Newmarket-Aurora MPP Dawn Gallagher Murphy has a new ministry of focus as she has been shuffled from health to natural resources and forestry.
As part of a wider parliamentary shuffle March 28, Gallagher Murphy is moving from parliamentary assistant to the minister of health. Now, she will serve the same role for Graydon Smith, minister of natural resources and forestry.
Gallagher Murphy said she is thrilled about the role.
"Looking forward to embarking on this new journey to protect biodiversity & promote economic opportunities in Ontario," she said.
Gallagher Murphy received the role of parliamentary assistant to the minister of health in June 2022, just a couple of weeks after winning a seat in the election. Assistants help ministers with legislative matters and get a pay bump.
“Parliamentary assistants play a critical role in delivering on our plan to rebuild Ontario’s economy,” Premier Doug Ford said of the shuffle. “With today’s announcement, I’m thrilled to recognize and showcase our team’s in-depth experience, which will help us continue to get it done for the people of Ontario.”
Gallagher Murphy gained the role after working as constituency manager for the riding’s previous MPP, Christine Elliott, who was minister of health. Gallagher Murphy has spoken repeatedly about advocating for the Southlake Regional Health Centre.
"It was an honour to serve with the honourable Minister Jones and my fellow parliamentary assistant to the Minister, MPP Robin Martin, since I was elected," Gallagher Murphy said. "Ontario is building a healthcare system that is patient-centric, that connects Ontarians to high-quality and convenient healthcare closer to home."
Meanwhile, Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry MPP Nolan Quinn will be taking over the assistant role to the minister of health.
Hastings-Lennox and Addington MPP Ric Bresee previously held the role of assistant to the minister of natural resources and forestry but is moving to do the same for the minister of transportation.
