NDP deputy leader Libby Davies says that after 40 years of public service, including 18 years as a member of Parliament for Vancouver East, it's time for her to move on. "I know it's time for me to pass the torch. I will not be seeking re-election in the next federal election," Davies said in a written statement Friday. The long-time NDP MP thanked her constituents for electing her even as she took on difficult policy issues over the years. "I have taken on tough issues, like the need for drug policy reform and I remember being told, 'You'll never get re-elected if you take on issues like this.' "But the people of East Vancouver have stood by me," she said. Davies, who is also the party's health critic, was recently credited for pushing forward with an NDP Opposition motion to help thalidomide survivors, which received unanimous support in the House of Commons earlier this month.