The Nova Scotia legislature in Halifax.Andrew Vaughan
A key member of Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil's cabinet has resigned, three months after he took a leave of absence when a woman was charged with assaulting him.
Andrew Younger has been on temporary leave from his cabinet post since Dec. 23 after a woman was charged with assaulting him on or about Oct. 22, 2013, the day the Liberal government assumed power after the last provincial election.
A news release issued today by the premier's office says Younger submitted his resignation on Tuesday, but he will continue to represent the Halifax-area riding of Dartmouth East as a member of the legislature.
Michel Samson was sworn in as energy minister, communication Nova Scotia minister and the minister responsible for a section of the Gaming Control Act on Tuesday.
Samson also serves as minister of economic and rural development and tourism, and minister of Acadian affairs.
The trial of the woman charged with assaulting Younger is scheduled to begin Nov. 4.
Tara Gault has pleaded not guilty to the assault charge in Halifax provincial court.