Calgary NDP MLA Stephanie McLean resigns after being absent for fall session

Read the latest on this story:Stephanie McLean was paid while on leave from the Legislature

Former Alberta cabinet minister Stephanie McLean has resigned, after previously saying she wouldn't seek re-election.

Premier Rachel Notleyposted on Facebook just before 10 p.m. Wednesday that she's received notice the Calgary-Varsity MLA had resigned from her position.

"We wish Stephanie and her family all the best in their future endeavours,"Notleywrote.

In May, McLeansaid that she wouldn't be seeking re-election, saying she planned to pursue her law practice instead. McLeanwas formerlyminister for the status of women and Service Alberta.

• Calgary NDP MLA Stephanie McLean won't run for re-election

In a statement, McLean told CBC News her resignation was effective immediatelyand that she is pursuing a job offer with a law firm.

McLean was on leave for the entire fall session, the speaker's office confirmed to Radio-Canada in November.

The legislature wrapped its final sitting of 2018 in December, and it's not yet known if the current legislature will hold another sitting before the spring election.

McLean made history as the first MLA in the province to give birth while holding office.

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