THUNDER BAY – Politics – Rick Bartolucci has announced his departure from cabinet in the Ontario government.

Premier Dalton McGuinty stated, “One of the great pleasures of being Premier is to be able to truly experience northern Ontario — to feel the warmth of its people, see the beauty of its environment and be deeply impressed by the potential of its businesses, workers and economy. And I feel especially fortunate that Rick Bartolucci has shared with me his love for the region, his confidence in its future and pride in all the North contributes to Ontario”.

Rick Bartolucci steps down

“As a Minister and Chair of Cabinet, Rick’s contributions have benefited Ontarians right across our province. His leadership has helped make Ontario’s mining industry the Canadian leader in exploration and production. He helped make our communities safer, as Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services, and stronger, as Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. Part of Rick’s enduring legacy is his private member’s bill — the Police Memorials Act — which gives the Ontario Legislature the authority to name highway bridges and other structures in memory of fallen police officers. I wish Rick all the best as he continues representing his constituents in the Legislature and sharing his experience and expertise with fellow MPPs.” 

PC MPP and Critic for the MNDM stated, “I want to congratulate Minister Bartolucci on his retirement from cabinet.  I look forward to meeting with the new Minister of Northern Development and Mines at the earliest opportunity to discuss the future of Ontario Northland and other issues vital to Nipissing and Northern Ontario.”