N.L. Liberal leader resigns over health

The leader of the Liberal Party in Newfoundland and Labrador, Yvonne Jones,has announced she is stepping down as leader but is notleaving politics.

"I am not retiring from politics," she said."I am stepping back from my role as the leader of the Liberal Party ofNewfoundland and Labrador."

Jones has been fighting breast cancer for more than a year, and although the cancer has not returned, her white blood cell count has not recovered and her immune system is weak.

"I am sad and I am a little angry. I am feeling cheated by cancer from doing something that I have dreamed of doing my entire life," she said.

Jones said she doesn't feel healthy enough to fight an election battle and she will instead take time to concentrate on healing.

"My physical stamina is not where it needs to be to take the party through the provincial election," she said.

Herresignation will take effect as soon as the party executive picks her successor. Once healthy again, she plans to continue her political career.

"Politics has been my greatest passion," she said.

Jones has been fighting breast cancer for more than a year.

The Liberal Party executive is slated to meet Tuesday night to finalize plans to choose a successor.