MLA for Drumheller-Stettler Nate Horner has been appointed as a Cabinet Minister in the Jason Kenney government.
Horner was appointed Minister of Agriculture and Forestry on Friday, November 5. This is added to his portfolio as Associate Ministers of Rural Economic Development.
“It is an important job for Alberta, and it’s right in my wheelhouse, so I look forward to it,” Horner tells the Mail. “We are rolling right into meeting with every Ag Minister in the country and the federal Ag Minister, starting Monday.” he said.
His promotion comes on the heels of the preceding Agriculture and Forestry Minister Devin Dreeshen resigning from the post amid allegations of heavy drinking at the legislature. There is also a lawsuit that describes a “poison work environment” for the UCP in the legislature.
Horner was first elected to the Alberta Legislature in April of 2019. He was appointed Associate Minister of Rural Economic Development in July of 2021.
He feels his familiarity with the industry and people working in it will help him.
“A lot of the stakeholders I know and have been working with as Rural Caucus Chair and Rural Economic Development. It’s just a fact that I knew a lot of these people before I got into politics. I think it will be a good fit, many have reached out already and are excited to get down to work,” said Horner.
On top of his new portfolio, he will be busy with Rural Economic Development.
“We are in the throws of our Rural Engagement Tour on the economic development side. We are going to continue in that as we take on this new file. I guess we have some briefing up to do on the forestry file for sure, but we’ll get there. The staff is excited,” he said.
“I really relish the opportunity. I guess everyone has a background on what they care and are passionate about, But I think it is a great fit for a riding like ours and my background. I just want to do a good job and get at it,” said Horner.
