Svend Robinson (first openly gay MP) bowing out of federal politics - CTV

[Screaming Lord Byron]

http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/1082041363839_4/?hub=Canada

CTV News has learned that veteran NDP MP Svend Robinson won't be seeking a seat in the next federal election.

First elected to the House of Commons in 1979, the Burnaby, British Columbia MP has since been elected and re-elected seven times, earning him the title of B.C.'s most senior Parliamentarian.

When he publicly declared his homosexuality in 1988, Robinson, 52, became the first openly gay member of Parliament.

Aside from his distinction as a pioneer championing the political cause of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people, Robsinson is famous for his taking part in several acts of civil disobediance -- including a 1993 protest Clayoquot Sound for which he was briefly imprisoned.

-Not entirely out of the blue, but still a pretty big shock.

[Canuckistanian]

1. Too bad

I'll always remember him for the championing of right-to-die issues such as the ALS sufferer, Sue Rodriguez.

[Screaming Lord Byron]

2. He's picked a good time to go, with the party on a roll in BC.

He kept things going for us in BC during some pretty tough times. He was an MP for 25 years. That's enough for anyone, I guess.

[Hand]

3. So long, Svend, we'll miss you...

You've got more heart and guts than the entire Liberal and Conservative parties combined. Best of luck--have a great life!

:hug:

[Screaming Lord Byron]

4. Apparently his reasons are serious and health-related.

Not good.

[Screaming Lord Byron]

5. The story is so bizarre and unexpected it should have its own thread.