BC MPs take on key roles in Poilievre's new Conservative 'Affordability Team'

Several British Columbia MPs have landed prominent roles in Pierre Poilievre's newly announced Conservative Affordability Team, the Official Opposition's renewed shadow cabinet.

The appointments put British Columbia Conservative MPs in charge of files ranging from transportation and the environment to addictions, small business, fisheries, supply chains, Pacific economic development, and ethics and accountable government.

In announcing the team, Poilievre said Conservatives will focus on three priorities: "affordability, affordability and affordability," while holding the Liberal government to account on issues including the cost of living, crime and economic growth.

Here's a look at the British Columbia MPs joining the front bench.

Mark Strahl

Role: Special Advisor for British Columbia

A veteran MP first elected in 2011, Mark Strahl has represented Chilliwack–Hope for more than a decade.

As Special Advisor for British Columbia, he'll help ensure BC's priorities are reflected within the Conservative caucus and advise Poilievre on issues affecting the province.

Dan Albas

Role: Shadow Minister for Transport

Dan Albas returns to the Conservative front bench as transport critic.

First elected in 2011, the Okanagan MP has held several shadow cabinet portfolios and is well known for speaking on affordability, taxation and government accountability. His new role includes scrutinizing federal transportation policy and infrastructure.

Ellis Ross

Role: Shadow Minister for Environment and Climate Change

Before entering federal politics, Ellis Ross served as a BC MLA and was chief councillor of the Haisla Nation.

Ross has been a strong advocate for responsible resource development and Indigenous economic opportunities. As environment critic, he'll lead the Conservatives' response to federal climate and environmental policy.

Aaron Gunn

Role: Shadow Minister for Ethics and Accountable Government 

Aaron Gunn is one of the newest MPs in the Conservative caucus after winning North Island–Powell River.

His appointment puts him in charge of the ethics and accountable government file, where he'll be responsible for scrutinizing government transparency, accountability and ethical conduct.

Tamara Kronis

Role: Shadow Minister for Supply Chain Issues and Chair of the Food Affordability Task Force

Former Nanaimo city councillor Tamara Kronis will lead the Conservatives' work on supply chain issues while also chairing the party's Food Affordability Task Force.

Her portfolio ties directly into the party's focus on lowering grocery prices and improving affordability for Canadians.

Brad Vis

Role: Shadow Minister for Small Business

Brad Vis, who has represented his Fraser Valley riding since 2019, takes on the small business portfolio.

He'll focus on issues affecting entrepreneurs, employers and economic growth, with an emphasis on reducing barriers for businesses.

Todd Doherty

Role: Shadow Minister for Addictions

First elected in 2015, Todd Doherty has long been an outspoken advocate for mental health and support for first responders.

As addictions critic, he'll lead the Conservatives' work on one of British Columbia's most pressing issues as the province continues to grapple with the toxic drug crisis.

Mel Arnold

Role: Associate Shadow Minister for Fisheries

Mel Arnold continues working on a portfolio closely tied to British Columbia.

The longtime MP will focus on recreational fisheries and West Coast issues, supporting the party's work on fisheries and ocean policy.

Tamara Jansen

Role: Shadow Minister for Pacific Economic Development

Tamara Jansen returns to the Conservative front bench as Shadow Minister for Pacific Economic Development.

The Fraser Valley MP was first elected in 2019 and was re-elected after winning the newly created riding of Cloverdale–Langley City. In her new role, she'll scrutinize federal programs aimed at supporting economic growth and investment across BC and the Pacific region.

Looking ahead

With BC MPs taking on several high-profile portfolios, the province will have a strong presence in the Conservative shadow cabinet as when Parliament returns sitting in September.

Their appointments span many of the issues expected to dominate the next parliamentary session, including affordability, transportation, the environment, small business, addictions, supply chains, Pacific economic development, ethics and government accountability.