News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Premier Brian Gallant and the members of the Executive Council were sworn in this afternoon in a ceremony held at the legislative assembly in Fredericton.

Gallant spoke about the new government’s vision for New Brunswick.

“Job creation will be the top priority of this government in our coming mandate,” Gallant said. “We must get our finances in order, help our families and restore hope in our province.”

The ceremony was presided over by Lt.-Gov. Graydon Nicholas and took place in the presence of the premier, Executive Council, the newly elected members of the legislature, their families and invited guests.

In keeping with the long-standing tradition of the legislative assembly, Gallant named the members recommended for appointment, which the lieutenant-governor signed. Nicholas also administered the Oath of Allegiance and the Executive Councillor's Oath to each member of the Executive Council.

Gallant recommended the assignment of ministerial responsibilities to each of the members of the Executive Council. The lieutenant-governor then signed the orders of assignment for each member.

The new Executive Council reflects commitments Gallant made regarding a smaller cabinet of 12 ministers, brought about by having several ministers lead multiple departments. Gallant said in the first few months of his mandate, some restructuring will be done to reduce the number of departments, deputy ministers and other senior executives to further streamline the provincial government.

In his remarks to the assembly, Gallant impressed upon his new cabinet the importance of their role in moving New Brunswick forward.

“We have a great challenge ahead of us. It’s important that we face this challenge together,” Gallant said. “I have confidence that cabinet ministers will help us meet the expectations of our new government. We have made commitments to the people of New Brunswick and it is the job of every member to work hard every day to help us keep those commitments.”