APTN National News
OTTAWA — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says Hunter Tootoo is stepping down as minister of Fisheries and Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, and also leaving the Liberal caucus.
“Mr. Tootoo will be taking time to seek treatment for addiction issues,” said Trudeau in a statement.
In October, Tootoo defeated incumbent Conservative Leona Aglukkaq to become the Member of Parliament for Nunavut.
Trudeau said Dominic Leblanc will be assuming the role of minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, in addition to being Government House Leader.
Tootoo said in a statement he resigned in order not to be a distraction.
“I have decided to seek treatment for addiction issues and ask for privacy at this time,” he said.
Hard decision. Best of luck.