Saskatchewan will have a new Minister of Agriculture, likely before this year's crop is off. Lyle Stewart has announced he will be stepping down after revealing he is battling colorectal cancer.

“I was recently diagnosed with colorectal cancer and will be undergoing several months of pretty aggressive treatment,” Stewart said in a release issued by the province. “Agriculture is a very important portfolio in this province and it has been a tremendous honour to serve as Saskatchewan’s Agriculture Minister under two great Premiers over the past six years. However, given my current circumstances, I didn't feel I would be able to give that position the attention it deserved, so I have asked Premier Moe to appoint a new Minister.”

Premier Scott Moe has high praise for Stewart, saying his health needs to be his top priority. Moe expects to name a new Agriculture Minister next week.