Quebec labour minister quits to keep company

Quebec Labour Minister David Whissell has resignedfromcabinet over controversy about his stake in a construction firm.

Whissell, 42,had fended off criticismthis weekabout his co-ownership of ABC Rive-Nord, a asphalting company that does business with the province's Transport Ministry.

ABC Rive-Nord has won about $800,000 in government contracts, many without tenders including one worth $564,000 for paving work in Whissell's riding.

The member of the national assemblyfor Argenteuil insists he did nothing wrong under Quebec's governmentethics guidelines, but is relinquishinghis cabinet postto maintain his holdingsin the company.

Allegations of impropriety have hurt his reputation,but he's still proud of his family's long history in the construction business, Whissell told reporters in Quebec City.

Premier Jean Charest stood by Whissell's side during his resignation announcement.

Charest said his former minister's decision has prompted him to review ethics guidelines for cabinet ministers.From nowon, anyonewho owns a company that deals with the government will not be allowed to sit in cabinet, Charest said.