Tony Wakeham has officially become the 16th premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, marking the return of the Progressive Conservatives to power in the province after nearly a decade. Wakeham led the PC party to a majority win in the provincial election held on October 14.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at Government House in St. John’s. Wakeham’s inaugural cabinet was also sworn in, with several PC Members of the House of Assembly (MHAs) assuming various key portfolios:
– Barry Petten, the MHA for Conception Bay South, is the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Public Procurement, and Deputy Premier.
– Helen Conway Ottenheimer, the MHA for Harbour Main, serves as the Minister of Justice and Public Safety, Attorney General, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Management, Minister of Women and Gender Equality, Minister Responsible for Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Office, and Minister Responsible for the Human Rights Commission.
– Paul Dinn, representing Topsail-Paradise, is appointed as the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development, and Advanced Education and Skills.
– Lela Evans, the MHA for Torngat Mountains, takes on the roles of Minister of Health and Community Services, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, Minister Responsible for N.L. Health Services, Minister of Labrador Affairs and Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation.
– Pleaman Forsey, the MHA for Exploits, is designated as the Minister of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands, and Minister of Crown Lands.
– Loyola O’Driscoll, the MHA for Ferryland, assumes the position of Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture.
The article also mentions the other cabinet members and the recount requests following the recent general election, with the PCs securing a majority with 21 seats.
The Liberals have requested recounts in three closely contested districts, which the PCs have criticized as a waste of time. The article concludes with information on downloading the CBC News app and subscribing to newsletters for updates on Newfoundland and Labrador news.