Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse MSP Christina McKelvie has announced she is temporarily stepping aside from her ministerial role due to an undisclosed medical condition.
Ms McKelvie will take medical leave from Monday, March 1, whilst she receives some treatment.
She is however, still expected to contest the Holyrood elections in May.
In the meantime her Government role as Minister for Older People & Equalities is being covered by Cabinet Secretary for Social Security and Older People, Shirley-Anne Somerville.
Ms McKelvie announced the news on her Twitter, saying: “Wee update from me with some personal news: I will be spending some time with #NHSScotland in March.
“@S_A_Somerville will be covering my Ministerial duties from next Monday.
“Whilst I will be out of action for a short time, my constituency office remains open and ready to help. You can get in touch with me through email, phoning my constituency office, or through my website.
“I’m so proud and privileged to have served the people of Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse for the past decade. I’m looking forward to the election campaign ahead so I can continue to be the MSP for this fantastic constituency.
“Many thanks to family, close friends, and constituency staff for support. See you soon.”
Ms McKelvie was inundated with messages of support from her fellow peers and constituents and received a message from First Minister Nicola Sturgeon who Tweeted: “We are all thinking of you.”
Clydesdale SNP MSP Aileen Campbell also posted and said: “Thinking of you!! Take care & stay strong – wishing you all the best!!”
Many others including Councillor Josh Wilson, Councillor Maureen Chalmers and Shona Robison MSP also sent well wishes to the MSP.
Ms McKelvie has represented the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse constituency for a decade.
