Premier Danielle Smith unveiled a major shakeup of her cabinet Thursday, dividing Alberta’s sprawling health portfolio in what she calls a strategic move to address the province’s ongoing healthcare challenges.
The restructuring creates two distinct ministries – the Ministry of Health, which remains under Adriana LaGrange, and a new Ministry of Mental Health and Addiction, now led by Dan Williams. This change represents the most significant aspect of a cabinet shuffle that saw several key ministers change roles while maintaining the UCP government’s overall size.
“The decision to create a dedicated ministry for mental health and addiction reflects the unique challenges we’re facing,” Smith told reporters at Government House in Edmonton. “These issues deserve focused attention and leadership that’s separate from the broader healthcare system.”
The premier’s move comes amid rising concerns about the opioid crisis and mental health supports across Alberta communities. Last year, the province recorded over 1,600 opioid-related deaths, according to Alberta Health Services data.
Political observers note that healthcare delivery has been a consistent challenge for Smith’s government, with opposition critics frequently targeting wait times and rural service gaps. Recent polls by Angus Reid showed healthcare remains the top concern for 42% of Albertans.
LaGrange, who retains her role overseeing the mainstream healthcare system, faces the difficult task of implementing the UCP’s controversial Alberta Health Services restructuring plan. That initiative aims to decentralize decision-making while addressing physician shortages that have left some communities without consistent emergency department coverage.
“I’m grateful for the premier’s continued confidence,” LaGrange said following the announcement. “Breaking out mental health and addiction allows each ministry to give proper attention to their distinct challenges while working together where our mandates intersect.”
Williams, the new mental health and addiction minister, previously served as parliamentary secretary for civil liberties. His appointment signals what Smith described as the government’s focus on “recovery-oriented” approaches to addiction.
“Albertans deserve a government that treats addiction as a health issue requiring compassionate, evidence-based solutions,” Williams said in a written statement. “I’m committed to expanding treatment access while supporting those struggling with mental health challenges.”
The cabinet shuffle also brought significant changes to other portfolios. Nate Glubish moves from Technology and Innovation to Finance, while Matt Jones shifts from Jobs, Economy and Trade to Technology and Innovation.
Political scientist Duane Bratt of Mount Royal University suggests the shuffle represents Smith’s mid-mandate reset. “This is a common strategy for governments at this stage – refresh key positions while maintaining overall policy direction,” Bratt said in an interview. “The health portfolio split stands out as more than symbolic, signaling Smith wants visible action on addiction issues before the next election.”
The Opposition NDP criticized the moves as cosmetic rather than substantive. Health critic David Shepherd questioned whether structural changes would address fundamental issues in healthcare delivery.
“Albertans don’t need a new ministry – they need more doctors, nurses, and shorter wait times,” Shepherd said. “Rearranging cabinet titles doesn’t solve healthcare accessibility problems felt across the province.”
Smith defended the timing of the shuffle, which comes after her government endured criticism over several healthcare controversies, including changes to gender-affirming care for youth and disputes with the Alberta Medical Association over physician compensation.
“Every ministry adjustment is designed with Albertans in mind,” Smith said. “We’re positioning our team to deliver on promises while adapting to new challenges that have emerged since we formed government.”
The premier maintained that splitting health responsibilities will improve accountability without increasing bureaucratic costs, though opposition members remain skeptical. The government indicated transition details between the ministries will be finalized in coming weeks.
For everyday Albertans, the real test will be whether these changes translate to improvements in healthcare access, addiction services, and mental health support. As Fort McMurray resident Sarah Kingsley put it: “New ministries sound fine, but most folks just want to know they can see a doctor when needed or get help for a family member in crisis.”
The reshuffled cabinet meets next week to continue budget implementation for the current fiscal year.
