A popular Halifax-area MLA is making a run at federal politics.
Lena Metlege Diab has announced she is going to pursue the federal Liberal nomination for the riding of Halifax
West.
Throughout her political career, she has also served as Minister of Immigration and population growth, Ministre des Affaires acadiennes et francophonie and most recently, Minister of Labour and Advanced Education.
“It’s always bittersweet when a colleague and friend decides to step down and pursue other avenues, but I understand Minister Metlege Diab’s desire for public service as she seeks the federal nomination,” said Premier Iain Rankin. “I have always welcomed Lena’s advice and will miss her around the cabinet table. I am looking forward to continuing to work with her at the federal level to advance our
priorities.”
Metlege Diab is the daughter of Lebanese immigrants to Canada. Born in Halifax, she lived in Lebanon from the age of 2 returning home to Halifax at 11 years old. Despite not speaking any English, she went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science, a Master of Public Administration and a law degree. She also had three children while attending law school and articling.
“This was a difficult decision for me,” said Metlege Diab. “I have loved my time in provincial politics but after a lot of thought and consultation with my family, friends and colleagues, I am ready to take my experience and talents to advocate for Nova Scotians in Parliament. It has been an honour and a privilege to serve the residents of Halifax Armdale for the last eight years. Merci à toutes et à tous”.
Metlege Diab has represented the provincial riding of Halifax-Armdale since 2013.
