Premier Kathleen Wynne is shuffling her cabinet to fill vacancies left by ministers who are not seeking re-election in June, the Star has learned.With the looming retirement of key ministers Brad Duguid, Deb Matthews and Liz Sandals, Wynne will elevate three promising backbenchers to her executive council on Wednesday as part of a larger shuffle.In a statement, Wynne said she was “thrilled” to shake up her cabinet and add some new blood.Headed into cabinet as the Liberals gird for a tight election on June 7 are Harinder Malhi (Brampton-Springdale), Nathalie Des Rosiers (Ottawa-Vanier), and Daiene Vernile (Kitchener-Centre). “The knowledge and skills they bring to these roles will be crucial as we continue our work to create more fairness and opportunity for the people of Ontario,” the premier said.“In a changing economy, our plan is about making sure everyone has a fair shot at getting ahead,” she said.“That’s why it is also important to me that this updated cabinet continues to reflect both the diversity and the geography of our province,” Wynne said.Being promoted within cabinet are: Indira Naidoo-Harris (Halton), who becomes education minister as well as continuing as minister for early years and child care;Steven Del Duca (Vaughan), who transfers from transportation to Duguid’s former post at economic development and growth;Eleanor McMahon (Burlington), who succeeds Sandals as president of the treasury board after serving as minister of tourism, culture and sport.Kathryn McGarry (Cambridge), who was minister of natural resources, moves to transportation.To replace Matthews — who was also deputy premier, though that largely ceremonial post will not be filled — Mitzie Hunter graduates from education minister to minister of advanced education and skills development.Hunter (Scarborough-Guildwood) will be responsible for selling the government’s plan that enables students from low- and ...
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