It was an emotional afternoon at government house, as Premier Andrew Furey shuffled his cabinet.

The shuffle was brought on following Minister Derrick Bragg’s cancer diagnosis. Both he and the premier were emotional both during and after the ceremony.

Bragg will remain a minister, but will not be responsible for a specific portfolio. Elvis Loveless will take over Bragg’s former portfolio of Fisheries. Forestry and Agriculture.

Many in the room were emotional during the ceremony, including Premier Andrew Furey. After Bragg was sworn into his new role, Furey shook his hand, gave him a tight hug, and offered some words of support. He calls the situation a reminder of how fragile life can be. He spoke directly to Bragg, noting that all of cabinet is rallying behind him.

John Abbott will take on Transportation and Infrastructure, while Paul Pike will join cabinet as Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development.

John Haggie is now in the Municipal and Provincial Affairs portfolio, swapping with Krista Lynn Howell who takes over Education.