Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston made significant changes to his cabinet on Tuesday, surprising many. Three ministers were replaced, two new members were added, and various roles were reassigned, according to a news release.
Energy Minister Trevor Boudreau, Natural Resources Minister Tory Rushton, and Justice Minister Becky Druhan were all removed from their cabinet positions. Scott Armstrong will now oversee the justice portfolio and the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism. Emergency Management Minister Kim Masland will take on the additional responsibility of natural resources, while Premier Houston will personally handle the energy portfolio, particularly focusing on offshore wind and critical mineral development.
Barbara Adams, who is currently the deputy premier and minister of seniors and long-term care, will now also manage the opportunities and social development portfolio previously held by Armstrong. John A. MacDonald, MLA for Hants East, will take over as the new municipal affairs minister, relieving Finance Minister John Lohr of that duty.
As the province grapples with a projected $1.2 billion deficit, Lohr will be occupied with preparing the 2026-27 provincial budget. Another addition to the cabinet is John White, MLA for Glace Bay-Dominion, who will now be responsible for housing matters. Although housing will not have its own department, White’s appointment aims to address ongoing criticism regarding the government’s lack of a dedicated focus on housing amidst a persistent housing crisis.
The changes were formalized in a private ceremony on Tuesday.