N.W.T. premier Bob McLeod names new cabinet roles

Northwest Territories premier Bob McLeod announced portfolios for cabinet Monday afternoon, but kept one high-profile department for himself. 

In addition to the premier's job, McLeod will take on the high-profile Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment. McLeod made boosting economic growth a key element of his recent re-election campaign.

McLeod will also serve as Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations, and as the Minister Responsible for the Public Utilities Board.

"I am pleased to welcome the new and returning Ministers selected by the Legislative Assembly," McLeod said in a news release. "We have a good mix of experience and enthusiasm on the new cabinet and all ministers are committed to working hard on behalf of N.W.T. residents."

Only two other ministers are back in cabinet. Robert C. McLeod takes over as finance minister, deputy premier, Minister of Lands, and Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs.

Glen Abernethy, who was defeated by Bob McLeod for the premier's job last week, reprises his role as health and social services minister and human resources minister. He will also serve as government house leader and as the Minister Responsible for Seniors and Minister Responsible for People with Disabilities.

Inuvik MLA Alfred Moses joins cabinet for the first time as Minister of Education, Culture and Employment and Minister Responsible for Youth.

New faces

Three first-time MLAs are also in cabinet:

• Caroline Cochrane as Minister Responsible for the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation, Minister of Public Works and Services, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women,
• Wally Schumann as Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, Minister of Transportation,
• Louis Sebert as Minister of Justice, Minister Responsible for the Northwest Territories Power Corporation, Minister Responsible for the Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission.

McLeod also assigned three ministers additional responsibilities. Robert C. McLeod will take on "lead responsibility for infrastructure," Cochrane is tasked with addressing homelessness, and Louis Siebert is Minister Responsible for Public Engagement and Transparency.

The portfolio assignments go into effect Wednesday. The Legislative Assembly returns to session in February.