If you see Guy Gentner, buy the man a beer.

After serving North Delta as its MLA since 2005 - and as a Delta municipal councillor for six years prior to that - Gentner's earned a jug or two.

The veteran New Democrat MLA has decided to retire from politics after serving his term and won't be running in next May's provincial election.

"I do look forward to drinking pilsner in Prague," he declared. "Start my adventures there.

"I can't see myself being a 60-something politician, as a career. I still see myself being an activist somehow," said Gentner, 57.

He won't venture the typical "never say never" comment you hear from most "retiring" politicians about seeking some other political office.

"I'm kind of the opinion I'm done," Gentner said.

"There's still enough room in my life to try something different. I've been consumed by politics. I think one of the difficulties I'm having is losing the fire in my belly. And when you get there, you know it's time to move.

"I think the turnstiles have got to turn," he explained. "I think us baby boomers have got to pass on the reins, so to speak.

Generally speaking, in the '60s we talked the talk, but we really don't walk the walk. It's time to understand the global context; we've really in many ways screwed up this planet and it's now time for those who are going to inherit the mess to start taking responsibility."

If the NDP wins the next election it's no long shot to say Gentner would likely be in cabinet. Surprisingly, it's the likelihood of an NDP win that's helped him make his decision to bow out.

"That's one of the reasons why it's time to move on, too. I think we're going to be in good stead in North Delta. I think for us the bar will be high. For the NDP, the honeymoon will probably be over the day after the election.

"If there's a time for succession planning, I think it's now. I'm pretty sure we can win the next election in North Delta."

Gentner moved from Richmond to North Delta in 1982.

He and his wife Shirley have two children and three grandchildren.

Optimist contributor