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Fifth Vic Labor MP won't seek re-election

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Premier Daniel Andrews praised MP John Eren as an "unrelenting advocate" for Geelong.
Camera IconPremier Daniel Andrews praised MP John Eren as an "unrelenting advocate" for Geelong. Credit: AAP

Former Victorian government minister John Eren will not contest the next election after almost 20 years in parliament, making him the fifth state Labor MP to make such an announcement this week.

The Lara MP, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease two years ago, announced on social media he would move away from politics to focus on his health.

"This diagnosis along with challenges brought about by the COVID pandemic has made me place a greater focus on my health and wellbeing and that of my family and friends, to value the ability to spend quality time with them," he said on Facebook.

"When we come to the end of this term of parliament, in about 12 months, I feel that will be the time for me to step away and spend my time pursuing other things."

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Mr Eren, who migrated from Turkey to Melbourne as a child, previously served as minister for tourism, major events, sport and veterans.

He was first elected to state parliament as an upper house MP for Geelong in 2002 before moving to the lower house to represent Lara in 2006.

Premier Daniel Andrews thanked Mr Eren for being an "unrelenting advocate" for Geelong by pursuing jobs, stable skills and training pathways for the community.

He kickstarted Visit Victoria and helped unlock spaces for women in sport, by working to invest in female-friendly facilities and overseeing the creation of the Office of Women and Girls in Sport Recreation Victoria.

"The best people in public life are those who live their values. John can be rightly proud of his part in our government's achievements," the premier said.

"I wish John and his family the very best for the future. I'm grateful for his friendship and support, just as I'm grateful for his contribution to the parliament, the government and his local community."

Richmond MP Richard Wynne, Altona MP Jill Hennessy, Ringwood MP Dustin Halse and Yan Yean MP Danielle Green also announced this week they were not seeking re-election.

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