PREMIER David Eby on Friday announced three changes to cabinet following Finance Minister Brenda Bailey’s decision to take a leave for cancer treatment and recovery.
Bailey has been diagnosed with early-stage cancer that is treatable. She will begin treatment in late August and expects to return to work in early October. She remains a member of cabinet.
“Brenda came to me with her diagnosis and her plan, and I told her to take the time she needs,” Eby said. “She’ll be back at the cabinet table this fall. These changes give her room to focus on getting well and give British Columbians continuity on the issues that matter most to them.”
The following appointments take effect on Friday, August 14:
* Josie Osborne, Minister of Finance
* Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Health
* Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth
Bailey returns to the ministry she led as minister of jobs, economic development and innovation, taking on the major projects and trade diversification files. Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions, will cover Bailey’s portfolio while she’s on leave.
Osborne moves to finance from health, bringing experience across four ministries and a working knowledge of the fiscal plan from the Treasury Board table. Kahlon takes on health after leading jobs and economic growth, including the Look West strategy and the Province’s response to U.S. trade action.
“Josie, Ravi and Brenda are three of the most experienced people around our table,” Eby said. “Their focus will always be on delivering for British Columbians.”
