New Ministers Appointed to National Defence and Veterans Affairs

Long-time Parliamentarian David McGuinty has assumed the Minister of National Defence role, bringing his extensive experience to this crucial role.

McGinty is one of several fresh appointments in Prime Minister Mark Carney’s newly announced cabinet.

In addition to changes in Defence, Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) has also welcomed new leadership. Delta Member of Parliament Jill McKnight has been named Minister of Veterans Affairs and will also serve as Associate Minister of National Defence.

“Canada’s new Ministry is built to deliver the change Canadians want and deserve. Everyone is expected and empowered to show leadership – to bring new ideas, a clear focus, and decisive action to their work,” said Carney in a statement announcing the new cabinet.

The new ministers were sworn into the new Cabinet on May 13, 2025.

“Our new government will be a strong and reliable partner to the provinces, the territories and to Indigenous peoples. We will reinforce bridges across labour, business and civil society, and together we will advance the nation-building investments that support the core mission of this government, which is to create the strongest economy in the G7, an economy that works for everyone,” said Carney in a news conference.

Two Decades of Experience

McGuinty has served as the Member of Parliament for Ottawa South since 2004, effectively being re-elected six times.

During his time in Parliament, he has served as Acting Whip, House Leader of the Official Opposition and most recently Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness.

He comes into this new role, having served as the Chair of the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians.

Outside of politics, McGuinty has a background in law and has worked on behalf of UNICEF across Africa to promote children’s rights and lecturing, conducting research, and designing courses at various post-secondary institutions across the globe.

McGuinty is the recipient of a Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal for his service to Canada.

A Fresh New Face

VAC’s new minister is one of thirteen newly elected members of Parliament. McKnight is a first-time politician.

Prior to jumping into politics this year, McKnight and her family owned and operated South Coast Casuals, a women’s clothing boutique, for nearly three decades. Because of her dedication to the community, she has been the recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal, the Queen’s Jubilee Award and the 2019 Volunteer of the Year Award.

McKnight is a native of Delta, BC.