A cabinet shuffle at Province House in Halifax.
In a news release, Tuesday, the province says Premier Tim Houston announced changes to his inner circle that will enable the government to focus on energy and resource development.
Houston will take over as Minister of Energy, but will continue as President of the Executive Council, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of Trade.
“I want to turn Nova Scotia into an energy superpower,” said Premier Houston. “Responsible resource development will power our economy for generations, combat poverty and help Nova Scotians earn more money.”
Kim Masland, Minister of Emergency Management, will also take on the role of Minister of Natural Resources.
Barbara Adams will become Minister of Opportunities and Social Development and also maintain her current portfolios.
Scott Armstrong will be the new Attorney General, Minister of Justice, and Minister of Equity and Anti-Racism.
Two members of the legislative assembly will become ministers.
John A. MacDonald will be the Minister of Municipal Affairs while John Lohr will continue as Minister of Finance and Treasury Board.
John White will become the Minister of Housing. Colton LeBlanc will stay as Minister of Growth and Development.
Outgoing ministers Tory Rushton, Becky Druhan and Trevor Boudreau were thanked by Houston for their “ongoing commitment to the people of Nova Scotia”.
They will continue to sit as MLAs.
The changes will take effect immediately after the swearing in ceremony later Tuesday.
