AXWORTHY RESIGNS

After 14 years in public life Justice Minister Chris Axworthy will return to his academic career.

Axworthy announced today his resignation from the cabinet portfolios of Justice, Aboriginal Affairs, and Intergovernmental Affairs. He will not seek re-election as MLA in Saskatoon-Fairview.

"I am currently exploring career opportunities in private life, including teaching law and work with an established Saskatchewan law firm," Axworthy said. "I have found my years in public life extremely valuable and rewarding. It has been a great privilege to serve the people of this province."

On an interim basis, Minister Ron Osika will handle the ministerial duties of Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs, while Minister John Nilson will assume the role of Attorney General and Justice Minister.

In accepting Axworthy's resignation Premier Lorne Calvert noted the minister's substantive contributions to the people of Saskatchewan.

"Axworthy made a particularly valuable contribution to the province in addressing aboriginal and justice issues," Calvert said. "He was instrumental in establishing the Commission on First Nations and Métis Peoples and Justice Reform and also took a lead role in developing the province's successful strategy for dealing with car thefts."

"On the national and international stage Axworthy used his competent skills as a negotiator and diplomat to effectively put forward Saskatchewan's position at the World Trade Organization and in our ongoing relations with Ottawa."

In addition, Axworthy assisted with the formation of the Cree Court in Northern Saskatchewan, the implementation of The Métis Act, and helped establish legislation aimed at combatting the sexual exploitation of children.

Axworthy was also a strong supporter of the Métis and Off-Reserve Strategy, as well as the Aboriginal Employment Development Strategy.

Axworthy holds a master's degree in Law from McGill University. He began public life in 1988 as the Member of Parliament for Saskatoon-Clark's Crossing where he served two terms. Axworthy served a third term in Parliament as the MP for Saskatoon-Rosetown-Biggar.

In Saskatoon Axworthy was elected as the MLA for Saskatoon-Fairview on June 28th, 1999 in a by-election. He was re-elected in the 1999 general election.

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Rob Cunningham Media Services Regina Phone: (306)787-6349