Randy Boissonnault, Canada's former employment minister, resigned on Wednesday following allegations of falsely claiming Indigenous ancestry, causing significant embarrassment for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government.

The controversy heightened after Boissonnault's statements regarding his heritage appeared inconsistent.

He was also linked to a company that incorrectly claimed to be Indigenous-owned, allowing it to bid on federal contracts reserved for Indigenous businesses.

Boissonnault has apologized for any confusion over his ancestry, maintaining he neither claimed to be Indigenous nor authorized any misrepresentation by his business associate.

Criticism intensified as a Metis MP and others accused him of 'pretendianism.' Boissonnault's resignation comes at a time when Trudeau's administration, facing low approval ratings and potential elections, strives to reconcile with Indigenous communities.

The role of labor minister will be temporarily filled by Veterans Affairs Minister Ginette Petitpas Taylor.