Man. Premier Stefanson shuffles cabinet

Jun 23, 2022

Greg Nesbitt is the new minister of natural resources and northern development

By Diego Flammini
Staff Writer
Farms.com

Manitoba has a new minister of natural resources and northern development.

Premier Heather Stefanson appointed Greg Nesbitt (pictured above), the MLA for Riding Mountain, to the position on June 9.

“Thank you (Premier Stefanson) for your confidence in me,” Nesbitt said on Twitter on June 9. “I am so excited to be the Minister of Natural Resources and Northern Development and continue to grow the resource sector in this great province.”

As minister, Nesbitt’s mandate is to lead the responsible development of Manitoba’s natural resources and supporting social and economic development opportunities in the north.

Nesbitt’s appointment follows the resignation of Scott Fielding, the MLA for Kirkfield Park.

He’s leaving public office to pursue opportunities in the private sector, he said on Twitter on June 6.

Fielding was also the minister responsible for the Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation.

Andrew Smith, the MLA for Lagimodiere, will assume those responsibilities.

Nesbitt first entered the Manitoba legislature as an MLA in September 2016 and won re-election in April 2019.

Though this is his first cabinet position, he previously served the legislative assistant to the minister of health, seniors and active living (Audrey Gordon).

He has experience in community newspaper associations and served in multiple community leadership roles, including as a founding member of the Shoal Lake Regional Airport Authority.

“Minister Nesbitt is a long-time business owner and community leader and understands the importance rural economic development plays in building a strong and vibrant province,” Stefanson said in a June 9 press release. “I am confident Minister Nesbitt will play an important role as we continue with our efforts for economic recovery and growth and building hope and opportunity for all Manitobans.”

This is Stefanson’s second cabinet shuffle since becoming premier in November 2021.

The first happened in January 2022, which saw Derek Johnson, the MLA for Interlake-Gimli, replace Ralph Eichler as the minister of agriculture.

Video: 2024 AGM Day 1 - Agriculture Matters

In this diverse and dynamic discussion, our panelists will share unique insights on why agriculture matters in ensuring food security, addressing environmental challenges, and navigating economic landscapes. From the fresh perspectives of 5th generation producer Mady Adamson, to the on-farm and business savvy of Manitoba’s own Paul Spenst, to the wisdom of former CEO and marketing expert Kim McConnell and his 40+ years in the business, we aim to explore the common ground that binds generations in recognizing the profound impact of agriculture.

This inclusive dialogue will not only bridge generational gaps but also emphasize the enduring relevance of agriculture across urban and rural Canada, particularly when faced with the realities of continued pressures on our supply chain that continue to drive up the cost of food and food production. Join us for an enriching discussion that spans the ages, unifying diverse viewpoints to foster a collective understanding of the vital role agriculture plays in building a prosperous and sustainable future.