Premier Kathleen Wynne announced changes today to her cabinet, following the resignation of Glen Murray as Minister of the Environment and Climate Change.

Chris Ballard moves from Minister of Housing and Minister Responsible for the Poverty Reduction Strategy to become the new Minister of the Environment and Climate Change, leading Ontario’s fight against climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and overseeing the province’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

Peter Milczyn, MPP for Etobicoke-Lakeshore, is promoted to cabinet, appointed as the new Minister of Housing. He will also take over as Minister Responsible for the Poverty Reduction Strategy. In these roles, Milczyn will oversee and build on Ontario’s Fair Housing Plan, making sure that people across Ontario are able to find a safe, affordable home. He will also work alongside Helena Jaczek, Minister of Community and Social Services, on implementing Ontario’s Basic Income Pilot and supporting people in Ontario to get ahead, find income security and break the cycle of poverty, particularly for children and youth. 

In addition, the Office of Francophone Affairs for Ontario will become a standalone ministry, reflecting the importance of Ontario’s Francophone population to the province’s economic prosperity and its diverse, vibrant cultural fabric. Marie-France Lalonde will continue in her role as Minister of Francophone Affairs and Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services.

Glen Murray will remain as MPP for Toronto Centre.

The changes announced today maintain the size of Ontario’s cabinet at 29 ministers. A swearing-in ceremony was held at Queen’s Park this morning.