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Struthers, Chomiak take on more cabinet duties

Premier Greg Selinger has filled a pair of holes in his cabinet.

Dauphin MLA Stan Struthers will be the acting finance minister and will retain his agricultural portfolio, while Kildonan MLA Dave Chomiak will step in as acting conservation minister. Chomiak, already minister of Innovation, Energy and Mines, will also take responsibility for Manitoba Hydro.

Longtime Swan River MLA Rosann Wowchuk, Manitoba’s first female finance minister, did not run in this month’s election. Former Elmwood MLA Bill Blaikie, who held the conservation portfolio, also retired from public life.

Meanwhile, two NDP MLAs are said to be vying for the position of speaker, which is chosen in a vote by all MLAs. A source said Selkirk MLA Greg Dewar and Transcona MLA Daryl Reid have expressed interest in the job so far.

Election of the speaker will be the first item of business as the 40th Manitoba Legislature begins on Thursday. The speaker will be elected at 10 a.m. That will be followed by the Speech from the Throne at 1:30 p.m.

Former Point Douglas MLA George Hickes, who had been speaker since 1999, has retired.

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