Pontiac MNA André Fortin appointed Transport Minister

Allyson Beauregard

With a year left until the next provincial election, Pontiac MNA Andre Fortin was appointed Minister of Transport, Sustainable Mobility and Electrification of Transport as part of a recent cabinet shuffle. He was sworn in October 11 and takes over for Laurent Lessard, who maintains his role as Minister of Agriculture.

In total, Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard appointed five new ministers and gave new postings to nine others in an effort to overhaul his government and move the economy forward.

Over the next year, Fortin said his priorities include the Marchand Bridge reconstruction in Mansfield as well as the Highway 148 re-construction in the Municipality of Pontiac. He said the call to tender for the bridge's re-construction was issued the week of October 9, with work expected to begin shortly after a contractor is chosen in mid-November. With winter quickly approaching, Fortin said the highway construction could continue into the spring of 2018.

Fortin sees the new appointment as a benefit for the region. “I look forward to ensuring West Quebec's message is received strongly around the cabinet table,” he said, noting local files also have the potential to be moved along more quickly and efficiently.

While his new position means additional time spent in Quebec City, Fortin said his commitment and presence in the Pontiac riding will not be substantially altered.