![Minister Greg Rickford announcing funding for the next stage of the Thunder Bay Event Centre.](https://www.netnewsledger.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Minister-Rickford.jpg)
Harper Government Demonstrates Importance of Resources
OTTAWA – Kenora MP Greg Rickford is continuing the rise in the Conservative Government. Minister Rickford is now the Minister of Natural Resources, receiving a promotion from Prime Minister Harper in his cabinet shuffle following the decision by Jim Flaherty to step down from cabinet.
Perhaps demonstrating the importance of the natural resources portfolio, former Minister of Natural Resources Joe Oliver is now the Finance Minister.
Minister Rickford has been placed in charge of the Ring of Fire by Prime Minister Harper when he was the Minister of Science and Technology.
![Minister Rickford with Prime Minister Harper at Rideau Hall as new Minister of Natural Resources](https://www.netnewsledger.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Minister-Rickford-swear-in-in-Rideau-Hall.jpg)
“Our Government remains focused on creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity for all Canadians. Mr. Oliver, Mr. Rickford and Mr. Holder bring with them a wealth of skills, knowledge and experience, and I am confident that they will deliver results and provide strong leadership in these important portfolios,” stated the Prime Minister.
Minister Rickford Talks Mining in Thunder Bay
Rickford has put a definite Northern Ontario stamp on his tenure in Cabinet, bringing together his experience as a Lawyer, Nurse and his time spent in many Northern Communities to the forefront of his time in Government.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced the following changes to the Ministry at a swearing-in ceremony at Rideau Hall:
The Honourable Joe Oliver, as Minister of Finance, will continue the Government’s work to create jobs, strengthen the Canadian economy and balance the budget by 2015.
The Honourable Greg Rickford, as Minister of Natural Resources, will continue the Government’s efforts to promote prosperity through the country’s abundant natural resources. He will continue his responsibilities for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario.
The Honourable Ed Holder, as Minister of State (Science and Technology), will continue the Government’s leadership in science and technology and helping Canadian businesses remain competitive.
– See more at: http://pm.gc.ca/eng/news/2014/03/19/pm-announces-changes-ministry#sthash.YmPTOqLM.dpuf