A Toronto-area MP is interested in becoming the leader of the provincial Liberal party.

MP Nate Erskine-Smith has declared his intention in a video posted on his Twitter account.

He is the first to enter the race to replace former leader Steven Delcua who stepped down after last June’s provincial election.

He describes himself as an independent-minded Liberal, willing to speak his mind, raise new ideas, and disagree with his own party when it matters.

“Ontario Liberals need generational and grassroots renewal, and our province needs serious leadership to meet the big challenges we face,” says Erskine-Smith.

Erskine-Smith identifies health care, education, housing and climate change as some of the key challenges.

“We deserve competence and compassion in meeting these challenges. A strong economic agenda and fiscal discipline alongside a sense of fairness for those in need. Delivered with honesty and integrity. We need serious leadership, for a change.”

The Liberals hold just eight seats at Queen’s Park, four shy of achieving official party status.

A leadership vote will be held on December 2.