Manitoba’s new premier spoke to the media for the first time in the new role today (Wed).
Kelvin Goertzen becomes Manitoba’s 23rd premier, after Brian Pallister resigned from the role.
Goertzen thanked Pallister for his work in politics in Manitoba.
“For three decades, Mr. Pallister has served in challenging roles provincially and in Canada. The challenges have never been greater than over the last 18 months, and I know that’s taken a toll on his family, I saw that personally.” Goertzen said.
Goertzen will be premier for the next 60 days, after which the Progressive Conservatives caucus will elected a new leader on October 30.
He acknowledged that his time as premier will be brief and that many will see him as just a caretaker.
“I also know that these are times that will still require significant decisions, and I will rely upon my PC Caucus colleagues…to assist in these decisions.” Goertzen said.
Goertzen adds that Manitobans can expect him to be a premier who is willing to hear the opinions of many different groups and organizations.
“I have no doubt that when I open those doors to many different groups and organizations in the time that I have, some will have constructive criticism, some will have good ideas, some will have complaints, and some will have a strong vision of the future. For me, I intend to be quick to listen and slow to speak.”
New Deputy Premier, other changes made
After being sworn in, Goertzen appointed his deputy premier.
Families Minister Rochelle Squires will take the role, having first been elected in 2016 as an MLA for Riel.
Squires has also served in a number of other roles, including Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage, and Minister responsible for Status Women and Francophone Affairs.
Other changes changes have been made to several cabinet roles and responsibilities including:
• Squires and Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler will join the Priorities and Planning Committee of Cabinet;
• Crown Services Minister Jeff Wharton will become the chair of the Regulatory Accountability Committee of Cabinet and Justice Minister Cameron Friesen will join the committee as vice-chair; and
• Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations Minister Alan Lagimodiere will join the Gender-Based Violence Committee of Cabinet.
These changes are effective immediately.
