At a swearing-in ceremony held in Ottawa on October 26th, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau unveiled Canada’s new cabinet, which has been shuffled considerably to include several new roles and revamped positions. With 38 members represented equally by women and men, nine ministers are new to the roster, while seven will continue on with the same title and role they had prior to the ceremony.

Of importance to the housing sector, Trudeau named Toronto MP Ahmed Hussen to a new ministry that combines housing with diversity and inclusion. Hussen was first elected in 2015 to represent the riding of York South-Weston. He has previously served as Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.

“Canadians need a strong and diverse Cabinet to deliver on their priorities and keep Canada moving forward for everyone,” said Prime Minister Trudeau. “This team will finish the fight against COVID‑19, deliver on $10-a-day childcare, help Canadians find a home of their own, tackle the climate crisis, and continue to advance reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Together, we will work tirelessly to build a better future for all Canadians.”

According to the official press release, Canada’s 38 cabinet ministers will provide support to the new portfolios as follows:

• • The Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities will be supported by the Privy Council Office and Infrastructure Canada.
  • The Minister for Women, Gender Equality and Youth will be supported by Women and Gender Equality Canada, with additional support from Canadian Heritage and Employment and Social Development Canada.
  • The President of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness will be supported by the Privy Council Office and Public Safety Canada.
  • The Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development will be supported by Global Affairs Canada, with additional support from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.
  • The Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion will be supported by Canadian Heritage, Women and Gender Equality Canada, and Infrastructure Canada.
  • The Minister of Rural Economic Development will be supported by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.
  • The Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance will be supported by the Department of Finance Canada with additional support from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.