PREMIER MCGUINTY APPOINTS NEW PARLIAMENTARY ASSISTANTS
York West M.P.P. Mario Sergio to serve as Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, responsible for seniors portfolio

QUEEN'S PARK - Earlier this week, Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty strengthened his government's leadership team by appointing new Parliamentary Assistants (PA's) to support the work of Cabinet and its various committees.

'Our caucus is an energetic, hard-working team that is building a better Ontario," said Premier McGuinty. "Our government is making the most of the talents of our parliamentary assistants and I know they'll help deliver results for the people of Ontario."

Effective immediately M.P.P. Mario Sergio is now serving as Parliamentary Assistant to John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, where he will be responsible for the seniors' portfolio.

"I am very eager to assume my new responsibilities. During my time in opposition, I served as the critic for seniors' issues and developed a strong working relationship with a variety of senior advocacy groups across this province. I look forward to working with the Minister of Health, George Smitherman, to make certain that seniors' issues remain at the forefront of this government's agenda. Our focus will be to ensure that residents of long-term care facilities live in dignity and are provided with the highest quality of care; maintaining our resolve in reducing the wait time for essential procedures such as cancer care and cardiac surgery; provide viable funding for home care; and overcome the challenges that a rapidly aging population continually face in their everyday lives," said Mr. Sergio.

Generally, Parliamentary Assistants carry out duties assigned by their minister or the Premier. Their responsibilities often include carrying bills through the house or its committees on behalf of their ministers, leading ministry consultations with the public and taking responsibility for specific programs or policy initiatives.

For more information contact:

Mario Sergio, M.P.P. York West

(416) 585-7540