McGuinty appoints strong team to move Ontario forward

Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty
News Release

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QUEEN'S PARK - Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty today introduced the strong team that will keep Ontario moving forward.

"In the election, Ontarians recognized that we have built a strong foundation - and they want us to build upon it," said McGuinty.

"Our new cabinet shares the priorities of Ontarians - their values, their hopes, their aspirations. We will continue to be an activist government on their behalf," said McGuinty. "I know that every member of our team is eager to get to work on behalf of the Ontario families we are privileged to serve."

In the new cabinet, Dwight Duncan returns to the Finance portfolio, a position he also held during the government's first term. Duncan brings his experience, sound judgment and solid leadership to this vital ministry.

Returning as Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Long-Term Care is George Smitherman - a talented, hard-working and gifted member of cabinet who has been called the finest Health Minister in a generation.

Kathleen Wynne, who has been a stalwart defender and tireless promoter of Ontario's publicly funded education system, returns as Minister of Education. Wynne will carry out the government's ambitious plans to improve our schools by reducing class sizes, raising test scores and ensuring every child is able to seize opportunity.

As well, Premier McGuinty will continue to stand up for Ontario here at home - and promote our province on the world stage - as he again assumes the role of Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs.

One third of the members of Ontario's new cabinet are women. Complete biographies are available online at www.ontario.ca/premier.

"My colleagues and I are honoured and humbled by the trust placed in us by the people of Ontario and we are honoured to serve them," said Premier McGuinty. "They have given us a mandate to lead the greatest province in the most blessed country in the world forward, and to do it the Ontario way - by bringing people together."

"Whether in caucus or cabinet, I know that every single member of our government will continue to work hard to keep Ontario moving forward."

"We know that if we strengthen the education and skills, health and prosperity of Ontarians, we can take on the world - and win," said Premier McGuinty. "So we're going to keep working and building and dreaming together to make sure everyone in Ontario can reach their full potential."

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