Schmidt takes over as education minister, Moyes joins cabinet: Manitoba government

Tracy Schmidt has transitioned as Minister of Environment and Climate Change to the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning. Photo uploaded Oct. 18, 2023. (John Woods/The Canadian Press)

The Manitoba government made a pair of changes to cabinet Thursday following the death of the former education minister Nello Altomare last week.

Premier Wab Kinew announced Tracy Schmidt—the MLA for Rossmere—will be shifting from the portfolio of environment and climate change to education and early childhood learning.

“I am honoured to take up the torch of minister of education and early childhood learning and continue on the incredible work of my late colleague and friend Nello Altomare,” said Schmidt in a news release.

“In this role I will keep working to give every child in Manitoba a path to success—an inspiring education, a fulfilling career and a good life.”

Schmidt was previously covering the role in an acting capacity while Altomare was on leave.

Altomare died at the age of 61 last week after complications from chemotherapy.

Taking over Schmidt’s position is Mike Moyes—the MLA for Riel.

“I am honoured to be asked to serve Manitobans in this role,” said Moyes in a news release. “Together, we will work to face the climate challenges ahead and to create safe, clean and healthy environments for Manitobans. I look forward to helping preserve and protect lands and waters in our province for generations to come.”