Liberal Member of Parliament, Shaun Chen, has announced his resignation at the end of this week due to ongoing health issues stemming from a car accident late last year. Chen, who has been the representative for Scarborough North since 2015, explained in a social media post on Monday that the accident left him with serious health complications, limiting his ability to travel to Ottawa regularly for work.
“After careful consideration with my family, I have concluded that stepping down as a Member of Parliament is the best decision for me,” stated Chen in his announcement. He was elected following his tenure as the chair of the Toronto District School Board.
Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed gratitude towards Chen for his dedication to advocating for youth and combating racism. Carney wished Chen a full recovery and success in his future endeavors, acknowledging Chen’s continued positive impact in the years to come.
Chen’s resignation adds to the growing number of MPs who are leaving their positions this summer. Former Liberal cabinet minister Steven Guilbeault and Conservative MP Cathay Wagantall are also set to vacate their seats by the end of this month. Additionally, Conservative MP Larry Brock will step down in mid-September to pursue a role in the Brantford Crown attorney’s office, while NDP MP Alexandre Boulerice intends to run provincially for Québec Solidaire in October after leaving his Montreal seat by the end of summer.
Chen has indicated that his resignation will take effect on Saturday.