A beleaguered Selina Robinson finally decided on Monday afternoon to step down as minister as the raging controversy about her comments on the Palestinian community refused to die down.

However, she said she would remain an MLA for the rest of her term.

Robinson said in a statement: “There have been many discussions over the weekend with the Premier and many caucus colleagues, and together we decided it’s best for me to step aside as Minister of Post Secondary Education and Future Skills. This decision does not excuse my harmful comments, nor does it absolve me of the work I am committed to doing.

“While I had previously decided not to run again in the next election I remain committed to my constituents for the remainder of my term.”