Remarks by Prime Minister Stephen Harper on the Swearing in of a new Ministry

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Hello, everyone.  Sixteen days ago, Canadians went to the polls and entrusted this government with a strengthened mandate. 

Canadians have entrusted us with the continued stewardship of Canada's economy.  They did so because of the recent economic international instability and their understandable worries about their earnings, their savings and their long-term financial security.

The fundamentals of Canada's economy remain stronger, more stable and more durable than those of many other nations.  At the same time, we cannot be completely protected from what happens outside of our borders. 

That is why the central responsibility of our new mandate will be to ensure Canadian families and businesses have the security they need to weather any global economic storm. 

It is a responsibility we take very seriously.  We must ensure Canada's economic fundamentals remain strong, and we must ensure that Canada plays a leading role in a balanced and effective global response to this global crisis. 

This situation also means that Ottawa must keep its own house in order. Canadians deserve the highest standards of competence, prudence and accountability from their government.  That's especially true today, when, as is the case for many families and businesses, our government's margin of manœuvre is tighter than ever.  We will ensure that the federal government continues to manage its own affairs prudently and pragmatically.
The new ministry we've introduced today is an experienced, economically focused team, and they are prepared to get right to work for Canadians.  This is not a time to take risks.  Indeed, certainty, stability and competence are our greatest assets.  That is why I've asked Jim Flaherty to remain as Minister of Finance in our new government.

The swearing in of a new ministry is also a time for renewal. I am delighted to appoint ten new ministers. They will bring new energy and new ideas that will complement and build on the solid experience of the existing members of our Cabinet.

This is a broad and inclusive team, rich in talent, all qualities we associate with Canada itself.  I can tell you, it is always a challenge to select a cabinet.  There are always more qualified candidates than there are positions to fill, but I'm confident that this is the right team for these times. 

I've informed both our new and returning ministers that the difficult part starts now.  We must remain clear in direction, focused on priorities and accountable for results.

We will draw on the talents of Canada's best and brightest, from all walks of life.  And we will remain open to new ideas and good policies, wherever they come from. We will devote all our energy to that goal.

We will work together to ensure that no matter what happens in other places, Canada remains a safe harbour of relative calm and stability, whether we are talking about a place to work, to invest, to immigrate, to retire, to build a home or to raise a family. 
Ladies and gentlemen, we take this responsibility seriously.  We will work to protect Canadian families and businesses from this period of global economic turmoil and ensure Canada emerges stronger than ever before, to ensure that today and always, Canada remains the true North, strong and free. 

Thank you.

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