OTTAWA – The Conservatives say a member of the Quebec Parliament has tested positive for COVID-19.
Blake Richards of the Conservatives said Richard Lehoux, who represents Beauce in the House of Commons, was experiencing only mild symptoms.
He said that Lehoux was fully vaccinated against the virus.
The party said employees have been informed of the situation and are following public health guidance.
Richards says Lehoux’s diagnosis should be a reminder of the importance of physical distancing and wearing a mask.
Richards did not say when Lehoux was diagnosed, but the Conservatives wrapped up a two-day in-person caucus on Thursday.
Parliament will resume on Monday and Conservative Leader Erin O’Toole has so far declined to say how many of his caucus members have been vaccinated against COVID-19.
It remains unclear whether all 119 Conservative MPs will be allowed into the House of Commons on Monday when the vaccination order goes into effect.
That day, MPs must appear in person if they want to vote for Speaker, a position some Conservatives plan to run for.
All other federal party leaders with seats in the House have confirmed their members are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
As opposition leader, O’Toole has previously said that any MP he tapped to take on a critical role would be willing to show up there.
Lehoux was recently appointed to O’Toole’s shadow cabinet as Shadow Undersecretary for Agriculture, Agricultural Products and Food Security.
This Canadian Press report was first published on November 20, 2021.
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