Lore says her diagnosis was “very sudden” and that she is working with medical professionals to address it immediately.
B.C.’s minister of children and family development, Grace Lore, says she has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer and is temporarily stepping away from her role as minister.
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Lore says in a statement that she intends to participate in important votes in the legislature to ensure the stability of the NDP government, which holds a slim majority of one vote.
Lore, who is the MLA for Victoria-Beacon Hill, says her diagnosis was “very sudden” and that she is working with medical professionals to address it immediately.
She says the important ministry requires someone’s full attention, and by stepping back she can focus on treatment, recovery and returning to work as soon as possible.
Lore says she is committed to beating the cancer.
Premier David Eby says in a statement that New Democrat MLA Jodie Wickens, the minister of state for child care, will step into Lore’s role on a temporary basis.
“Grace has persevered through immense personal family challenges in recent years, including the illness of her young son,” Eby says. “She is an inspiration to me and to people right across the province.”
B.C. Green party House Leader Rob Botterell says in a statement that the caucus respects Lore’s decision to prioritize her health.
“Our thoughts are with her and her family, and we wish her strength and healing in the days ahead,” he said.
Eby’s government holds 47 seats in the legislature, while the Conservatives have 44 and the Greens have two.