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Restoring MNR morale a high priority for Ramsay

New Natural Resources Minister David Ramsay says freeing his employees to talk--and boosting their morale—has become a “very high” priority. In an interview with baytoday.
New Natural Resources Minister David Ramsay says freeing his employees to talk--and boosting their morale—has become a “very high” priority.

In an interview with baytoday.ca Sunday, Ramsay acknowledged his new portfolio has fallen on hard times in terms of public perception, a factor leading to poor employee morale.

“Quite frankly,” Ramsay said, “the ministry has taken a kicking over the last eight and a half years and our employees deserve better, and it is my intention to bring that to them.”

Ramsay, pictured here at Jack Garland Airport, said he’s already had “discussions” with his deputy ministers on the matter, and will be touring MNR facilities and offices throughout the province before the legislature resumes next month.

“I really want to communicate to the staff that they have a minister who is very proud of the ministry and the employees,” Ramsay said.

Emancipate ministry employees
Tied in with the issue, Ramsay said, has been the restrictions placed by the previous government on area office employees in their dealings with the media.

Reporters contacting MNR offices for information have been told employees had to fill out forms outlining media questions and responses to inquiries.

Again, Ramsay said, he’s spoken to his deputies about the topic.

“I think the MNR has a tremendous story to tell about the services it provides to the people of Ontario,” Ramsay said, “and I want to emancipate ministry employees to tell that story.”

Doesn't have to be about me
The situation at the ministry had gotten “all political” and too focused on the minister, Ramsay said.
But that’s going to change.

“I don’t think I have to be the spokesman for the MNR, it doesn’t have to be about me, about the minister taking credit for everything that’s done,” Ramsay said.

“We have 3,600 well-qualified hard working people who provide incredible service to the people of Ontario, and when there’s a great story to tell, there’s no reason why they can’t tell it.”

Ramsay said he has a much different philosophy then that of a previous Tory government.

Mike Harris said he wasn’t there to be the government but to change the government,” Ramsay said.

“Well I believe I am here to be the government. I’m proud of public service, proud of the team I have, and they should be able to show off the wonderful work they’re doing and get the credit for it.”

MNR biologist Dave Fluri said he was “glad to hear” Ramsay’s message.

“And I congratulate the minister on his appointment.”