Zimmer appointed Aboriginal Affairs minister

David Zimmer is the new minister of Aboriginal Affairs. “We enjoyed a positive relationship with Minister Zimmer in his previous capacity as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and we look forward to building on that relationship,” said Métis Nation of Ontario President Gary Lipinski in a news release. Lipinski attended the swearing-in ceremony on Feb. 11. The MNO-Ontario Framework Agreement was signed in 2008 when Wynne held the Aboriginal Affairs portfolio. “The framework agreement proved a solid foundation for cooperation between our two governments and resulted in the advancement of Métis rights as well as achievements in a whole range of other areas including education, health, jobs creation and economic development,” said Lipinski. He added that MNO’s key priorities included ensuring Métis children and youth have opportunities.