The province’s PC Party says it’s gearing up for a “real contest” to choose its next leader.

Ches Crosbie resigned a week ago today with MHA David Brazil taking over as interim leader. That triggered the resignation of party president Eugene Manning who has publicly expressed interest in the leadership, adding he wouldn’t be able to remain impartial as required by the president.

And that has thrust party vice-president Matthew Janes into the role of interim president. Janes says while no one has formally entered the leadership race yet, there are some interesting names floating around.

Janes says the party executive will meet next week for the first time since the election to plan a path forward, particularly for the leadership.

He says timelines and deadlines will be announced shortly thereafter.