E.I. and his constituents.
President Ewan Clark said members respected and honoured MacKinley's commitment, dedication and hard work to the Liberal Party.
In interviews, MacKinley said he was not forced out by the Liberal Party.
Leader designate Wade MacLauchlan confirmed there was no pressure placed on MacKinley to step down.
"Absolutely not, no, none whatsoever. I have a lot of respect for Ronnie MacKinley as an effective politician and as a popular politician. I call him smart, dedicated and popular," MacLauchlan said.
MacLauchlan said he would have been happy to see MacKinley run again, not doubting that Mackinley would have won.
The Liberal Party said there is a lot of interest in the Cornwall-Meadowbank riding but there are no candidates officially declared to be seeking the nomination.