Jonathan Denis has tendered his resignation as Alberta's Minister of Justice and Solicitor General as the PC Party candidate for Calgary-Acadia is involved in legal proceedings with his estranged wife.
In a statement released Saturday afternoon, Premier Jim Prentice says he requested Denis' resignation after the premier was 'made aware that legal proceeding have commenced between Jonathan Denis and his estranged wife'.
Prentice says he was made aware of the legal proceedings on Saturday morning. The nature of the legal proceedings has not been released.
Denis is currently running as the PC candidate in Calgary-Acadia.
Following his resignation, Denis released the following statement:
It is with regret that today I have tendered my resignation to the Premier as the Minister of Justice and Solicitor General for Alberta.
A court action involving a personal family matter has caused me to take this step as it would not be appropriate to serve in the capacity of Minister of Justice and Solicitor General, while this is being resolved.
My wife and I have had difficulties in our marriage over the last several months. I am very saddened by these recent circumstances. This is a very difficult time for my family and I, and I would ask for respect for our privacy on this matter while it’s being resolved.
I will remain the PC candidate for Calgary-Acadia. I will continue to work hard to earn the support of my constituents.
Minister Verlyn Olson has been appointed as the Acting Minister of Justice and Solicitor General.
In May 2014, Denis announced he would not be running in the PC Party leadership race and declared his support for Prentice.
