FREDERICTON, N.B.- A surprise political resignation out of Fredericton this morning.

Premier David Alward has announced the resignation of Energy Minister and Rothesay MLA Margaret Ann Blaney.

Blaney has represented the riding since 1999 and will become the CEO of Efficiency New Brunswick effective June 4th.

Blaney says it has been difficult to balance the job of a politician with family life following a divorce a year-and-a-half ago.She was also the minister responsible for the Status of Women and has held various cabinet positions throughout her political career.

 
A by-election will be held to fill the vacant seat but the premier hasn’t set a date yet.