Victoria MP Collins plans to continue representing with new baby on the way

Victoria MP Collins plans to continue representing with new baby on the way
File Photo
Laurel Collins and her partner, James, are preparing for a new baby this spring.

Victoria Member of Parliament Laurel Collins says she plans on continuing to represent the people of Victoria while expecting her first child this spring.

Collins, a member of the New Democratic Party, took to social media to share the news on Tuesday, saying that she and her partner, James, will be welcoming a new baby in April.

With a baby on the way, Collins noted that she is “committed to getting people the support they need,” while continuing to work towards a “just and sustainable COVID-19 recovery” in 2021.

“My wonderful partner will be taking full parental leave and travelling with me when I need to be in Ottawa,” said Collins on social media. “In COVID the new normal means many are working remotely. I’ll continue to take part in virtual parliament — voting, debating bills and in committee online from Victoria.”

According to the Island MP, with a baby on the way she has drawn inspiration from other new moms in world politics, such as New Zealand’s prime minister, Jacinda Ardern.

“There is no reason why women starting a family should be barred from pursuing these challenging and meaningful roles,” Collins said.

“I also know that many women do not have the support that I will have. We must continue to advocate for a future where women are not the assumed sole caregiver, forced to choose between having a family and a career.”

Over the past several weeks, there have been rumours about a potential federal election being held this spring as well and, depending on the timeline, it could mean that Collins is still pregnant during the campaign trail, however, that won’t stop the MP.

“Whenever the federal election is called, I will be running again to represent the people of Victoria,” noted Collins. “I’m humbled by the confidence and trust the people of Victoria have placed in me and I’ll continue to work hard as their Member of Parliament.”

The Vancouver Island representative says she expects to be nominated as an election candidate during an upcoming virtual Victoria Federal NDP Electoral District Association meeting on January 23.

Collins previously held a position on Victoria’s city council before she was elected an MP in October of 2019.

The councillor seat she left vacant was recently filled this past December by Stephen Andrew in a byelection that was delayed due to COVID-19.

Laurel Collins and her partner, James, are preparing for a new baby this spring.

Laurel Collins and her partner, James, are preparing for a new baby this spring. (Collins / NDP)

Graham CoxGraham Cox

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