Ottawa: Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan has announced he will not run in the next federal election and will be stepping down from his cabinet position on Friday. O’Regan cited personal reasons for his departure, emphasizing the need to prioritize his family. Although he will continue to serve as an MP until the next election, he informed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of his decision on Canada Day.
O’Regan’s exit comes amid declining public support for the Liberals and speculation about a potential cabinet shuffle. The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that O’Regan’s replacement will be sworn in at Rideau Hall on Friday. O’Regan, a close friend of Trudeau and a key cabinet member since 2017, has held various portfolios including Veterans Affairs, Indigenous Services, Natural Resources, Labour, and Seniors. His departure marks a significant change as the Liberals face growing public demand for government change, with 61% of Canadians favoring a new government according to a recent Abacus Data poll.