BC Southern Interior NDP MP, Alex Atamanenko says it will still be business as usual for the federal New Democrats despite the illness of party leader Jack Layton.

On Friday Layton announced from his Toronto riding that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer, but would be staying on as NDP leader while he fights the disease.

Atamanenko said he’s happy that Layton has decided to stay on as leader and the party will support him through his illness.

“He’s really a dynamic individual,” Atamanenko said. “He’s able to bring people together, not only within our own party but with other parties.

“So I’m really glad for our country that he’s there. It’s going to be difficult for him but he’ll make it and we’re there to support him.”

As the Liberals and Conservatives stay deadlocked in the polls, talk of a spring federal election has sprung up.

When asked how the NDP would navigate an election while Layton fights a battle with cancer, Atamanenko said other party members would have to pick up the baton.

“The leader has a gruelling schedule even without an election,” he noted. “So I’d imagine he’s going to have to cut that back a bit and some of us are going to have to step up to the plate and help him out.

“If an election is called, we’ll do the best we can. We’re ready for it. Hopefully Jack will be on the mend soon.”

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