August 27, 2010
NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY -- Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty's Aug. 19 cabinet shuffle didn't change much for Northumberland-Quinte West MPP Lou Rinaldi.
For the past seven years, Mr. Rinaldi has represented the citizens of Northumberland-Quinte West at Queen's Park, and according to him, he has always done his best to make decisions based on what he believes the citizens in his riding would want.
Although Mr. Rinaldi was passed over for a cabinet position in last week's shuffle, Mr. Rinaldi says he never got involved in provincial politics for that reason.
"When I first ran for office, I made the decision to represent Northumberland County and Quinte West without any other aspirations in mind," said Mr. Rinaldi. "Whatever the Premier needs of me, I will be there to do it.
"It is a privilege the Premier has to choose his own cabinet and I fully respect that."
Currently, Mr. Rinaldi is parliamentary assistant to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, MPP Rick Bartolucci.
"My daily responsibilities and issues are to my riding," said Mr. Rinaldi. "My role as parliamentary assistant is an honour and is a great opportunity for me and I look forward to working with Rick and being part of that team."
Premier McGuinty's moves, the seventh cabinet shuffle in the past 15 months, saw the replacement of Kingston MPP John Gerretsen as Environment Minister. He was replaced with Revenue Minister John Wilkinson. Former Ottawa mayor Bob Chiarelli, and former Winnipeg mayor Glen Murray were also promoted to ministerial portfolios.
Thornhill Progressive Conservative MPP Peter Shurman said the Premier's cabinet shuffle failed to provide representation for Northumberland-Quinte West, opting instead to appoint two MPPs with what he calls, "a track record of tax-grabs and wasteful spending.
"We can expect the eco-tax to come roaring back as John Wilkinson, who introduced the HST as Minister of Revenue," said Mr. Shurman. "Now, as Environment Minister, will slam the eco-tax through."