Liberal MNA David Whissell quits politics

Quebec Liberal MNA David Whissell for Argenteuil hugs his wife, Francine Vaillancourt, after announcing his resignation at a news conference in his riding office Friday, December 16, 2011 in Lachute.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz

QUEBEC CITY - David Whissell is quitting politics after 14 years as a Liberal MNA for Argenteuil.

He said he wished to take more time for his family and his other entrepreneurial affairs.

In September 2009 Whissell quit the Charest cabinet rather than abandon his ABC Rive-Nord asphalt business, which his family has been involved in for many years.

Whissell's departure leaves Jean Charest's Liberals with 64 members in the 125-seat national assembly and reduces the premier's thin majority to four.

Whissell was named labour minister in 2007, but resigned from cabinet two years later amid conflict-of-interest allegations.

Whissell found himself at the center of a controversy as media exposed public contracts worth thousands of dollars obtained by his company ABC Rive-Nord.

"I was an easy target for the opposition and was hit by insinuations but I never did anything wrong, I just dig my job and nobody accused me of anything, nobody could say that the MNA for Agenteuil did anything wrong," he said.

The rise of the CAQ in polls did not play any role in his decision to quit politics, said Whissell.

"It had nothing to do with it. I have fully confidence in Jean Charest and in my mind he'll be re-elected Premier because he still has a lot to give to Quebec. I remain loyal to the Liberal party," he said.

Premier Jean Charest released a statement offering praise to Whissell, who was, "devoted to serving Quebecers for 14 years of exemplary service."

Whissell's vacated seat will be filled in a by-election or general election within the next six months.