Trudeau begins speaking
The Canadian prime minister has just taken to the microphone outside his residence in Ottawa.
“Every morning I’ve woken up as prime minister, I’ve been inspired by the resilience, the generosity and the determination of Canadians,” he says.
“It is the driving force of every single day I have the privilege of serving in this office.”
He is yet to address his future, and translates his opening speech into French.
Justin Trudeau to resign as prime minister of Canada
Justin Trudeau announces he intends to resign as prime minister of Canada.
Speaking at his news conference, the 53-year-old says that although he is a “fighter”, the parliament he is serving is “paralysed” under his leadership.
“Over the holidays. I’ve also had a chance to reflect and have had long talks with my family about our future,” he says.
“I intend to resign as party leader as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust nationwide competitive process.”
He also confirms reports that he spoke with Canada’s governor general Mary Simon this morning and asked her to prorogue parliament
He says Canada deserves a “real choice” at the next election, which could take place at any point before 20 October, and it has “become clear to me that if I’m having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election”.
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