The current term will be the last one for Saskatoon-Wanuskewin MP Maurice Vellacott.
Vellacott, who was first elected in 1997, is in his sixth term in the House of Commons. In a statement Thursday he announced he has decided to retire from politics as of the 2015 vote.
"After much deliberation, I have come to the decision that now is the right time to pass the torch," said Vellacott.
"At the time of the next election, I'll be 60 years young and in my 19th year as a Member of Parliament."
During his time in Parliament Vellacott was well-known for championing socially-conservative causes, co-chairing the parliamentary pro-life caucus. He also founded the Canada-Turkey Friendship group in Parliament.
Vellacott cited seeking more time with his family as a reason for his decision, including devoting more attention to his 20-year-old son who "struggles with debilitating mental health challenges," said Vellacott. He said he also looks forward to supporting the efforts of his youngest son as he pursues a competitive hockey career.
In his statement, Vellacott also talked about possibly completing a law degree and also utilizing his doctoral degree to do some college teaching.
The Saskatoon-Wanuskewin riding is a combined urban-rural riding that includes north Saskatoon, Warman, Martenville and a rural area that includes Borden, Radisson, Maymont , Blaine Lake, Hafford and Ruddell.
That riding will be disappearing due to recent electoral boundary changes coming into effect in 2015. The Saskatoon portion of Vellacott's riding becomes part of Saskatoon West while much of the rural portion will join the new riding of Humboldt-Warman-Martensville-Rosthern.
