Some big changes within Premier Tim Houston’s cabinet as a Liberal MLA crosses the floor to join the Tories.

Richmond MLA Trevor Boudreau is stepping down as Minister of Community Services and L’Nu Affairs.

Boudreau says the move is due to personal and health reasons and takes effect right away.

“It is with great sadness that I accept Trevor’s resignation from cabinet and thank him for his service,” said Premier Houston. “But I respect that Trevor is doing the right thing for his family and his constituents, and I look forward to his continued contribution to the province by serving the people of Richmond.”

In a shocking twist, Brendan Maguire, MLA for Halifax Atlantic, has joined Premier Houston’s inner circle and is the new Minister of Community Services.

Maguire was first elected with the Liberals in 2013.

“Brendan has consistently offered good advice and solutions on the community services portfolio. He has the lived experience, helping to make him the right fit for this file. Brendan is also an incredibly hard worker, who I know will give this everything he has,” said Houston.

Meantime, Brian Wong becomes Minister of L’Nu Affairs, while retaining his current responsibilities as Minister of Advanced Education.

Liberals respond to Maguire’s departure

Liberal Leader Zach Churchill says he is sad to see Maguire leave the party after working together for 10 years.

“While I’m sad to see him leave our caucus, I know he shares our concerns about the affordability crisis,” said Churchill. “To date, the Houston government has made decisions to worsen food insecurity and poverty and I hope in his new role, Brendan is able to reverse that trend to help low and middle income Nova Scotians.”

Maguire has served as deputy speaker and led the municipal affairs portfolio under the previous Liberal government.

He will be the third person to lead community services in the last year after Pictou MLA Karla MacFarlane was moved out of the role to become house speaker last September.