The oldest MPP in Ontario history is finally retiring.

Monte Kwinter, 86, announced Thursday he will not seek re-election in York Centre next year.

“It has been a distinct honour to serve my community in the Legislature over the past 32 years,” said Kwinter, a former minister in the governments of Dalton McGuinty and David Peterson.

“I am proud of what we accomplished during that time in my riding, and it has been a privilege to serve under three Liberal premiers,” he said.

Kwinter, whose use of a personal mobility scooter led to the construction of accessibility ramps in the legislative chamber, said he remains “as passionate about my work as ever and am proud of the progressive policies this government is enacting to build Ontario up.”

But the veteran MPP, who battled a case of shingles recently that left him hospitalized for months, conceded it is time to turn over the reins to a new generation.

Premier Kathleen Wynne hailed Kwinter for his many decades of service.

“Monte’s representation for his constituency, for the Jewish community, and his stalwart example to MPPs of all stripes is a testament to his character,” said Wynne.

“I know he will retire as a beloved member of the Legislature and a mentor to many,” she said, noting he is “one of the most naturally curious people I have ever met.”

“His genuine interest in others, endless drive to make life better in Ontario and willingness to share his experiences and insights make him a brilliant mentor and an outstanding representative for the people of York Centre.”

First elected under Peterson in 1985, he held numerous posts at Queen’s Park, including solicitor general.

In 2013, he surpassed late Progressive Conservative MPP Addison Alexander MacKenzie, in office from 1945 until 1967, as the oldest provincial parliamentarian.

A scion of the meat-packing family that produced Kwinter’s gourmet hot dogs — once a Toronto delicacy — he has always been a popular fixture at Queen’s Park.

Like many MPPs, Conservative Lisa MacLeod (Nepean-Carleton) took to Twitter to wish him well.

“Best wishes @montekwinter. My fondest memory is when you left cabinet you invited young me up to your incredible office for a tour. xo,” tweeted MacLeod.

Former Tory cabinet minister Frank Klees praised Kwinter as “a statesman and friend.”

NDP House Leader Gilles Bisson said he hopes he “enjoys a long retirement filled with family and friends.”

“While we didn’t see eye to eye with Mr. Kwinter on the direction his Liberal party is taking the province, I respect Monte’s long service to his constituents and thank him for his many years of public service,” said Bisson.

The Liberals said a nomination meeting in Kwinter’s Toronto riding has yet to be scheduled.

Last week, Mario Sergio, who represents neighbouring York West, said he would not be running in the June 7, 2018 election.

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Sergio, a 22-year veteran who will turn 77 next week, was Wynne’s minister for seniors before stepping down from cabinet last year.

“It has been an amazing experience,” he said of his life in politics.

“I will cherish recollecting the many memorable events and the pleasure to have known thousands of beautiful people. I want to say a big ‘thank you’ to the hundreds of volunteers making every election a memorable one.”

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