Local MPP Thompson welcomes new cabinet post

Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson is already working hard in her new post as Minister of Government and Consumer Services. Thompson was moved from the Ministry of Education as part of a new cabinet that was announced on June 20th at Queen’s Park.
 
She refers to her new ministry as “the backbone of government,” and believes her experience as Minister of Education will be an asset to the new position.
 
“The Ministry of Government and Consumer Services is dedicated to a modernization plan that will achieve simpler, faster and better services for the people and businesses of Ontario by embracing digital technology and streamlining services,” Thompson said. “I will continue to build on the priorities for the people of Ontario in the years ahead.”
 
Thompson said she stands by the many achievements realized during her government’s first year in office and improvements made in the Education ministry. “I am proud of what we have accomplished; what we have started; and for where we are heading,” she said.
 
 “When I was appointed to cabinet, I promised that we would carry out a massive consultation with the people – parents, educators, students, employers, and organizations. And we did just that. We had more than 72,000 engagements – the largest consultation for education in the history of Ontario. That feedback will help shape education reform and policy for years to come,” she said.
 
“I am also proud to have brought in changes to today’s curriculum that will help students prepare for their future including highlighting careers in technology, engineering, and agriculture. We also are returning to the basics in math and other academic areas to help students gain the skills they need going forward.”
 
While proud of the steps taken to restore financial stability in the province during the first 12 months, Thompson said there is still much to be done.
 
“We are still paying more than $1 billion in interest every month just to service our provincial debt. That money should be going to front line services in health and education. We have made several tough decisions to regain control of our finances, and more tough decisions will have to be made going forward if we are to return Ontario to the economic engine of this great nation.”
 
While this past year has been a busy one for Thompson, she said she has “never lost nor forgotten my role as MPP for Huron-Bruce. I will always bring our rural lens to the cabinet table.”
 
She also had praise for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Bill Walker who was Minister of Government and Consumer Services and is now moving into Energy. “I want to thank my predecessor and friend Bill Walker for his work to date, and I appreciate his knowledge and experience in this role.”