Premier Dalton McGuinty Shuffles Cabinet
Wants To Refocus Government On Economic Issues
The personnel shift affects the responsibilities of six ministers. Despite the recent controversy over e-health, David Caplan is still in charge of the health portfolio. Other media reports indicate the shuffle was necessary because of Michael Bryant’s resignation.
Finance Portfolio Divided, Industry & Trade Merged
Premier McGuinty made changes to the structure of his cabinet. He divided the Ministry of Finance by taking away revenue from it. He put John Wilkinson in charge, and gave him the responsibility of implementing the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) on July 1st of 2010. This is considered to be the biggest challenge for McGuinty as Ontarians will see new taxes on items that have never been taxed.
Sandra Pupatello was given responsibility for a combined portfolio of Trade and Economic Development. Another minister with added responsibilities is John Milloy. Milloy is Minister of Training, Colleges, and Universities now has Research and Innovation added to his portfolio. In comments published in the Waterloo Record he realized it would be a big job: “It’s going to be a big responsibility to take on two portfolios.” He added he was pleased they were complimentary to each other.
Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle has forestry added to his jurisdiction. This was previously under the Ministry of Natural Resources. Switching jobs are Ted McMeekin of Government Services, and Harinder Takhar of Consumer Services.
In remarks published by News1130, McGuinty says the shuffle was necessary to refocus his government: “All the changes announced today will help sharpen our economic focus and help our government deliver on its plan for a better more competitive Ontario.” His comments continued using Pupatello as an example, saying her job would be easier at a combined ministry of Trade and Economic Development.
Opposition Reacts to Cabinet Shuffle, as Caplan Keeps His Job
Health Minister David Caplan keeps his position in cabinet despite the controversy that cause the resignation of eHealth’s top official. This has opposition reacting angrily to the cabinet shuffle.
In comments published by News1130, interim Progressive Conservative (PC) Leader Bob Runciman called the lack of movement disheartening: “It’s disappointing he hasn’t moved Caplan, but from a political perspective it’s probably better for us because it sends out all the wrong messages about his government and the culture of entitlement.”
In the same article, New Democratic Party (NDP) Leader Andrea Horwath agrees, adding her party was looking for movement in the Health File “The leadership we were looking for was to make that move, and he didn’t make it.”
McGuinty has recently apologized for the scandal at eHealth, but is standing by David Caplan.
Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty
|
What do you think about this article?
More in Politics & Society
Latest Articles