Andrew Swan has returned to his role as minister of competitiveness, training and trade for Manitoba. (Legislative Assembly of Manitoba)

NDP MLA Andrew Swan has been given his old job back and sworn in once again as minister of competitiveness, training and trade for Manitoba.

Swan resigned from the cabinet portfolio in early September when he announced his intention to run for the NDP leadership.

He bowed out of the race in late September after a low turnout at a key delegate-selection meeting in The Pas put him too far behind. Following the meeting, Swan said he could no longer hope to win.

Swan was sworn into the portfolio Monday morning by Premier Gary Doer.

"Federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for internal trade will meet in Whitehorse Oct. 15 to continue the progress made by premiers at this summer's Council of the Federation meeting," Doer said. "Andrew Swan is the perfect person to represent the interests of Manitobans on this important issue."

Swan will also resume his duties as minister responsible for the Manitoba Liquor Control Commission and the Manitoba Lotteries Corporation, Doer said.

Labour and Immigration Minister Nancy Allan had held the ministerial post Swan left vacant while he was involved in the leadership campaign.

Steve Ashton, the MLA for Thompson, and Greg Selinger, MLA for St. Boniface, are the two candidates remaining in the race to replace Doer.

Like Swan, they also resigned from cabinet positions to enter the race.

Doer announced at the end of August that he was stepping down. He has since been named Canada's next ambassador to the U.S.

Party members will choose Ashton or Selinger at a convention on Oct. 16 and 17 in Winnipeg.