Legault adjusts cabinet, appoints Fréchette to economy and energy, Roberge to immigration

In response to the abrupt departure of one of his senior ministers, Premier François Legault has reshuffled his cabinet, appointing Christine Fréchette as the new minister of both the economy and energy.

Fréchette was formally sworn in on Thursday afternoon, taking over the responsibilities previously managed by Pierre Fitzgibbon, who announced his resignation on Wednesday due to a loss of motivation for politics.

Fitzgibbon, who had served in cabinet for six years, was a figure of controversy, having been the subject of six ethics investigations. Despite this, he was considered one of Legault's most trusted ministers, often referred to as a "super minister" for handling both the economy and energy portfolios.

Before her new appointment, Fréchette was the province's immigration minister. That role will now be assumed by Jean-François Roberge, who will manage immigration alongside his current responsibilities as the French language minister.

In her new position, Fréchette will oversee Bill 69, significant legislation aimed at boosting Quebec's green energy production if enacted.

Following the swearing-in ceremony, Legault, joined by Fréchette and Roberge, praised Fréchette as a brilliant individual with a strong background in economic affairs.

"I will give it my all to help Quebec progress in terms of economic development and energy transition," Fréchette stated.

She will also take on the role of minister responsible for the Montreal region. Fréchette represents the Sanguinet riding on Montreal's South Shore, which includes the municipalities of Saint-Constant, Sainte-Catherine, and Saint-Rémi.

Previously, she was the president and general manager of the Chambre de commerce de l'Est de Montréal and was first elected in October 2022.

Fitzgibbon, who also served as the MNA for Terrebonne, just north of Montreal, has left a vacant seat. On Thursday afternoon, Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon was in Terrebonne to officially launch the party's campaign for the now-vacant position.

Under provincial law, a byelection must be held within six months of a seat being vacated.