Skeena MLA Ellis Ross delivered his farewell address in the B.C. legislature on May 14.

The two-term politician from Kitamaat Village is stepping down to run with the Conservative Party of Canada as a Member of Parliament for the Skeena-Bulkley Valley riding.

In his address, Ross shared personal reflections and his motivations for supporting various economic sectors.

鈥淪peaker, I struggled as a native growing up on a reserve. So, 20 years ago, I decided nobody was gonna have to go through what I went through. That鈥檚 why I support forestry, mining, energy or anything connected to a strong economy. Because a good job means a world of difference to people and communities,鈥� Ross said.

Ross鈥� career in provincial politics began when he was first elected in 2017 to the Skeena riding, which had previously been an NDP stronghold.

Upon his election, Premier Christy Clark appointed Ross to cabinet, where he served as minister of natural gas development and minister responsible for housing until the NDP and Greens defeated the government on a confidence vote.

Ross was re-elected as MLA in 2020. The following year, he became a candidate for leadership of the BC Liberal Party, but was defeated by Kevin Falcon.

Ross thanked Falcon in his address and also acknowledged the support of his parents before returning to his time in the legislature.

鈥淎s a Haisla chief councillor, I originally started fighting Christy Clark鈥檚 Liberal government but ended up teaming up with her government on forestry and mining and LNG. And I鈥檒l always be grateful to the BC Liberals for helping uplift an entire generation of British Columbians, who really needed it at the time,鈥� Ross said.

In his concluding remarks, Ross highlighted the personal sacrifices and support from his family.

鈥淚 feel very honoured and grateful to be a small part of it, and I鈥檓 going to miss my colleagues, as well, on both sides of the house, believe it or not,鈥� he said.

鈥淭hanks to my wife and family. They don鈥檛 like the time that I spend away from home, they don鈥檛 like the criticism I get, but they appreciate what I鈥檝e been trying to do for the last 20 years and I couldn鈥檛 do it without my wife.鈥�