A Montreal member of the National Assembly is stepping down temporarily from the Liberal caucus.
The news comes after a young woman alleged she was sexually assaulted by a Liberal MNA in 2014.
At a Laval University vigil Wednesday evening in support of victims of alleged sex crimes at a student residence, Alice Paquet said she was assaulted while working as a hostess at a Quebec City restaurant during the summer two years ago.
Premier Philippe Couillard issued a statement on Thursday that Deputy Government House Leader Gerry Sklavounos is no longer in the Liberal caucus and is sitting as an Independent.
Couillard said he's taking the matter seriously and asked the party whip to launch an immediate internal investigation into the allegation.
Police confirmed a sexual assault complaint was made by the woman last March, but the identity of the alleged attacker has not been revealed.
They added no charges have been laid in the case, that, right now, it's only an accusation.
Sklavounos represents the riding of Laurier-Dorion, which includes Villeray and Park Extension.