Premier Doug Ford has shuffled his cabinet as Ontario prepares for what the government says could be a long trade fight with the United States.
Ford announced the changes Thursday, saying the renewed cabinet will focus on protecting Ontario workers and businesses while making the province’s economy more competitive and self-reliant.
The shuffle comes as U.S. President Donald Trump continues to introduce tariffs and other trade measures affecting Canada.
“Ontario won’t back down,” Ford said, adding the province is “preparing for the long haul.”
Several senior ministers remain in familiar positions. Sylvia Jones continues as Deputy Premier and Health Minister, Peter Bethlenfalvy remains Finance Minister, Stephen Lecce stays at Energy and Mines, and Vic Fedeli continues as Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade.
There are some notable changes. Paul Calandra becomes Education Minister and Trevor Jones becomes Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.
Former Olympic rower Brian Saunderson has been named Minister of Sport.
The government is also creating a new Associate Minister of Artificial Intelligence Adoption position, with Vijay Thanigasalam taking on the role. The province says the position will focus on helping Ontario businesses adopt AI, improve productivity and prepare workers for jobs affected by the technology.
Local MPP Rob Flack remains as Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
Ford says his cabinet will also focus on speeding up major projects, attracting investment, cutting red tape and lowering costs as Ontario responds to ongoing U.S. trade pressures.
