Tony Wakeham has officially become the 16th premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, marking a significant return to power for the Progressive Conservative party after nearly ten years. The swearing-in ceremony took place at Government House in St. John’s, where Wakeham’s new cabinet was also inaugurated. The cabinet includes several PC MHAs who will oversee various important portfolios.
Barry Petten, representing Conception Bay South, has been appointed as the minister of transportation and infrastructure, public procurement, and deputy premier. Helen Conway Ottenheimer, the MHA for Harbour Main, will serve as the minister of justice and public safety, attorney general, and hold various other roles. Other appointments include Paul Dinn as the minister of education and early childhood development, Lela Evans as the minister of health and community services, Pleaman Forsey as the minister of forestry, agriculture, and lands, and Loyola O’Driscoll as the minister of fisheries and aquaculture, among others.
In the recent provincial election, the PCs secured a majority with 21 seats, narrowly winning the popular vote. The Liberals, NDP, and Independents also won seats. The Liberals have requested recounts in three closely contested districts – Placentia West-Bellevue, Topsail-Paradise, and Lewisporte-Twillingate. The PCs criticized this move, labeling it as a “waste of the court’s time” and a “scheme.”
The Progressive Conservatives are now set to govern Newfoundland and Labrador, with Wakeham leading the province as premier.