Conservative MP Richard Lehoux tests positive for COVID-19, party says

OTTAWA – The Conservative party says a Quebec member of Parliament has tested positive for COVID-19.

Conservative Whip Blake Richards says Richard Lehoux, who represents Beauce in the House of Commons, is experiencing only mild symptoms.

He says Lehoux is fully vaccinated against the virus.

The party says staffers have been made aware of the situation and are following public health guidance.

Richards says Lehoux’s diagnosis should serve as a reminder of the importance of physical distancing and mask-wearing.

Richards didn’t say when Lehoux was diagnosed, but the Conservatives wrapped up a two-day in-person caucus retreat on Thursday.

Parliament resumes Monday, and Conservative Leader Erin O’Toole has so far declined to say how many of his caucus members are vaccinated against COVID-19.

All 119 Conservative MPs have been cleared to enter the House on Monday when a vaccine mandate takes effect.

That day, MPs must appear in person if they want to vote for Speaker, a position for which some Conservatives plan on running.

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 any MP he’s tapped to take on a critic role will be ready to appear there.

Lehoux was recently named to O’Toole’s shadow cabinet as deputy shadow minister for agriculture, agri-food and food security.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 20, 2021.

Note to readers: This is a corrected story. An earlier version said it remained unclear whether all Conservative MPs would be able to enter the House of Commons Monday when a vaccine mandate takes effect. In fact, all have been cleared to enter.