Two locals MPPs promoted in Wynne’s cabinet shuffle

A cabinet shuffle has made for some big promotions for a pair of MPPs in Waterloo Region.

Cambridge MPP Kathryn McGarry is now in charge of the Ministry of Transportation. In a statement, she says she’s honoured to keep on serving her community, and province in that new role.

McGarry adds that she’s eager to get to work – making sure Ontario keeps on getting the roadways, highways, and public transit it needs.

Up to today, she’s been the Minister of Natural Resources.

Another big change for Kitchener-Centre MPP Daiene Vernile – as she’s now moved up to Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sport.

In a statement, Vernile says she’s honoured and humbled by the appointment.

“Culture and the arts, tourism, and sports not only help us to celebrate who we are as Ontarians, but these sectors employ thousands of hard working people. I look forward to celebrating and advancing initiatives within this Ministry, while continuing to serve the people of Kitchener Centre.”

Deputy Premier and Advanced Education Minister Deb Matthews, Treasury Board President Liz Sandals and Economic Development Minister Brad Duguid have all said they’re not running in the June election, and Wynne is filling those jobs with politicians who are up for re-election.

Mitzie Hunter moves from education minister to become minister of advanced education, Eleanor McMahon leaves her role as tourism, culture and sport minister to lead the treasury board, and Steven Del Duca was shuffled from transportation to economic development.

Indira Naidoo-Harris, who had been the status of women minister and minister responsible for early years and child care, will fill the job of education minister, while keeping her early years and child care responsibilities.