Martin was sworn in as Canada's 21st Prime Minister yesterday along with Hamilton West MP Stan Keyes, who was sworn in as revenue minister, and Stoney Creek colleague Tony Valeri who became minister of transport. This is the first time in Hamilton's history that the city has had two local voices at the cabinet table. Bob Speller, MP for Haldimand-Norfolk-Brant, became Canada's agriculture minister.

Longtime Martin loyalists Keyes and Valeri are part of a different cabinet that doesn't include many veteran ministers, including former Heritage Minister Sheila Copps, who have been in cabinet since 1993.

But both new ministers were reluctant to detail their goals yesterday before they were whisked away to pore over briefing books and meet their senior staff.

Keyes said he has some goals he would like to accomplish for Hamilton while in cabinet but declined to share them yet. He said he's just thrilled to be part of Martin's team.

"This is my walk on the moon," Keyes said. "I think this shows that Hamilton has many intelligent, long-serving members of parliament who are e being recognized for their skills. Our hometown has to be very proud of the fact that we can produce two ministers out of one town for Canada. It's marvellous." Source.

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