The federal New Democrats remain "resolute" in the face of news that leader Jack Layton has been diagnosed with another form of cancer and is taking a temporary leave of absence to fight it, says Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Nathan Cullen.
"From the meeting that I just came from, this is not a group of people adrift," Cullen said Wednesday, referring to the NDP caucus meeting held Wednesday in Ottawa. "This is a group of people extremely focussed and united to one another."
As anticipated, Quebec MP Nycole Turmel was selected interim leader at the meeting.
Layton attended via video from his home in Toronto, and addressed his MPs both at the start and end of the gathering.
Cullen said the mood of the meeting was "incredibly emotional" but also "uplifting and determined."
"Our determination as a group has never been more resolute, in part because we recognize the extra work that we have to do and that we don't have Jack as a spokesperson for the next while," Cullen said.
"If anyone in the Conservative ranks thinks that they're going to get an easier ride because Jack is off getting better, they'll quickly realize that's not the case."
Layton has been battling prostate cancer for 18 months and is still recovering from surgery in the spring to repair a hip fracture. Despite the new health challenge, he's vowed to be back on the job by the time Parliament resumes on Sept. 19.
"I've never seen someone who's gone through what Jack has and remained as positive and focussed," Cullen said, although he also conceded Layton did not appear or sound well.
Turmel, who represents Hull-Aylmer, is a rookie MP, but Cullen noted she headed up one of the largest public unions in the country prior to entering federal politics and brings that background to the table.
"According to government members and cabinet ministers, when they've had to negotiate with her, she's an incredibly fierce negotiator and has a very, very strong will," Cullen said. "All of those things you'll need when you're standing up to Stephen Harper."
Asked if he would run for the party's leadership if Layton is unable to return, Cullen gave a flat "no" but also maintained it won't be an issue.
"My focus is Skeena, there is no leadership job available," Cullen said. "Jack Layton's our leader and he's going to be."
-- with files from Canadian Press
