In his first cabinet shuffle since the 2019 election, Premier Kenney moved Justice Minister and Solicitor General Doug Schweitzer to the newly-created Ministry of Jobs, Economy and Innovation, which replaces Economic Development, Trade and Tourism. The change is expected to allow for a renewed focus on jobs and the economy.
Schweitzer has been given a clear mandate to implement Alberta’s economic recovery plan, which includes working on labour market reforms and training programs as well as launching the new Invest Alberta Agency to promote the province internationally.
Municipal Affairs Minister Kaycee Madu took over the justice portfolio from Schweitzer and is the first Black Canadian Minister of Justice. Madu has been tasked with continuing criminal justice reforms and will be responsible for the ongoing review of the Police Act, as well as electoral reforms Kenney has promised.
Grande Prairie MLA Tracy Allard is the new minister of Municipal Affairs. She will be responsible for publishing a report card on the fiscal performances of Alberta municipalities and how they compare to others across the country. The goal is to challenge municipal governments across Alberta to work with the province to create jobs and growth, all while keeping taxes low, reducing red tape to increase economic growth and competitiveness.
The CPA welcomes the governments emphasis innovation and training and will be seeking opportunities to have further discussions with Minister Schweitzer and his cabinet colleagues.