PEI NDP chief steps aside

Inoperable lung cancer has forced the leader of the PEI New Democrats to take a leave of absence.

Gary Robichaud, 41, said Thursday he will begin cancer treatments in January.

"I feel good about my chances with respect to my age and my demographic and being a non-smoker, non-drinker," he said at a news conference.

The Summerside teacher and politician said he will continue on as long as possible at Three Oaks high school, but party leadership is out of the question for the time being.

He said that although he has a common form of cancer, doctors have told him it is difficult to treat because of where it is on the lung.

"Honestly, it certainly is a frightening thing to go through," Mr. Robichaud told reporters.

"But at the same time, I think if all the stars are aligned and if everything is in place, then this is something I can beat."

Mr. Robichaud, who does not have a seat in the PEI legislature, said he will return to the party's helm when he is healthy.

The NDP executive council will meet Dec. 9 to discuss the possibilities of appointing an interim leader.