TORONTO — Ontario Premier Doug Ford has announced a new cabinet, assembling an experienced team to address economic challenges and safeguard the province against escalating trade tensions with the United States. The newly appointed Executive Council is tasked with advancing the government’s mandate to foster economic resilience, develop key industries, and support Ontario workers and businesses.
“As Ontario faces one of the greatest challenges in our history, workers and families are counting on us to stand up for their jobs and wellbeing,” Ford stated. “Our government will double down on our plan to build, train and re-skill workers for better jobs and bigger paycheques, tear down internal trade barriers, retool companies for new customers in new markets, attract more investments and cut through red tape to develop our vast natural resources, including critical minerals in the Ring of Fire. No matter what, we will protect Ontario.”
Key Appointments in the New Cabinet
Ford’s cabinet features several returning ministers in key portfolios, along with new appointments reflecting the government’s priorities. Among the major roles:
- Doug Ford remains Premier and takes on the additional role of Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs.
- Sylvia Jones continues as Deputy Premier and Minister of Health.
- Vic Fedeli retains his post as Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation, and Trade.
- Paul Calandra takes over as Minister of Education.
- Stephen Lecce moves to Minister of Energy and Mines.
- Rob Flack is appointed Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
- Prabmeet Sarkaria assumes the role of Minister of Transportation.
- Stan Cho is named Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Gaming.
The cabinet also includes multiple associate ministers, including Zee Hamid as Associate Minister of Auto Theft and Bail Reform and Sam Oosterhoff as Associate Minister of Energy-Intensive Industries.
Policy Focus and Structural Changes
The reshuffled cabinet comes as Ontario navigates economic uncertainty due to U.S. trade policies. Ford’s government has vowed to ramp up investment in workforce development, infrastructure, and key industries such as mining, agriculture, and natural resources.
Several ministries have been restructured to streamline operations:
- The Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks will now oversee conservation authorities.
- The Minister of Energy and Mines and the Associate Minister of Energy-Intensive Industries will take on responsibility for broadband expansion and connectivity.
Economic and Political Context
This cabinet overhaul underscores Ford’s emphasis on strengthening Ontario’s economy amid global pressures. The inclusion of new ministries such as Auto Theft and Bail Reform signals a focus on public safety, while the expanded role of the Minister of Energy and Mines aligns with efforts to leverage Ontario’s critical mineral deposits for industrial growth.
With this revamped team, Premier Ford’s government aims to deliver on its economic strategy and maintain Ontario’s competitiveness in the face of evolving trade dynamics. The new cabinet will be responsible for implementing policies that protect jobs, attract investment, and drive growth across the province.
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