Ontario MPP Billy Denault has been appointed parliamentary assistant to the minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing following a shuffle of parliamentary assistant roles.
Denault, who represents Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke, announced the appointment in a statement, thanking Premier Doug Ford and Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister Rob Flack for the opportunity.
He said the role aligns with his experience in municipal government and his work representing communities across the Ottawa Valley.
Denault previously served as a municipal councillor and said that experience has shaped his understanding of the decisions local leaders make and their impact on residents.
He said the province’s efforts to build more homes remain important, particularly for young people entering the housing market, families looking to establish roots and seniors seeking suitable housing.
“As someone from a generation facing many of these same challenges, I understand how important it is to keep those opportunities within reach,” Denault said.
The MPP also highlighted Flack’s connections to Renfrew County, saying the minister’s ties to the region make the opportunity to work alongside him particularly meaningful.
Denault’s appointment comes as municipal elections take place across the 19 municipalities in his riding. He congratulated those who put their names forward for local office and said he looks forward to working with the mayors and councillors elected to represent their communities.
He added that his new responsibilities will not change his priorities as the Ottawa Valley’s representative at Queen’s Park.
Denault said he looks forward to returning to the legislature and continuing to advocate for the region’s needs.
(Steve Berard)
