OTTAWA – Federal Fisheries Minister Keith Ashfield has survived a heart attack and will be temporary replaced by Gail Shea, the minister for national revenue.

The Prime Minister’s Office abruptly announced the change today with no further word on Ashfield’s condition, except to say he’s expected back after recovery.

Ashfield, 60, is the MP for Fredericton and a former minister in the Bernard Lord government.

He was appointed fisheries minister in May 2011.

A source said Ashfield was “resting comfortably” following his heart attack.