After a long career as a federal and provincial New Democrat, Dawn Black is retiring from politics.

The MLA for New Westminster says she won't run again in the next B.C. election, although she will continue to serve until the province goes to the polls.

Black was first elected to the House of Commons in 1988 and served three terms before moving to provincial politics and being elected an MLA in 2009.

She also served as interim B.C. NDP leader after former leader Carole James was forced out of her post by a caucus revolt.

Black says representing the people of New Westminster in Ottawa and Victoria has been a tremendous privilege and she loves the job, but it's time to make way for the next generation.

She says she's looking forward to spending more time with her family, including her seven grandchildren, and to traveling with her husband Peter.