REGINA - Longtime MLA for Cumberland Doyle Vermette has announced he is not running for re-election when his current term ends in 2024.
The NDP issued a statement Tuesday confirming that Vermette will be leaving politics next year.
“Being the MLA for the Cumberland constituency has been one of the greatest experiences I’ve had in my lifetime. It has brought me many positives and sometimes many challenges, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” said Vermette in a statement. “I have built trust and many relationships with wonderful people, and I hope these relationships will only get stronger as we continue to fight for a better province. I am continually humbled by the overwhelming support from our constituents and will be forever grateful.”
Vermette, who is of Métis ancestry, has lived in La Ronge since 1990 and has been MLA since 2008. During his time as MLA for Cumberland, Doyle served as Critic for Mental Health and Addictions.
He also served on the Board of Education for Northern Lights School Division/Nortep-Norpac for eight years, serving two years as board chair, and was also alderman for Air Ronge from 1994 to 1997.
“I have been in office since 2008 and now feel it is time for another to take the wheel and continue the fight for the people of our constituency,” said Vermette in a statement. “I would like to sincerely thank the constituency assistants that have been by my side during my time in office; Vicky Sanderson, Al Rivard, the late Bernice Custer, Devin Bernatchez and Jude Ratt, Pearl Doris Morin and all those who have also filled in as casual — they have been instrumental in my actions and decision making. Thank you to all Elders, community leaders and all those who have provided any support.”
“Doyle’s contributions to his community, the North, and this province are immeasurable and you’d be hard-pressed to find someone in this chamber so dedicated to the community he calls home. His advocacy and accomplishments have truly cemented a lasting legacy,” said Opposition Leader Carla Beck in a statement. “Always quick with a joke, his presence will be sorely missed and we wish him and his family nothing but the absolute best as he takes on this next chapter of his life.”
