At 29, Sam Oosterhoff is the youngest-ever Ontario minister of agriculture, food and agribusiness. The MPP for Niagara West hails from a region known for its tender fruit, grape and greenhouse sectors. Most recently, he was the associate minister of energy. 

He comes to the post just as the deputy agriculture minister Dr. John Kelly has announced his retirement from the government on October 9th after six years in the role.  

Trevor Jones, agriculture minister since March 2025, is moving to the labour, immigration, training and skills development portfolio. Representing the riding of Chatham-Kent-Leamington, he brought a strong understanding of agricultural issues.  

This switch-up in government roles comes at a fraught time when Ontario farmers are feeling the uncertainty of the trade war with the U.S. while coping with rising input costs. 

The Ontario fall legislative session starts on October 27, one day after the provincial municipal elections.

Source: Staff