Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe Reshuffles Cabinet, Adds New Ministers

The Saskatchewan government undertook a significant cabinet reshuffle on December 7, 2023, announcing the appointment of five new ministers and the removal of three others. This move, intended to enhance the government’s operational effectiveness, was confirmed by Premier Scott Moe during a ceremony at Government House. The cabinet’s size will expand from 16 to 18 members, a change designed to better distribute responsibilities among ministers.

In his remarks to the media, Moe emphasized the importance of enriching the cabinet’s experience, stating, “We want to continue to bring people into cabinet, but then also have that broader experience across the governing caucus.” He clarified that the reshuffle aims to “build capacity” rather than reflect on the competence of outgoing ministers.

Key Changes in Cabinet Composition

The three ministers departing their cabinet roles are Travis Keisig, former Minister of Environment; Colleen Young, previously Minister of Energy and Resources; and Daryl Harrison, who held the positions of Minister of Agriculture, Minister Responsible for Crop Insurance, and Minister of the Saskatchewan Water Agency. All three will continue their service as legislative committee chairs.

Joining the cabinet for the first time are Chris Beaudry as Minister of Energy and Resources, Darlene Rowden as Minister of Environment, Kim Gartner as Minister of Highways, and Sean Wilson as Minister of SaskBuilds. These individuals were all elected to the Sask. Party government during the provincial election held in the fall of 2023. Additionally, Mike Weger takes on a newly defined role as Minister of Community Safety, overseeing policing, corrections, and public safety, which has been rebranded from its previous title.

Weger will manage the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency, which oversees emergency management, including wildfire responses, a crucial role given the province’s recent record-setting wildfire season. Tim McLeod, who previously held the public safety portfolio, will retain his role as Minister of Justice and Attorney General.

Continuity and New Roles for Existing Ministers

As part of the reshuffle, David Marit will return to his previous position as Minister of Agriculture after serving as Minister of Highways, SaskBuilds, and the Global Transportation Hub. He replaces Harrison, who has held the agriculture role for just over a year.

Several ministers will retain their current portfolios, including Jim Reiter as Minister of Finance and Deputy Premier, Everett Hindley as Minister of Education, and Jeremy Cockrill as Minister of Health. Additionally, some ministers are taking on extra responsibilities; for example, Ken Cheveldayoff will also serve as Minister of Labour Relations, while Eric Schmalz will add the role of Minister of Immigration and Career Training to his existing responsibilities.

In response to the cabinet changes, NDP Opposition Leader Carla Beck expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of the reshuffle. Speaking at a news conference in Saskatoon, she noted, “I do think we need change, but I don’t think we’re going to get it from a cabinet shuffle.” Beck’s comments highlight ongoing concerns within the opposition regarding the government’s handling of issues such as health care and education.

This cabinet reshuffle reflects the Saskatchewan government’s efforts to adapt and respond to the evolving needs of its constituents while reinforcing its commitment to effective governance.