Russ Wyatt not seeking re-election, pursuing federal nod instead

Winnipeg city Coun. Russ Wyatt is notseeking re-election this fall, but is instead setting his sights on Parliament Hill.

Wyatt announced Friday afternoon that he is withdrawing his registration papers for the position of councillor in Transcona, the ward he has represented since 2002.

He now intends to seek the federal Liberal nomination in the Elmwood-Transcona riding.

"I think with the experience that I have and the knowledge of getting things done, working to improve the community, I think I have something to contribute federally," he told CBC News.

Wyatt saidJustin Trudeau's team asked him to run,and he believes the Liberals could form Canada's next government.

"We have our work cut out for us. The great thing about it [is] we have an energetic leader who is passionate about Canada, and that energy and passion is what we need," he said.

"We're a young nation; we have so much to contribute to the rest of the world."

In a news release, Wyatt saidhe believes now is the time to declare hisintentions "in fairness to any potential candidates that may be considering to register to run municipally."

As of Friday evening, Ray Ulasy was the lone nominated candidate for the council seat in Transcona.

Wyatt said he will continue to represent the citizens of his ward"with conviction and passion" until histerm expires onNov. 4.