Delta-Richmond East MP Kerry-Lynne Findlay was part of Prime Minister Stephen Harper's minor cabinet shuffle last week.
On Friday it was announced at a private swearing-in ceremony at Rideau Hall that Findlay, a first-term MP who had been in the role of parliamentary secretary to the minister of justice, will become the associate to Defence Minister Peter McKay.
"Our government is delivering on its promise to build a first-class, modern military that is ready to take on the challenges of the 21st century. I am honoured that Prime Minister Harper has asked me to continue this important work as associate minister of national defence," Findlay said.
"I have profound respect and admiration for the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces. I look forward to supporting the minister of national defence on a number of key projects as we work to rebuild our military while delivering value for taxpayer dollars."
She added, "Our government's investments in renewing and modernizing the Canadian Armed Forces' capabilities are creating thousands of high quality skilled jobs all across the country."
The other moves included Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue, being appointed minister for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), and Minister of Veterans Affairs Steven Blaney assuming responsibility for La Francophonie.
The most high profile of the moves was the naming of Bernard Valcourt to the aboriginal affairs portfolio. Valcourt, a Brian Mulroney-era minister, is now the minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development after John Duncan resigned last week.
"The Government remains focused on creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity across Canada, including in our Aboriginal communities," said the prime minister.
"Mr. Valcourt brings considerable and wide-ranging cabinet experience to his new role and I am confident Ms. Findlay will contribute to the enhancement of our Armed Forces while delivering value for money to Canadian taxpayers."
