To the Point Special Edition: March 16, 2025
To the Point Special Edition: March 16, 2025
Premier Doug Ford’s new cabinet was sworn in today, reinforcing the government’s pre-election agenda while sharpening its focus on delivering results. Designed for stability but also built to get things done in the short and medium-term, the team is expected to drive Ontario’s economic competitiveness and resilience—especially as the province braces for potential U.S. tariffs.
While much of the cabinet remains intact, a few notable shifts stand out:
Todd McCarthy – Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks
McCarthy steps into MECP, a file he’s already familiar with, having had signing authority while Minister Khanjin was on maternity leave. With the transition to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for Ontario’s Blue Box program well underway, Ford wants fresh eyes to navigate potential roadblocks.Rob Flack – Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Housing remains a top priority, and Ford wants more aggressive action. Flack’s appointment signals a push for balance—managing the fallout from the Greenbelt while ensuring barriers to homebuilding are dismantled to accelerate housing starts.Stephen Lecce – Minister of Energy and Mines
A major expansion of Lecce’s responsibilities, this move underscores the Premier’s confidence in his ability to advance files and handle high-pressure situations. Expect Lecce to take a strong role in protecting and monetizing Ontario’s economic and natural resources.Paul Calandra – Minister of Education
A seasoned communicator and one of Ford’s more effective political operators, Calandra is expected to bring discipline and stability to the education file.Graham McGregor – Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism
One of the most anticipated moves, McGregor, a high-performing MPP and former Associate Minister of Auto Theft, has been elevated to full cabinet status. A party loyalist with strong caucus relationships, his promotion was a matter of when, not if.
Here’s the complete list of the Premier’s cabinet and their corresponding portfolios.
Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs
Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health
Trevor Jones, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness
Doug Downey, Attorney General
Michael Parsa, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services
Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism
Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security
Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade
Paul Calandra, Minister of Education
Jill Dunlop, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response
Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines
Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks
Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance
Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation and the Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships
Kinga Surma, Minister of Infrastructure
David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development
Natalia Kusendova-Bashta, Minister of Long-Term Care
Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources
George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth
Stephen Crawford, Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement
Andrea Khanjin, Minister of Red Tape Reduction
Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs
Raymond Cho, Minister of Seniors and Accessibility
Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General
Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport
Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming
Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation
Caroline Mulroney, President of the Treasury Board and Minister of Francophone Affairs
Michael Tibollo, Associate Attorney General, as part of the Ministry of the Attorney General
Zee Hamid, Associate Minister of Auto Theft and Bail Reform, as part of the Ministry of the Solicitor General
Sam Oosterhoff, Associate Minister of Energy-Intensive Industries, as part of the Ministry of Energy and Mines
Kevin Holland, Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products, as part of the Ministry of Natural Resources
Graydon Smith, Associate Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, as part of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Vijay Thanigasalam, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, as part of the Ministry of Health
Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business, as part of the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade
Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity, as part of the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services
With Ford’s new cabinet sworn in, the government is setting the course for the months ahead. From economic policy to infrastructure and regulatory shifts, these ministers will be shaping decisions that matter to our clients. We’re excited to engage Ministers and their staff to advocate and navigate government on your behalf.
ABOUT TO THE POINT
To the Point – ONpoint Strategy Group's weekly roundup – cuts through the noise to deliver insight and analysis of key federal, provincial, and municipal stories shaping Canada's policy and political landscape. Designed for decision-makers and thought leaders, this newsletter is your go-to resource for staying ahead. Share these trusted insights with your network to spark meaningful conversations. Simply hit forward or follow ONpoint Strategy Group on X and LinkedIn to spread these valuable perspectives."
About ONpoint Strategy Group:
ONpoint Strategy Group is all about helping clients make an impact where it counts. Specializing in government relations and strategic execution, our team—Nico Fidani-Diker, Mariana Di Rezze, Krystle Caputo, David Morgado, Christopher Mourtos, Ellen Gouchman, Brandon Falcone, and Mike Britton—works closely with clients to navigate complex political landscapes and bring their goals to life. With a practical, results-driven approach, we build strong relationships, craft winning strategies, and make sure every step brings clients closer to meaningful outcomes. We’re passionate about making sure our clients are heard, supported, and positioned for success.