Redford Announces New Cabinet

Leaner Cabinet Brings Changes in Several Portfolios.

Premier Alison Redford will be implementing her mandate with a slightly leaner Executive Council after yesterday’s unveiling of her Cabinet. Although several changes were expected given the electoral defeat of a handful of PC MLAs in last month’s election, there were nonetheless several surprises.

Rookie MLA Ken Hughes, perhaps best known for his role as Chair of the Alberta Health Services superboard, replaced the defeated Ted Morton in the province’s high-profile Energy portfolio.

Doug Horner retained his role as Treasury Board President, but also will be taking on the Finance portfolio.

“This restructuring is about achieving our goals and aligning our workforce with the priorities of this government,” Redford said.

“This new Cabinet structure allows us to focus on the things that matter most to Albertans – a strong fiscal framework, caring for our most vulnerable citizens, promoting our resources, and solid consultation processes that ensure Albertans are heard,” the Premier continued.

“We have a good mix of new and experienced MLAs. This is a team that is committed to the positive, constructive plan that we put forward during the election campaign that will help to build Albertans’ future,” she concluded.

Also significant is the role of Deputy Premier, to be carried out by former Education Minister Thomas Lukaszuk. Breaking with tradition, he will not be responsible for a Ministry.

The new Cabinet represents a shift for residents of Fort Saskatchewan, who for the first time since 2004, will not have their MLA represented in Cabinet.