OTTAWA -Bernard Valcourt is the new Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development. The announcement was made this morning by the Prime Minister who also announced a minor shake-up of responsibilities. While some in Northwestern Ontario had speculated that Kenora MP Greg Rickford might be promoted, that did not happen.

New Minister for Aboriginal Affairs

“The Government remains focused on creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity across Canada, including in our Aboriginal communities,” said the Prime Minister. “Mr. Valcourt brings considerable and wide-ranging Cabinet experience to his new role and I am confident Ms. Findlay will contribute to the enhancement of our Armed Forces while delivering value for money to Canadian taxpayers.”

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced the following changes to the Ministry at a private swearing-in ceremony at Rideau Hall:

“The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, as Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, will continue the Government’s work to advance dialogue on Aboriginal issues and take achievable steps that will provide better education and economic outcomes for Aboriginal peoples across Canada.

“The Honourable Kerry-Lynne D. Findlay, as Associate Minister of National Defence, will support the Minister of National Defence on a variety of matters to fulfil the Government’s commitments to the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces and to ensure that value-for-money principles remain at the core of national defence administration.

“The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue, has been appointed Minister for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).

“The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, will assume responsibility for La Francophonie”.