DRUGS and alcohol minister Christina McKelvie has stepped down from the role as she undergoes breast cancer treatment, the Scottish Government has announced.
She had previously recovered from breast cancer in 2021 but said that a new diagnosis in June and medical appointments on Monday made it “clear to me that I need to take a period of leave to focus on my treatment and recovery”.
Her duties will be shared between Heath Secretary Neil Gray and Public Health Minister Jenni Minto in the meantime.
McKelvie said: “In 2021 I was pleased to be able to ring the bell at the Beatson cancer centre to mark the end of my treatment for breast cancer. Unfortunately, in June I was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer and started treatment in July, again at the Beatson.
“For the past month, I have been able to carry out my duties as minister for drugs and alcohol policy, however following medical appointments today, it is clear to me that I need to take a period of leave to focus on my treatment and recovery.
“I want to thank all those in the Beatson and wider NHS who are caring for me so well during this period and have done since my first diagnosis in 2021. And to all women, please remember to check yourself regularly and always attend your screening appointments.”
First Minister John Swinney said: “My thoughts and very best wishes are with Christina during this difficult time for her and her family. It is absolutely right she steps back from her ministerial duties to focus on her health and treatment right now. I thank her for all her work to date and look forward to welcoming her back when she is ready.”
