APPOINTMENT: Gravelle steps aside, Mauro steps up as Northern Ontario minister

[caption id="attachment_1003717188" align="alignleft" width="300"] Thunder Bay-Superior North MPP Michael Gravelle. (Photo: CBC)[/caption] TORONTO – Ontario minister of northern development and mines Michael Gravelle has stepped away from his ministerial duties, citing a long-standing battle with depression. He issued a statement announcing his decision on Feb. 13, saying he made his choice on the advice of his doctor. "It has become clear to me that it will take some time, effort, treatment and understanding to properly address this illness," Gravelle stated. Bill Mauro, MPP for Thunder Bay-Atikokan, will assume Gravelle’s ministerial duties while he is away from the legislature. Mauro will retain his role as minister of municipal affairs as well.