The next trade mission for the Premier will be his first as Energy Minister.

Tim Houston took over the role after Trevor Boudreau was dropped from cabinet in a surprise shuffle last week.

While talking to reporters Thursday, Houston would not go into detail about the move.

“We have a very large caucus, a lot of diversity of thought, diversity of background, a lot of highly intelligent people. So as Premier, it’s my responsibility to make sure that we’re using the skills we have for the benefit of Nova Scotians, and I make tough decisions all all the time to do that,” said Houston.

The Premier is heading to Calgary next week to meet with two industry groups.

And then he’s off to Houston, Texas, to talk with energy companies and a representative from the Canadian government.

“We just want people to know the Nova Scotia opportunity and have discussions with them. So that’s what we’re gonna do,” said Houston.