Ontario’s Ministry of Rural Affairs is expanding its reach with the addition of two parliamentary assistants, a move Minister Lisa Thompson says will allow her growing portfolio to better serve rural communities across the province.
Premier Doug Ford has appointed MPPs Steve Pinsonneault (Lambton-Kent-Middlesex) and Bob Bailey (Sarnia-Lambton) to assist the MPP for Huron-Bruce as her ministry gears up for a busy legislative and consultation agenda.
"This really is a strong signal that rural Ontario matters," Thompson says. "We have a significant amount of work to do over the coming weeks and months, and I’ve worked with both gentlemen in the past. I can't wait to hit the ground running."
Thompson says the appointments bring both experience and regional familiarity to her office, which she believes will be key to amplifying the voices of rural Ontarians.
"Both MPP Bob Bailey and MPP Steve Pinsonneault bring a wealth of experience to the Ministry of Rural Affairs," she said. "It’s going to allow us to divide and conquer, if you will."
The added support comes at a pivotal time. She says the ministry is preparing for a busy year of legislative research, consultations, and program development.
"We're going to be researching and consulting on legislation to further support the growth of the Ministry of Rural Affairs," she said. "Having Bob and Steve onboard gives us the horsepower we need to deliver real results for rural Ontario."
The Legislature will resume on Monday, April 14, 2025, to start the 44th session of Parliament.