Elaine Taylor wants to stay in politics.

Only weeks before the probable calling of a territorial election, the minister of Tourism and Culture said today she will again seek the Yukon Party nomination in Whitehorse West.

She has represented the riding since 2002, when former Yukon Party premier Dennis Fentie’s first of two governments was elected.

“As a member of the legislative assembly and minister, I have worked on a wide variety of matters and have gained invaluable experience in addressing issues of importance to my constituents and that of advancing government policies and legislation for the betterment of our territory,” Taylor said in a statement.

It points out she has worked on a number of issues important to residents residing in the Arkell, Copper Ridge, Logan and Ingram neighbourhoods, including:

• the completion of the Hamilton Boulevard extension;

• the construction of the new Emergency Response Centre;

• furthering the development of neighbourhood parks such as Lazulite Park;

• making land available and advancing affordable housing initiatives; and

• modernizing the Condominium Act to meet the volume and complexity of today’s marketplace

Taylor, who grew up in Watson Lake, is the deputy premier. She is also the minister responsible for the Women’s Directorate and for French Language Services within the government.

“I am fully committed to serving my constituency and our territory, and will continue to work hard to advance issues of importance on Yukoners’ behalf in support of a strong economy, high quality of life and a bright future for all,” Taylor added.

Former journalist Richard Mostyn is the Liberals’ candidate in Whitehorse West.

No potential NDP candidate has publicly emerged.

Confirmation of Taylor’s plans leaves Economic Development Minister Stacey Hassard as the only minister who has not publicly indicated whether he will run again.

Ministers Doug Graham and Currie Dixon are planning to leave politics.