Fraser Steps Down as Housing Minister and Will Not Run for Re-election

Housing Minister Sean Fraser has made the decision to step down from the federal cabinet during the next reshuffle and will not be running for re-election in his Nova Scotia riding.

On Dec. 16, Fraser informed reporters that he was exiting the cabinet to dedicate more time to his wife and two children.

He shared, “The past five years have prompted me to contemplate what I envision the next five years to hold. And more than anything else, I want to spend additional time with my children, and I hope my children will be able to spend more time with me.”

Fraser expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as an MP and cabinet member, acknowledging that he will miss his work and the people he has interacted with.

He emphasized that his decision is not influenced by his rapport with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau or the Liberal government.

Furthermore, Fraser underlined that his resignation is solely driven by his desire to be a more present father and community member.

Aside from his ministerial responsibilities, Fraser highlighted his accomplishments, including bringing immigrants to Canada, addressing the country’s labor challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, and devising a national strategy to tackle housing issues and support low-income families.

Finance Minister Freeland Also Resigns

Fraser’s departure adds to the list of cabinet ministers who have chosen not to seek re-election and will require replacements, such as Sports Minister Carla Qualtrough, National Revenue Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau, and Northern Affairs Minister Dan Vandal.

Employment Minister Randy Boissonnault, who stepped down from cabinet in November amid controversy, will also need to be replaced. Trudeau is anticipated to announce a cabinet reshuffle imminently.

In addition, Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland announced her resignation on the same day. In a letter to Trudeau, Freeland stated that she was informed by him last week that he no longer wanted her to serve as finance minister and offered her a different role within the cabinet.

Freeland maintained that the finance minister should have the full confidence of the prime minister, which she felt she no longer had. Disagreements over financial management strategies and spending priorities were key factors in the decision.

When asked about Freeland’s resignation, Fraser expressed surprise and could not comment on her reasons for stepping down.

Fraser acknowledged his positive working relationship with Freeland during the COVID-19 pandemic and considered her a professional colleague and friend.