Bloc Québécois MP Jean-Francois Fortin is leaving the party and will sit as an Independent until the 2015 federal
election.

Fortin said in a statement today the Bloc Québécois he joined no longer exists.

The 40-year-old has represented Haute-Gaspesie-La Mitis-Matane-Matapedia since 2011.

Fortin says new Bloc Leader Mario Beaulieu has a one-dimensional, uncompromising approach that ends the credibility established by previous party leaders.

He says Beaulieu has radicalized the party and isn't looking to reunite sovereigntists. Fortin believes his constituents would be better served if he completed his mandate outside the party.

His departure leaves the party with just three members in Ottawa.