Wednesday, May 18, 2011 (Ottawa) - The Honourable Julian Fantino, Member of Parliament for Vaughan today issued the following statement on his appointment to Cabinet as Canada's Associate Minister of National Defence.

"Since the November 2010 and May 2011 elections, I have been tremendously humbled to serve Vaughan families and seniors as their Member of Parliament.  I have also been privileged to serve in Prime Minister Harper's Cabinet as Canada's Minister of State for Seniors.

"I have worked hard to advance the interests of Canada's seniors from coast to coast to coast. This was reflected in our Government's Budget 2011, where support for seniors was a major focus. My commitment to public service has always been about delivering results. In my short time in office, I have done just that.

"I will always put the people of Vaughan first and will continue to champion the priorities of our seniors.  In the Next Phase of Canada's Economic Action Plan, our Government will invest in our seniors and caregivers, combat elder abuse and continue to keep taxes low.  At the local level, I am proud of the work we have done for Vaughan's seniors, delivering investments that will improve senior's quality of life, health and safety for years to come.

"Today, Prime Minister Stephen Harper has asked me to continue to serve all Canadians as the Associate Minister of National Defence.  I take this time to pay tribute to the brave and heroic men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces who, without hesitation, put their lives on the line in defence of our freedom.  A firm belief in freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law will guide me forward in my thoughts, deeds and actions over my time as Associate Minister.  Our Government is committed to those very values they fight so courageously to defend, here at home and around the world.

"I thank the Prime Minister for this tremendous honour and I thank the people of Vaughan for the privilege to continue to serve them and deliver results."