N.L. Liberal Leader Jones has breast cancer

Newfoundland and Labrador Liberal Leader Yvonne Jones says she's scheduled to undergo breast cancer surgery on Monday.

Jones, 42, said Friday that she was diagnosed with breast cancer in July.

"I'm a very strong individual and this is just another one of those obstacles that I have to overcome," she said Friday.

The Liberal Party announced in July that Jones, the member of the house of assembly for Cartwright-L'Anse au Clair, Labrador, will be acclaimed leader at its convention and annual general meeting in St. John's being held Nov. 19 to 21.

Jones said Friday that she plans to continue to lead the party, but Kelvin Parsons will be the party's interim leader while she is receiving treatment.

Jones said she expects to make a full recovery. She said campaign preparations wont be stalled in her absence.

"I expect to be back to work in the new year ready to gear up for an election campaign that will take place in October," said Jones.