Volpe Human Resources Minister

Newly appointed Italian-Canadian politician is credited with having great patience

The entire family met in Ottawa last week in celebration of Joe Volpe's inclusion into Paul Martin's new cabinet. "It is quite fitting for them to be here with me," commented the MP for Eglinton-Lawrence, newly appointed as Minister of Human Resources. "My family and my supporters gave me great help; they encouraged me along my years in waiting."
Volpe remarked that the message coming from his swearing in ceremony is that "good things come to those who work hard, but especially to those who bide their time and are patient. Sometimes, like in my case, it takes a little longer, but good results come, eventually."
Volpe is very proud of the post he got, "as it gives me the chance to do a lot in the social field." The Ministry also gives vocational training and social assistance at the Federal levels, such as Employment Insurance.
The Italian-Canadian minister is also very proud of being Political Minister for Ontario. "I'm particularly grateful to the Prime Minister," said Volpe, "for this important recognition that rewards me, but also all those who helped me in my work. I hope to justify their trust."
Volpe also underscored the 'massive' presence of Italian-Canadians within the cabinet, although he expressed "great regret for the absence of many colleagues who would have deserved positions of relevance, due to their competence and loyalty."
According to the Minister of Human Resources, the new government once again confirms "how well integrated our community is, how thoroughly connected to the social and political life of our country it is."
Volpe, 55, former Vice President of the Catholic School Board, married and father of four, was one of Paul Martin's staunchest supporters, and was frequently on a collision course with former PM Jean Chrétien. In the previous administration he was entrusted with numerous posts. The most important one was as Under-secretary of State for Health under Minister Allan Rock, currently Canada's ambassador to the United Nations.

Publication Date: 2003-12-21
Story Location: http://tandemnews.com/viewstory.php?storyid=3493