MPP Joe Cimino has resigned his seat in the Provincial Legislature as of this afternoon, Thursday November 20th, 2014. Cimino issued the following statement citing family and personal health issues as reasons for his decision in the surprise announcement this afternoon:
Sudbury - Today I am making an announcement that I am sure will be a huge surprise to the community. After much reflection and thought, I have decided to resign my position as a Sudbury MPP as of end of day today.
I have been asked several times in the past how I was able to balance my public obligations as a City Councilor with my family life. Even though it was difficult to do, I was able to be there for my young children, wife and extended family while still serving my community with complete dedication. Unfortunately the pendulum has swung too far to one side in the last several months. Simply, for my personal health wellness, and more importantly the well being of my family I must resign my seat in the Provincial Legislature.
I maintain my full support for New Democratic values, and the essential work that Andrea Horwath and the Ontario NDP Caucus are doing at Queens Park. The NDP members are a wonderful team of dedicated hard working individuals who are truly fighting for the important issues to Ontarians. I have a new heightened respect for the hard work that all members of the Ontario Legislature do.
I close by thanking my family, relatives, friends, residents, volunteers and supporters whom I shared a wonderful election experience with. I thank all the labour groups that have for many years worked with me to better our community and wish them the best as they continue to advocate for the worker and families. To my current staff, I know this is a shock but as friends I know you understand and accept my decision.
I ask media to respect the fact that I am reentering private life fully and wish this release to be my only comment on the tough decision that my family and I have made. I thank you in advance for your understanding in this matter.
According to Elections Ontario, a by-election must be called within six months of the Chief Electoral Officer receiving the warrant calling for the issue of the writ. That warrant is issued after the MPP has resigned or vacated his position.