ROSE VALLEY — Newly appointed Minister of Energy and Resources Chris Beaudry said he was surprised and grateful to receive the cabinet appointment.
In an interview with SaskToday, Beaudry said he met with the premier’s chief of staff ahead of the announcement. Since his appointment was made public, he said his phone has been ringing steadily with calls from family, friends and stakeholders he will now be working with.
Beaudry said the new role will come with additional staff, and that he plans to spend time reviewing files and briefing materials from former Minister Colleen Young.
He thanked Young for her work in the portfolio and said he will continue to work with her to ensure a smooth transition and a thorough understanding of ongoing issues.
While the added responsibilities may limit his attendance at community events, Beaudry said he remains committed to his constituents and to representing communities in his constituency.
“I want people to know I’m still focused on my communities,” he said.
Beaudry said he has a family background in the oil and gas industry. His father and uncle continue to work in Europe and have experience in Northern Africa, Australia and Europe.
Beaudry said that within the constituency, the BHP Jansen Potash Mine is a major mining project being developed. It will become one of the world’s largest potash mines, producing a key raw material used primarily in fertilizers to support global agriculture and food security.
Looking ahead, Beaudry said he hopes to use his new role to support job creation and economic growth across the province.
“I want to serve the people of Saskatchewan as best I can and help move the province forward through jobs and economic impact,” he said.
