THUNDER BAY -- Minister of Northern and Development and Mines Michael Gravelle, citing depression, is taking a temporary leave of absence from his cabinet position.
Gravelle, in an email release to media issued on Monday, said he’s been struggling with a feeling of uneasiness for the past several months and that he was diagnosed with depression a year ago by his doctor.
“Upon advice from my doctors I have asked thepremier to have one of my colleagues temporarily assume responsibility for the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines while I look after my health" Gravelle said in a statement.
"Premier (Kathleen) Wynne has been incredibly supportive of me since the moment I disclosed my challenges to her and she fully supports me in making this decision."
Wynne, in a release issued shortly afterward, said she's tapped another local MPP to take over the Northern Development and Mines portfolio, while also maintaining his present duties.
“It takes great courage to speak publicly about mental health challenges. I want to wish Michael Gravelle a speedy and complete recovery. I know that everyone at Queen's Park will have him in their thoughts and will be rooting for him," Wynne said.
"I have asked Minister Bill Mauro to temporarily assume the responsibilities of the minister of Northern Development and Mines. He will also continue to fulfil his responsibilities as the minister of Municipal Affairs.”
Mauro wished his colleague well, in a statement released on Twitter.
"I have a tremendous amount of respect for my colleague Michael Gravelle and the courage it took to take this step, Mauro said. " The most important thing is for him to take the time he needs to regain his health. We look forward to having him back as soon as possible in cabinet and caucus. He’s an important part of our team."
Gravelle, who asked for privacy, said it should be business as usual at the ministry.
"I certainly cannot begin to express my appreciation for the understanding of my colleagues, friends and family during this time. It will continue to be difficult, but with your love and support I know that I will be able to treat this disease and be back to myself in the very near future, fighting for my constituents and all Northern Ontarians," he said.
Several years ago Gravelle went public with his battle against cancer, vowing to overcome the disease.
Gravelle, 68, was first elected in Thunder Bay-Superior North in 1995 and has served in cabinet since 2007. He's been in his current role since 2013.
