FORT MCMURRAY, Alta. - Alberta Conservative MP Brian Jean says he is stepping down from his Fort McMurray-Athabasca seat effective next Friday.
Jean says the decision has been difficult, but there's a right time to move on in every job.
He says he is looking forward to spending more time at home with his family. He did not elaborate.
Jean was first elected as MP for the northern Alberta riding in 2004 and won re-election in 2006, 2008 and 2011.
He has served as parliamentary secretary to the minister of transport, infrastructure and communities.
His most recently duties have been on the finance, justice and industry committees.
"I’ve spent the past 10 years fighting for the priorities of northern Albertans in Ottawa and now I feel I’m needed more right here at home in Fort McMurray,” Jean said in a news release Friday.
He pointed out that he always told his constituents he would remain in the job for seven to 10 years.
“With the strongest economy in the G8, a positive decision on the Northern Gateway pipeline and significantly improved regional infrastructure, I feel ready to step aside and allow someone new to take on the job knowing that I am passing it on in great condition.”
He said he is proud of his work on transportation, economic issues, community funding and pipeline and energy infrastructure.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued a statement thanking Jean for his service.
"Brian has been a strong voice for Alberta and a valued member within our caucus," Harper said. "He has brought his expertise and insight to several roles."
The Fort McMurray-Athabasca riding encompasses 183,000 square kilometres and more than 50 communities, requiring Jean to log thousands of hours of road and air travel.