Monday was a big day for Alberta, as a new cabinet was born.
Along with the swearing in of new Premier Jim Prentice, came a massive shuffle, which saw several high-profile ministers removed from their positions.
One of the shocking dismissals was Municipal Affairs Minister, Greg Weadick, who said “I was surprised. We’ve been working very hard and things were going well.”
“It is a different cabinet. I was surprised that there wasn’t any representation for Southern Alberta. It’s a major change.”
The MLA for Lethbridge-West was the only caucus member from southern Alberta. Now that he’s been removed, the region has zero representation in cabinet.
“Obviously southern Alberta is not well represented in this cabinet. Historically that’s been an issue,” said political expert, Bonnie Fairies.
“Weadick having a cabinet position tried to keep the PC’s relevant in this region. Without him having a cabinet position, it definitely speaks volumes.”
Fairies explained southern Alberta not having a voice in caucus will affect voters’ opinions.
“How the residents, the voters interpret that, it is a bit of a slap on the wrist.”
Weadick said even though he’s no longer in cabinet, he will continue to do his best to represent the region.
“I will still continue to bring all the issues from the South forward to the government, to caucus and to cabinet ministers when and where appropriate.”
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