MacKinnon joins Trudeau’s cabinet, replacing O’Regan

Taylor Clark

Three-term Liberal MP for Gatineau Steven MacKinnon has been adjusting to his new role as the Minister of Labour and Seniors since being appointed to the position in mid-July.

“I’ve had the pleasure of meeting my new team and immersing myself in my new duties,” MacKinnon wrote to Facebook. “Even with this new title, my commitments to the riding of Gatineau and all its citizens remains unchanged. I will continue to put your interests first when working with my cabinet colleagues. This is an important step for our riding, and I pledge to give the best of myself in this new role.”

MacKinnon participated in a swearing-in ceremony on July 19 alongside Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Governor General Mary Simon at Rideau Hall.

The change to the cabinet came after the previous minister Seamus O’Regan announced his resignation on July 18, citing family reasons. In a statement shared via X, O’Regan said he would not seek re-election but intended to continue to serve as the MP for St. John’s South-Mount Pearl until the next general election.

The MP for Gatineau joined the cabinet as the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons while Karina Gould was away on parental leave. In the role, MacKinnon “accumulated a wealth of experience building consensus and working with partners to pass legislation,” read a statement from Trudeau’s office.

“He has advanced progress on health care, affordable housing, organized labour, and climate action – and has steered the government’s work to make life better for Canadians.”

MacKinnon previously served as the Liberal’s Chief Government Whip prior to his role as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Services and Procurement.

Photo caption: In a swearing-in ceremony alongside Governor General Mary Simon, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Deputy Clerk of the Privy Council and Associate Secretary to the Cabinet Christiane Fox, MP for Gatineau Steven MacKinnon replaces former Minister of Labour and Seniors Seamus O’Regan.

Photo credit: Steven MacKinnon Facebook Page