Caroline DiCocco is the new minister of culture in Ontario, following a cabinet shuffle by Liberal Premier Dalton McGuinty. It is the first cabinet post for DiCocco, the MPP from the southern Ontario riding of Sarnia-Lambton, since she first took office in 1999.

"She works hard, she is dedicated to the people of Ontario, and she believes passionately in the importance of public service," said McGuinty in a statement.

DiCocco replaces Madeleine Meilleur, who now heads the province's ministries for community and social services, people with disabilities, and francophone affairs.