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Cullen will not seek provincial NDP leadership

There will be no future as B.C.'s NDP leader from Nathan Cullen, currently Skeena-Bulkley Valley's NDP member of parliament.

The MP made the announcement Monday afternoon that "after careful deliberation over a number of weeks, I've decided this is simply not the time for me to take on the challenge of the B.C. leadership race."

He cited unfinished commitments to his federal constituents and family responsibilities as the reasons for his decision. He recently became the father of twins.

“We’re at critical stages in a number of major projects I am working on with the good people of the Northwest and I really believe this is where my energies must continue to be directed,” Cullen said. 

His projects include his effort to ban oil tankers from B.C.'s coast, developing a robust regional green economy and advocating for Employment Insurance and Department of Fisheries and Oceans reform.

“I am indescribably humbled and honoured to have been urged to seek the BC NDP leadership by hundreds of British Columbians and opinion leaders,” he added.

The current leadership race, both from the Liberals and NDP, means the province is at a "pivotal point" in its development.

“There is real, unprecedented opportunity for lasting renewal on a number of fronts in our province and I appeal to all candidates, New Democrat and Liberal alike, to take full advantage of this unique moment.”