Halifax byelection called, but it might not be necessary

A federal byelection has been set for the riding of Halifax, but a looming general election may make it moot.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced it will be held on April 14.

The seat has been vacant since the end of August when Andy Fillmore launched his mayoral campaign.

Byelections must be called within six months of a vacancy, but with a federal election on the horizon it would cancel it out.

The federal Liberals are selecting a new leader on March 9 and depending on the winner, an election could be called immediately afterward.

The Halifax seat was held by Fillmore since 2015 but had long been an NDP stronghold.