THUNDER BAY – Canada has a new federal government and today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau unveiled the new federal cabinet that will lead his government forward. The new Liberal Government is moving to return to the House of Commons in early December.
Thunder Bay Superior North MP Patty Hajdu will serve in the Trudeau Administration as Canada’s Minister for the Status of Women. The complete cabinet includes a large number of women in key positions. “It is 2015”, stated the Prime Minister when asked why his goal of setting gender priority was key part of putting his cabinet together.
Prime Minister Trudeau added, “Over the course of the campaign, we promised you a government that will bring real change – in both the things we do and the way we do them. We will immediately start implementing our plan for a strong and growing middle class. On Election Day, you sent a clear message, and you rightly expect us to fulfill our promises.”
Carolyn Bennett will head the newly named department of Indigenous Affairs and Northern Development.
The Prime Minister says, “It is also time for a renewed, Nation-to-Nation relationship with Indigenous Peoples, one based on a recognition of rights, respect, co-operation, and partnership. Not only is this the right thing to do, but it is also a sure path to economic growth.”
The Prime Minister issued a statement after swearing in his new cabinet.
“Canadians from all across this country sent a message that it is time for real change, and I am deeply honoured by the faith they have placed in my team and me. Canadians chose a positive and optimistic plan for the future, and we will immediately begin implementing our plan for a strong middle class.
“Today we have the pleasure of introducing the team of extraordinary Canadians who will serve in the new Ministry. This strong, diverse, and experienced team will serve all Canadians, and for the first time in our country’s history, there will be an equal number of women and men around the Cabinet table.
“Canadians expect to see their values and priorities reflected in their government, and we have listened closely to them. Canadians told us what kind of government they want, and we built the plan to make it happen.
“We are committed to investing in our economy, strengthening the middle class, and helping those working hard to join it. We will invest in job creation and broad-based prosperity to ensure every Canadian has a real and fair chance to succeed.
“We will shine more light on government to ensure it remains focused on the people it is meant to serve. Openness and transparency will be our constant companions, and we will work to restore Canadians’ trust in their government and in our democracy. We are committed to the highest ethical standards and applying the utmost care in the handling of public funds.”
Minister Patty Hajdu
From her position as Executive Director at Shelter House, Minister Hajdu is well known across the city and region. She is completing her Master of Public Administration degree at the University of Victoria. Hajdu is also the author and was a key member of the Implementation Panel for the Thunder Bay Drug Strategy.
In addition, she was on the Community Advisory Board for the Homelessness Partnering Strategy.
