Liberal Member of Parliament Shaun Chen has announced his resignation, citing ongoing health issues stemming from a car accident last year. Chen, who has represented Scarborough North since 2015, revealed in a social media statement that the accident left him with significant health challenges, limiting his ability to travel to Ottawa for parliamentary duties.
“After careful discussions with my family, I have concluded that stepping down as a Member of Parliament is the best course of action for me,” Chen expressed in his statement. Prior to his political career, Chen served as the chair of the Toronto District School Board.
Prime Minister Mark Carney commended Chen for his efforts in advocating for youth and fighting against racism, expressing well wishes for his recovery and future endeavors. Chen’s resignation adds to a recent trend of MPs leaving their positions this summer.
Among those departing, former Liberal cabinet minister Steven Guilbeault and Conservative MP Cathay Wagantall are set to vacate their seats soon. Conservative MP Larry Brock plans to step down in mid-September to join the Brantford Crown attorney’s office, while NDP MP Alexandre Boulerice intends to leave his Montreal seat to pursue a provincial role with Québec Solidaire in October.
Chen’s resignation is scheduled for the end of the week.