Forestry mandate leaves Ministry of Natural Resources

In a move designed to benefit Northern Ontario, Premier Dalton McGuinty has pulled forestry out of its longtime home, the Ministry of Natural Resources.

Forestry responsibilities move to the retitled Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry.

Its minister is Thunder Bay-Superior North MPP Michael Gravelle.

The shift is part of a cabinet shuffle announced today by McGuinty.

Details follow in a news release issued by the Office of the Premier:

************************* Cabinet shuffle sharpens economic focus

Ontario's cabinet is changing to help make the province more competitive, create jobs and strengthen our economy.

Sandra Pupatello becomes the Minister of Economic Development and Trade.

The new ministry also assumes responsibility for small business.

John Wilkinson's new position will be the Minister of Revenue.

He will oversee the implementation of Ontario's single sales tax, which will take effect July 1, 2010, and will make our province more attractive to business.

John Milloy remains Minister of Training, College and Universities.

John will also become minister for the separate Ministry of Research and Innovation.

Michael Gravelle will lead the new Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry.

Responsibility for forestry moves from the Ministry of Natural Resources in recognition of the important role the industry plays in Ontario's Northern communities.

Harinder Takhar will be the new Minister of Government Services.

His duties will include providing the information, services and supports that our people and businesses need to be competitive.

Ted McMeekin becomes the Minister of Consumer Services. His role will be to protect Ontarians and their families as an advocate for consumers.

Quick facts Ontario will move to a single sales tax beginning July 1, 2010 to further strengthen Ontario's economy and lower our tax rate on new business investment.

In 2007, Ontario exported $330.8 billion in goods (international and domestic).

Ontario's cabinet has 27 members.

Learn more

See a full list of the Ontario cabinet here.

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