Van Loan pleased with his new assignment
by Bill Rea

Van Loan on election night. photo by Michelle Minnoch

York - Simcoe MP Peter Van Loan has been in the federal cabinet less than two months, but he's already been shuffled.

He's not complaining, however.

Van Loan, 43, is the new Leader of the government in the House of Commons, as well as minister for democratic reform, thanks to the changes Prime Minister Stephen Harper made to his team last week.

Late in November, he was named minister of intergovernmental affairs, minister of sport and president of the Queen's Privy Council.

"I am honoured by the confidence the prime minister has shown in me, after just a short time in cabinet," Van Loan declared. "The responsibility of ensuring our government continues to get things done for Canadians is a weighty and exciting challenge."

He later said his new posting is "absolutely" a promotion, although that might not be readily apparent to the average Canadian.

"It's a job that's hard to understand unless you're involved in the intricacies of the House of Commons every day," he remarked.

He added the intergovernmental affairs portfolio didn't leave him with as much to do, since a lot of the related matters are dealt with by the prime minister and premiers.

"This is much more substantive responsibility," he said, adding he will actually be working on problems and have more opportunities to do positive things for people in York - Simcoe.

Van Loan will be responsible for planning and managing the government's legislative agenda, and maintaining relations with the opposition concerning House activities. He will be working in close cooperation with the prime minister, and determines which proposed laws move forward.

The role is particularly important in a minority Parliament, where the government cannot get laws passed without at least some co-operation from other parties.

"The foot-dragging and opposition by the other parties to our proposals to get tough on crime may be the biggest challenge we face today as we try to deliver on our commitments to Canadians," said Van Loan.

The democratic reform aspect of the portfolio includes the government's Senate reform and electoral reform legislation, including the proposal for fixed fouryear term election dates.

He said he wasn't surprised by last week's developments, adding he learned he'd be switching jobs last Tuesday evening (the official announcement was made Thursday). He cited his experience as a lawyer and former party president. "The prime minister kind of regards me as a jack of all trades," he commented.

The cabinet shuffle saw Van Loan replaced in intergovernmental affairs by Rona Ambrose, who was the environment minister until replaced by John Baird.

Van Loan said Baird has a strong track record, and that includes his service in the provincial cabinet. "I think he's perfect for that," he declared.

He was also impressed with Jason Kenny's appointment as secretary of state for multiculturalism and Canadian identity, calling him a great addition to cabinet. As well, Van Loan was pleased that his former seatmate in the House, Christian Paradis, is secretary of state for agriculture. "I've got a lot of time for him," he said.