CRANBROOK, B.C. - A veteran Liberal politician in British Columbia has announced his retirement.
Bill Bennett has represented the Kootenay East riding in the legislature since 2001 but says he wants to spend more time with his family and won't be running in the 2017 provincial election.
He made the decision official Tuesday night as the B.C. Liberal caucus gathered in Cranbrook for a two-day retreat.
Bennett admits it wasn't an easy choice and says he had second thoughts up to an hour before the announcement.
He has served as Minister of Energy and Mines and Minister Responsible for Core Review since 2013 and has held numerous other cabinet posts during his years in office.
Premier Christy Clark says Bennett has worked with the heart of a lion for the region and was never afraid to say what was on his mind.
