The MLA for Borderland has some new responsibilities with the governing Progressive Conservatives.
In this week's Cabinet shuffle, Premier Heather Stefanson named Josh Guenter Legislative Assistant to the Finance minister, Deputy Caucus Whip, and a member of the Public Accounts Committee. He was also re-appointed to the Treasury Board.
"I'm looking forward to serving in these areas. It's good to be able to contribute in these areas," said Guenter. "I think my intention is simply to try and bring a common-sense, grassroots, Conservative perspective to the table. But overall, it's great to be back and be able to serve again."
Nearly a year ago, the Premier removed Guenter as a legislative assistant to the Minister of Health after supporting those protesting COVID-19 mandates at the Canada/U.S. Border.
As MLA, Guenter says he already had a voice at the table but adds, he is eager to contribute to these specific portfolios as well.
"That's why when the Premier asks me to serve, the first thing that goes through my mind is the folks back home and the people that elected me to be their representative. I want to serve honourably, I want to serve well and keep in mind their concerns and their interests...and work with colleagues on behalf of my constituents and all Manitobans."
Three of his new responsibilities involve finance, and Guenter says this is certainly an area that interests him.
"It's just important that we get it right," he said. "The decisions that we make affect Manitoba taxpayers and the hard-working families of this Province in these times when we're facing rising interest rates and inflationary pressures."
As Legislative Assistant to the Finance minister, Guenter is actively involved in the public budget consultations happening across Manitoba, noting the department is in the later stages of framing the 2023 budget.
"(We're) soliciting feedback from Manitobans and from various stakeholder groups and organizations that exist to get their perspective. Their insights are the most important piece of our budget planning," he explained.
Overall, Guenter says his new responsibilities are an opportunity to learn and to help shape the decision-making process of government.