Quebec's longest serving MNA announces retirement

Franois Gendron, who was first elected in 1976 alongside Ren Lvesque, is retiring from political life.

The 72-year-oldParti QubcoisMNA confirmed Saturdayhe will not run in the fall election. He was the longest-serving member of the National Assembly, having been elected 11 times over 42 years.

Gendron has held various posts in the provincialgovernment, including minister of education, natural resources and agriculture. He was also interim leader of the PQ and president of the National Assembly.

"I gavemyself fully and completely,but I am very, very happy to have done so," he told supporters on Saturday when announcing his resignation.

The PQ is hoping to hold on to his riding ofAbitibi-Ouest in the October provincial election.

PQ leader Jean-Franois Lisesaid Gendronhas a successor in mind.

"We know that there will be a great candidate who will take over and that Franois will support him," Lise said.