PARLINFO

Federal government Section
Ministerial Resignations
"Resignation" has been defined as the discontinuation of a Minister's presence in the Cabinet before dissolution of Parliament, or before the end of a Ministry. Those Ministers who were in the Cabinet but who subsequently resigned as a result of failing to hold a seat in Parliament, have not been included. The same is true for those not included when a new Parliament was summoned. The following sources have been used in the making of this compilation: Guide to Canadian Ministries, July 1, 1867 - April 1973, and Supplement; Canadian Directory of Parliament, 1867-1967; House of Commons Debates and Journals; Senate Debates and Journals; Canada Gazette; Dominion Annual Register and Canadian Annual Review; Canadian News Facts; and various other biographical sources.
Search Criteria
 
^ 28th Ministry (2006.02.06 - )
Prime Minister:
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Bernier, Maxime Minister of Foreign Affairs Resignation. (PMO-Release, 26.05.2008) 2007.08.14 - 2008.05.26
Chong, Michael D. President of the Queen's Privy Council Resignation. Disagrees with Prime Minister Stephen Harper's motion on Québécois as a nation. (CBC News, 28.11.2006) 2006.02.06 - 2006.11.26
Minister for Sport Resignation. Disagrees with Prime Minister Stephen Harper's motion on Québécois as a nation. (CBC News, 28.11.2006) 2006.02.06 - 2006.11.26
Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs Resignation. Disagrees with Prime Minister Stephen Harper's motion on Québécois as a nation. (CBC News, 28.11.2006) 2006.02.06 - 2006.11.26
Duncan, John Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Resignation (PMO-Release, 15.02.2013) 2011.05.18 - 2013.02.14
Guergis, Helena Minister of State (Status of Women) Resignation. Was the subject of inquiry concerning allegations regarding her conduct. (PMO-Release, 09.04.2010) 2008.10.30 - 2010.04.08
Oda, Bev Minister for International Cooperation Resignation (PMO-Release, 03.07.2012) 2007.08.14 - 2012.07.03
Penashue, Peter President of the Queen's Privy Council Resignation (PMO-Release, 14.03.2013) 2011.05.18 - 2013.03.14
Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs Resignation (PMO-Release, 14.03.2013) 2011.05.18 - 2013.03.14
Prentice, Jim Minister of the Environment Resignation. Appointed vice-chairman and senior executive vice-president of the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, January 1, 2011.. (PMO-Release, 04.11.2010; Commons Debates, 04.11.2010) 2008.10.30 - 2010.11.04
Thompson, Gregory Francis Minister of Veterans Affairs Resignation. Would not be running in the next federal election, wished to step down prior to a cabinet shuffle. (PMO-Release, 16.01.2010; Waterloo Region record, 18.01.2010) 2006.02.06 - 2010.01.16

^ 27th Ministry (2003.12.12 - 2006.02.05)
Prime Minister:
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Comuzzi, Joseph R. (Joe) Minister of State (Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario) Resignation. Disagrees with the government's same-sex marriage bill. (CBC News, 28.06.2005) 2003.12.12 - 2005.06.27
Sgro, Judy Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Resignation. Amid allegations of improprieties. Allegations were later disproven and subsequently withdrawn by the accuser. (Toronto Star,14.01.2005) 2003.12.12 - 2005.01.13

^ 26th Ministry (1993.11.04 - 2003.12.11)
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Eggleton, Art Minister of National Defence Resignation. (PMO-Release, 26.05.2002; Commons Debates, 27.05.2002; National Post, 27.05.2002) 1997.06.11 - 2002.05.25
Finestone, Sheila Secretary of State (Multiculturalism) (Status of Women) Resignation. To make room for new members within the Cabinet. (PMO-Release, 25.01.1996) 1993.11.04 - 1996.01.24
MacAulay, Lawrence Solicitor General of Canada Resignation. Was the subject of inquiry concerning allegations of conflict of interest. (PMO-Release, 22.10.2002) 1998.11.23 - 2002.10.21
MacLaren, Roy Minister for International Trade Resignation. To make room for new members within the Cabinet. Appointed advisor to the Prime Minister prior to his nomination as Canadian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, June 23, 1996. (PMO-Release, 25.01.1996; Order in Council P.C. 1996-0805) 1995.05.13 - 1996.01.24
Marchi, Sergio Minister for International Trade Resignation. Appointed Ambassador to the World Trade Organization, August 3, 1999. (PMO-Release, 03.08.1999) 1997.06.11 - 1999.08.02
Ouellet, André Minister of Foreign Affairs Resignation. To make room for new members within the Cabinet. Appointed Chairman of the Canada Post Corporation, January 25, 1996. (PMO-Release, 25.01.1996) 1995.05.13 - 1996.01.24
Scott, Andy Solicitor General of Canada Resignation. Because of controversy surrounding the APEC inquiry as a result of comments he made. (Newsworld Online, 23.11.1998) 1997.06.11 - 1998.11.22
Tobin, Brian Vincent Minister of Industry Resignation. To spend more time with his family. (Montreal Gazette, 15.01.2002) 2000.10.17 - 2002.01.14
Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Resignation. Enters provincial politics (Newfoundland). Becomes leader of the Liberal Party of Newfoundland and Premier of Newfoundland. (The Citizen, 09.01.1996) 1993.11.04 - 1996.01.08

^ 24th Ministry (1984.09.17 - 1993.06.24)
Prime Minister:
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Bissonnette, André Minister of State (Transport) Resignation. Was the subject of a RCMP investigation into apparent land speculation in his riding. (Commons Debates, 19.01.1987) 1986.06.30 - 1987.01.18
Blais-Grenier, Suzanne Minister of State (Transport) Resignation. Publicly condemns her own government for allowing the closure of a Montreal oil refinery (Gulf) (Ottawa Citizen, 02.01.1986) 1985.08.20 - 1985.12.31
Bouchard, Benoît Minister of National Health and Welfare Resignation. Appointed Canada's Ambassador to France, June 18, 1993. (Ottawa Citizen, 18.01.1993; Commons Debates Index, 1991-93) 1991.04.21 - 1993.06.17
Bouchard, Lucien Minister of the Environment Resignation. Disagrees with the governmment's proposals to amend the Meech Lake Accord. (Commons Debates, 22.05.1990) 1989.01.30 - 1990.05.21
Charest, Jean J. Minister of State (Youth), Minister of State (Fitness and Amateur Sport) and Deputy Leader of the Government in the House of Commons Resignation. Tried to speak to a judge about a case on which the judge was ruling. (Commons Debates, 24.01.1990) 1988.03.31 - 1990.01.23
Coates, Robert Carman Minister of National Defence Resignation. Placed himself in a compromising situation while on business as Minister of National Defence in West Germany. (Commons Debates, 12.02.1985; Ottawa Citizen, 13.02.1985) 1984.09.17 - 1985.02.12
Côté, Michel Minister of Supply and Services Resignation. Contravened conflict of interest guidelines by failing to report a personal loan. (Commons Debates, 03.02.1988) 1987.08.27 - 1988.02.02
Crombie, David Edward Secretary of State of Canada Resignation. Appointed Chairman of the Royal Commission on the Future of the Toronto Waterfront, March 31, 1988. (The Globe and Mail, 01.04.1988) 1986.06.30 - 1988.03.30
de Cotret, Robert René Secretary of State of Canada Resignation. Would not be running in the next election, said he wished to step down prior to a cabinet shuffle. (Ottawa Citizen, 05.01.1993) 1991.04.21 - 1993.01.03
Epp, Arthur Jacob (Jake) Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources Resignation. Would not be running in the next election, said he wished to step down prior to a cabinet shuffle. (Ottawa Citizen, 05.01.1993) 1989.01.30 - 1993.01.03
Fraser, John Allen Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Resignation. Because of controversy surrounding the sale of tainted tuna cans. (Commons Debates, 18.09.1985-24.09.1985; P.M.O. Release, 23.09.1985) 1984.09.17 - 1985.09.23
La Salle, Roch Minister of State (Without Portfolio) Resignation. Was the subject of various incidents embarrassing to the government. (La Presse, Globe and Mail, 20.02.1987) 1986.06.30 - 1987.02.19
Masse, Marcel Minister of National Defence Resignation. Would not be running in the next election, said he wished to step down prior to a cabinet shuffle. (Ottawa Citizen, 05.01.1993) 1991.04.21 - 1993.01.03
Minister of Communications Resignation. Being the subject of inquiry concerning an alleged violation of the Canada Elections Act, resigns to protect the integrity of the Government. (Commons Debates, 25.09.1985) 1984.09.17 - 1985.09.25
Merrithew, Gerald Stairs Minister of Veterans Affairs Resignation. Would not be running in the next election, said he wished to step down prior to a cabinet shuffle. (Ottawa Citizen, 05.01.1993) 1988.12.12 - 1993.01.03
Redway, Alan Minister of State (Housing) Resignation. Was the subject of inquiry concerning an alleged violation of the Aeronautics Act at Ottawa International Airport. (Globe and Mail, Le Droit, 16.03.1991) 1989.01.30 - 1991.03.14
Stevens, Sinclair McKnight Minister of Regional Industrial Expansion Resignation. Was the subject of inquiry concerning allegations of conflict of interest. (Commons Debates, 12.05.1986) 1984.09.17 - 1986.05.12
Valcourt, Bernard Minister of Consumer and Corporate Affairs Resignation. Pleaded guilty to a drinking and driving offence. (Globe and Mail, Le Droit, 03.08.1989) 1989.01.30 - 1989.07.04
Winegard, William C. Minister for Science Resignation. Would not be running in the next election, said he wished to step down prior to a cabinet shuffle. (Ottawa Citizen, 05.01.1993) 1990.02.23 - 1993.01.03

^ 22nd Ministry (1980.03.03 - 1984.06.29)
Prime Minister:
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Simmons, Roger Minister of State (Mines) Resignation. On August 22, 1983, said to have resigned for personal reasons. On September 12, 1983, in the House of Commons, confirmed he was under investigation by the Dept. of National Revenue. (Ottawa Citizen, 23.08.1983; Commons Debate, 12.09.1983) 1983.08.12 - 1983.08.22

^ 20th Ministry (1968.04.20 - 1979.06.03)
Prime Minister:
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Basford, Stanley Ronald Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Resignation. For personal reasons. (C.N.F., 1978, p. 1996-3) 1975.09.26 - 1978.08.02
Benson, Edgar John Minister of National Defence Resignation. Appointed President of the Canadian Transport Commission, September 1, 1972. (C.N.F., 1972, p. 884-1; Canada Gazette, pt.I, 07.10.1972) 1972.01.28 - 1972.08.31
Cadieux, Léo Alphonse Joseph Minister of National Defence Resignation. Appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Canada to France, July 24, 1970. (Canada Gazette, pt. I, 24.10.1970) 1968.04.20 - 1970.09.16
Fox, Francis Solicitor General of Canada Resignation. For reasons of a private nature. (Commons Debates, 30.01.1978) 1976.09.14 - 1978.01.27
Greene, John James Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources Resignation. For health reasons. (Commons Debates, 18.02.1972) 1968.07.06 - 1972.01.27
Hellyer, Paul Theodore Minister of Transport Resignation. Disagrees with the government's housing policy. (Commons Debates, 24.04.1969) 1968.04.20 - 1969.04.29
Macdonald, Donald Stovel Minister of Finance Resignation. For personal and family reasons. Announced his resignation September 6, 1977 but stayed on until a new minister was appointed. (C.N.F., 1977, p. 1816-2) 1975.09.26 - 1977.09.15
Marchand, Jean Minister of the Environment Resignation. In protest against the government's handling of the air controllers' strike. (C.N.F., 1976, p. 1593-3) 1976.01.22 - 1976.06.30
McIlraith, George James Solicitor General of Canada Resignation. For personal and health reasons. (Commons Debates, 13 and 14.01.1971) 1968.07.06 - 1970.12.21
Munro, John Carr Minister of Labour Resignation. For reasons of a private nature in violation of ministerial rules of conduct established by the Prime Minister. (C.N.F., 1978, p. 2001-2) 1972.11.27 - 1978.09.08
Ouellet, André Minister of Consumer and Corporate Affairs Resignaton. Following comments made on the acquittal by Mr. Justice Mackay, of the sugar companies accused of forming cartels and combines, Mr. Justice Mackay cited him for contempt of Court. He was found guilty of that charge by Associate Chief Justice Hugessen. He immediately appealed the decision and resigned because he didn't want his appeal to be heard in an atmosphere of political partisanship. (Commons Debates, 16.03.1976) 1974.08.08 - 1976.03.15
Pelletier, Gérard Minister of Communications Resignation. Appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Canada to France, August 29, 1975. (Commons Debates, Index 1974-76) 1972.11.27 - 1975.08.28
Richardson, James Armstrong Minister of National Defence Resignation. Opposes the entrenchment of language rights in the constitution and generally disagrees with the government's official languages policy. (Sessional Paper # 302-1/190) 1972.11.27 - 1976.10.12
Sharp, Mitchell William President of the Privy Council Resignation. Wants to make room for younger ministers. (Montreal Star, 13.09.1976) 1974.08.08 - 1976.09.13
Turner, John Napier Minister of Finance Démission. Wants to return to private life. (C.N.F., 1975, p. 1441-1) 1972.01.28 - 1975.09.09

^ 19th Ministry (1963.04.22 - 1968.04.19)
Prime Minister:
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Benidickson, William Moore Minister of Mines and Technical Surveys Resignation. Called to the Senate, July 7, 1965. (C.D.P.; Journals of the Senate, 18.01.1966) 1963.04.22 - 1965.07.06
Cardin, Louis-Joseph-Lucien Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Resignation. For health reasons and to return to his law practice. (C.N.F., 1967, p. 49-3) 1965.07.07 - 1967.04.03
Chevrier, Lionel Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Resignation. Appointed High Commissioner for Canada in London, February 6, 1964. (C.D.P.; Commons Debates, 19.02.1964) 1963.04.22 - 1964.02.02
Denis, Azellus Postmaster General Resignation. Called to the Senate, February 3, 1964. (C.D.P.; Commons Debates, 19.02.1964; Journals of the Senate, 18.02.1964) 1963.04.22 - 1964.02.02
Deschatelets, Jean-Paul Minister of Public Works Resignation. For personal reasons. (Commons Debates, 16.02.1965) 1963.04.22 - 1965.02.11
Dupuis, Yvon Minister Without Portfolio Resignation. Accused of exerting undue influence in the matter of a provincial race track project in St. Luc, in his constituency of St. Jean-Iberville-Napierville (Quebec). (Commons Debates, 16.02.1965) 1964.02.03 - 1965.01.21
Gordon, Walter Lockhart President of the Privy Council Resignation. Wished to resign his seat in the Commons but reluctantly accepted a position in the Cabinet at the request of the Prime Minister. Resigned as soon as the report of the Task Force on the Structure of Canadian Industry, prepared for the Privy Council Office, was submitted. (Pearson, L.B. "Mike." 1965. v.3, pp. 226-35) 1967.04.04 - 1968.03.10
Minister of Finance and Receiver General Resignation. In his letter of resignation to the Prime Minister, stated that he "... gave (the PM) bad advice, both as a minister and as a campaign chairman" in recommending "to call an election on the grounds (they) needed a majority to govern the country ..." (C.D.P.; C.A.R., 1965) 1963.04.22 - 1965.11.10
LaMarsh, Julia Verlyn (Judy) Secretary of State of Canada Resignation. Would never serve in a Trudeau cabinet. (C.N.F., 1968, p. 50-1) 1965.12.18 - 1968.04.09
Lamontagne, Maurice Secretary of State of Canada Resignation. Following unfounded Opposition charges linking Lamontagne and Tremblay to the so-called furniture scandal (bankruptcy in Montreal of the Selkind brothers) the Prime Minister found that "they had been so undermined as politicians that their usefulness had been practically destroyed and regretfully accepted their resignation. (C.A.R., 1965; Pearson, L.B. "Mike." 1965. pp. 161-2, 214-15) 1964.02.03 - 1965.12.17
Macdonald, William Ross Leader of the Government in the Senate 1963.04.22 - 1964.02.02
Minister Without Portfolio Resignation. Wants to make room for younger ministers. (La Presse, 24.02.1965) 1963.04.22 - 1964.02.02
Pickersgill, John Whitney Minister of Transport Resignation. Appointed President of the Canadian Transport Commission, September 19, 1967. (Commons Debates, 25.09.1967; Canada Gazette, pt.I, 30.09.1967) 1964.02.03 - 1967.09.18
Tremblay, René Postmaster General Resignation. Following unfounded Opposition charges linking Lamontagne and Tremblay to the so-called furniture scandal (bankruptcy in Montreal of the Selkind brothers) the Prime Minister found that "they had been so undermined as politicians that their usefulness had been practically destroyed and regretfully accepted their resignation. (C.A.R., 1965; Pearson, L.B. "Mike". 1965. pp. 161-2, 214-5) 1965.02.15 - 1965.12.17
Winters, Robert Henry Minister of Trade and Commerce Resignation. To contest the Liberal Party leadership. Submitted his resignation on February 28, 1968, but did not expect the Prime Minister to accept it until dissolution. (Commons Debates, 29.02.1968; Pearson, L.B. "Mike." 1975. vol. 3, p. 324) 1966.01.04 - 1968.03.29

^ 18th Ministry (1957.06.21 - 1963.04.21)
Prime Minister:
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Brooks, Alfred Johnson Minister of Veterans Affairs Resignation. Called to the Senate, September 12, 1960. (Commons Debates, 17.11.1960; Journals of the Senate, 17.11.1960) 1957.06.21 - 1960.10.10
Comtois, Paul Minister of Mines and Technical Surveys Resignation. Appointed Lieutenant-Governor of Quebec, October 6, 1961. (C.D.P.; Canada Gazette, pt.I, 21.10.1961) 1957.08.07 - 1961.10.06
Courtemanche, Henri Secretary of State of Canada Resignation. For health reasons. Called to the Senate, January 20, 1960. (Commons Debates, 19.01.1960; C.D.P.; Journals of the Senate, 20.01.1960) 1958.05.12 - 1960.01.19
Harkness, Douglas Scott Minister of National Defence Resignation. Difference of opinion on a matter of principle concerning the Government's defence policy, specifically the nuclear arms question. (Commons Debates, 04.02.1963) 1960.10.11 - 1963.02.03
Macdonnell, James MacKerras Minister Without Portfolio Resignation. For health reasons. (Commons Debates, 14.01.1960) 1957.06.21 - 1959.08.19
Pearkes, George Randolph Minister of National Defence Resignation. Appointed Lieutenant-Governor of British Columbia, October 12,1960. (C.D.P.; Commons Debates, 17.11.1960; Canada Gazette, pt.I, 22.10.1960) 1957.06.21 - 1960.10.10

^ 17th Ministry (1948.11.15 - 1957.06.20)
Prime Minister:
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Abbott, Douglas Charles Minister of Finance and Receiver General Resignation. Appointed Puisne Judge of the Supreme Court of Canada, July 1, 1954. (C.D.P.; Canada Gazette, pt.I) 1948.11.15 - 1954.06.30
Bradley, Frederick Gordon Secretary of State of Canada Resignation. Called to the Senate, June 12, 1953. (C.D.P.; Journals of the Senate, 12.11.1953) 1949.04.01 - 1953.06.11
Chevrier, Lionel Minister of Transport Resignation. Appointed President of the St-Lawrence Seaway Authority, July 1, 1954. (C.D.P.; Canada Gazette, pt.I, 17.07.1954) 1948.11.15 - 1954.06.30
Claxton, Brooke Minister of National Defence Resignation. Appointed Canadian Vice-President of Metropolitan Insurance Co., August 1, 1954. (C.D.P.; Commons Debate, 07.01.1955) 1948.11.15 - 1954.06.30
Fournier, Alphonse Minister of Public Works Resignation. Appointed Puisne Judge of the Exchequer Court of Canada, June 12, 1953. (C.D.P.; Canada Gazette, pt.I, 27.06.1953) 1948.11.15 - 1953.06.11
MacKinnon, James Angus Minister Without Portfolio Resignation. Decided to retire. (Pickersgill, J.W. "My years with Louis St-Laurent." 1975. pp. 104-05) 1949.04.01 - 1950.12.13
Mayhew, Robert Wellington Minister of Fisheries Resignation. Appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Canada to Japan, October 15, 1952. (Canada Gazette, pt.I, ptie I, 08.11.1952.) 1948.11.15 - 1952.10.14
Rinfret, Édouard-Gabriel Postmaster General Resignation. Appointed Puisne Judge, Court of Queen's Bench, Quebec, February 13, 1952. (C.D.P.; Canada Gazette, pt. I, 23.02.1952) 1949.08.25 - 1952.02.12

^ 16th Ministry (1935.10.23 - 1948.11.14)
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Casgrain, Pierre-François Secretary of State of Canada Resignation. Appointed Puisne Judge of the Superior Court of Quebec, December 15, 1941. (Canada Gazette, pt.I, 27.12.1941) 1940.05.09 - 1941.12.14
Dunning, Charles Avery Minister of Finance and Receiver General Resignation. For health reasons. (Commons Debates, 07.09.1939) 1935.10.23 - 1939.09.05
Elliott, John Campbell Postmaster General Resignation. For health reasons. (Commons Debates, 23.01.1939) 1935.10.23 - 1939.01.22
Glen, James Allison Minister of Mines and Resources Resignation. For health reasons. (Commons Debates, 11.06.1948) 1945.04.18 - 1948.06.10
Ilsley, James Lorimer Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Resignation. To give attention to his personal affairs. (Commons Debates, 30.06.1948) 1946.12.10 - 1948.06.30
Mackenzie, Ian Alistair Minister of Veterans Affairs Resignation. For health reasons. Called to the Senate, January 18, 1948. (Commons Debates, 26.01.1948) (Journals of the Senate, 27.01.1948) 1944.10.18 - 1948.01.18
Power, Charles Gavan Minister of National Defence for Air and Associate Minister of National Defence Resignation. Disagrees with the government's policy concerning the National Resources Mobilization Act. (Commons Debates, 27.11.1944) 1940.05.23 - 1944.11.26
Ralston, James Layton Minister of National Defence Resignation. Advised the Prime Minister to depart from the policy of the voluntary system because of a shortage of reinforcements overseas. Advice rejected. (Commons Debates, 29.11.1944) 1940.07.05 - 1944.11.01
Thorson, Joseph Thorarinn Minister of National War Services Resignation. Appointed President of the Exchequer Court of Canada, October 6, 1942. (C.D.P.; Canada Gazette, pt.I, 17.10.1942) 1941.06.11 - 1942.10.05

^ 15th Ministry (1930.08.07 - 1935.10.22)
Prime Minister:
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Duranleau, Alfred Minister of Marine Resignation. Appointed Puisne Judge, Superior Court of Quebec, July 20, 1935. (C.D.P.; Commons Debates, 11.02.1936) 1930.08.07 - 1935.07.19
Guthrie, Hugh Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Resignation. Appointed Chief Commissioner of the Board of Railway Commissioners for Canada, August 12, 1935. (C.D.P.; Commons Debates, 11.02.1936) 1930.08.07 - 1935.08.11
Macdonald, John Alexander Minister Without Portfolio Resignation. Called to the Senate, July 20, 1935. (C.D.P.; Commons Debates, 11.02.1936) 1930.08.07 - 1935.08.13
MacLaren, Murray Minister of Pensions and National Health Resignation. Because of the appointment of Richard Burpee Hanson as Minister of Trade and Commerce, also of New Brunswick, resigned to preserve the balance of provincial representation in the Ministry. (C.A.R., 1934, p.32) 1930.08.07 - 1934.11.16
Matthews, Robert Charles Minister of National Revenue Resignation. For health reasons. (C.A.R., 1935-1936) 1933.12.06 - 1935.08.13
Robertson, Gideon Decker Minister of Labour Resignation. For health reasons. (Commons Debates, 05.02.1932) 1930.08.07 - 1932.02.02
Ryckman, Edmond Baird Minister of National Revenue Resignation. For health reasons. (Commons Debates, 26.01.1934) 1930.08.07 - 1933.12.01
Sauvé, Arthur Postmaster General Resignation. Called to the Senate, July 20, 1935. (C.D.P.; C.A.R., 1935-1936; Commons Debates, 11.02.1936) 1930.08.07 - 1935.08.13
Stevens, Henry Herbert Minister of Trade and Commerce Resignation. For health reasons and difference of opinion with the Prime Minister who condemns certain of his actions as Chairman of the Royal Commission on Price Spreads and Mass Buying. (C.A.R., 1934; Commons Debates, 21.01,1935, 12.04.1935) 1930.08.07 - 1934.10.26

^ 14th Ministry (1926.09.25 - 1930.08.06)
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Forke, Robert Minister of Immigration and Colonization Resignation. Called to the Senate, December 30, 1929. (Commons Debates, 24.02.1930) 1926.09.25 - 1929.12.29

^ 12th Ministry (1921.12.29 - 1926.06.28)
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Bureau, Jacques Minister of Customs and Excise Resignation. Prime Minister asked him to give back his portfolio for reasons of health, and in recognition of his services appointed him to the Senate, September 5, 1925. (Commons Debates, 24.06.1926) 1921.12.29 - 1925.09.04
Fielding, William Stevens Minister of Finance and Receiver General Resignation. For health reasons. (Commons Debates, 23.04.1926) 1921.12.29 - 1925.09.04
Gouin, Lomer Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Resignation. For health reasons. (Commons Debates, 28.02.1924) 1921.12.29 - 1924.01.03
Graham, George Perry Minister Without Portfolio Resignation. Appointed Chairman of the Tariff Advisory Board, April 7, 1926. (Order in Council P.C. 1926-530; Commons Debates, 25.03.1926, 20.04.1926) 1926.02.20 - 1926.04.06
McKenzie, Daniel Duncan Solicitor General of Canada Resignation. Appointed Puisne Judge of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia, April 11, 1923. (C.D.P.; Commons Debates, 12 and 13.04.1923) 1921.12.29 - 1923.04.10
McMurray, Edward James Solicitor General of Canada Resignation. Over matters of a professional and private nature. (Commons Debates, 22.05.1925) 1923.11.14 - 1925.05.22

^ 10th Ministry (1917.10.12 - 1920.07.09)
Prime Minister:
Government Party:
Unionist (Conservative and Liberal)

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Burrell, Martin Minister of Customs and Inland Revenue Resignation. Appointed Parliamentary Librarian, July 10, 1920. (C.D.P.) 1919.12.31 - 1920.07.07
Carvell, Frank Broadstreet Minister of Public Works Resignation. Appointed Chief Commissioner of the Board of Railway Commissioners for Canada, August 2, 1919. (C.D.P.) 1917.10.13 - 1919.08.01
Crerar, Thomas Alexander Minister of Agriculture Resignation. Disagrees with the government's budget in particular the fiscal policy. (Commons Debates, 06 and 11.06.1919) 1917.10.12 - 1919.06.11
Crothers, Thomas Wilson Minister of Labour Resignation. For health reasons. (Commons Debates, 03.03.1919) 1917.10.12 - 1918.11.06
Maclean, Alexander Kenneth Minister Without Portfolio Resignation. Having agreed to serve in a Unionist government for the duration of the war, he re-alligned himself with the Liberal Party in 1920 and resigned. (C.A.R., 1920, pp. 392,399) 1917.10.23 - 1920.02.24
Mewburn, Sydney Chilton Minister of Militia and Defence Resignation. With the termination of the war and the task to carry out the problem of demobilization almost completed; "feels that his contract has terminated and that the administration of the department should be handed over to someone else." (Commons Debates, 15.03.1920) 1917.10.12 - 1920.01.15
White, William Thomas Minister of Finance and Receiver General Assumed the functions of Prime Minister in the absence of Sir Robert Borden in attendance at the Paris Peace Conference, January to May 1919.
Resignation. For health reasons and the desire to return to private business.
(C.A.R., 1919)
1917.10.12 - 1919.08.01

^ 9th Ministry (1911.10.10 - 1917.10.11)
Prime Minister:
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Hughes, Samuel Minister of Militia and Defence Resignation. Asked to resign over a difference of opinion concerning the control and co-ordination of Canadian military interest in England. (Hutchison, B. "Mr. Prime Minister, 1867-1964." 1964. pp. 158-61) 1911.10.10 - 1916.10.12
Monk, Frederick Debartzch Minister of Public Works Resignation. Because the "Government decided not to institute a plebiscite on the question of a naval contribution." (Commons Debates, 26.11.1912) 1911.10.10 - 1912.10.28
Nantel, Wilfrid Bruno Minister of Inland Revenue Resignation. Appointed Deputy Chief Commissioner of the Board of Railway Commissioners for Canada, October 20, 1914. (C.D.P.; Commons Debates, 04.02.1915) 1911.10.10 - 1914.10.19
Pelletier, Louis-Philippe Postmaster General Resignation. For health reasons.
Appointed Puisne Judge of the Quebec Superior Court, November 18, 1914.
(Commons Debates, 16.02.1915; C.D.P.)
1911.10.10 - 1914.10.19
Rogers, Robert Minister of Public Works Resignation. Disagrees with the Government's desire to form a coalition between the Liberals and Conservatives. (Commons Debates, 21.08.1917) 1912.10.29 - 1917.08.22

^ 8th Ministry (1896.07.11 - 1911.10.06)
Prime Minister:
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Bernier, Michel Esdras Minister of Inland Revenue Resignation. Appointed Deputy Chief Commissioner, Board of Railway Commissioners for Canada, February 1, 1904. (C.D.P.; Commons Debates, 10.03.1904) 1900.06.22 - 1904.01.18
Blair, Andrew George Minister of Railways and Canals Resignation. Disagrees with the policy concerning the transcontinental railway project. (Commons Debates, 16.07.1903) 1896.07.20 - 1903.07.20
Davies, Louis Henry Minister of Marine and Fisheries Resignation. Appointed Puisne Judge of the Supreme Court of Canada, September 25, 1901. (Commons Debates, 06.01.1902) 1896.07.13 - 1901.09.24
Emmerson, Henry Robert Minister of Railways and Canals Resignation. Accused of being in a hotel in the city of Montreal with a person of ill-repute. Resigns not to embarrass the Prime Minister. (Commons Debates, 02.04.1907) 1904.01.15 - 1907.04.02
Fitzpatrick, Charles Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Resignation. Appointed Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada, June 4, 1906. (C.D.P.) 1902.02.11 - 1906.06.03
Hyman, Charles Smith Minister of Public Works Resignation. For health reasons. (C.A.R., 1907; Commons Debates, 1906-07) 1905.05.22 - 1907.08.29
Joly de Lotbinière, Henri Gustave Minister of Inland Revenue Resignation. Appointed Lieutenant-Governor of British Columbia, June 22, 1900. (C.D.P.) 1897.06.30 - 1900.06.21
Mills, David Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Resignation. Appointed Puisne Judge, Supreme Court of Canada, February 8, 1902. (C.D.P.) 1897.11.18 - 1902.02.07
Mowat, Oliver Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Resignation. Appointed Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario, November 18, 1897. (C.D.P.) 1896.07.13 - 1897.11.17
Tarte, Joseph Israël Minister of Public Works Resignation. Disagrees with the government's tariff policy. (Commons Debates, 18.03.1903) 1896.07.13 - 1902.10.21

^ 6th Ministry (1894.12.21 - 1896.04.27)
Prime Minister:
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Angers, Auguste Réal Minister of Agriculture Resignation. Owing to differences with his colleagues on the Manitoba school question. (Morgan, H.J. "The Canadian men and women of the time." 1912. p. 27) 1894.12.21 - 1895.07.12
Dickey, Arthur Rupert Minister of Militia and Defence Resignation. Dissatisfied with Prime Minister Mackenzie Bowell's leadership, resigned with 6 other Cabinet members to force the Prime Minister to resign. On January 15, 1896, the seven members resumed their ministerial responsibilities in exchange for the Prime Minister’s resignation at the end of the session. (Prime Ministers of Canada, 1867-1967; Commons Debates, 07.01.1896-15.01.1896) 1895.03.26 - 1896.01.05
Foster, George Eulas Minister of Finance and Receiver General Resignation. Dissatisfied with Prime Minister Mackenzie Bowell's leadership, resigned with 6 other Cabinet members to force the Prime Minister to resign. On January 15, 1896, the seven members resumed their ministerial responsibilities in exchange for the Prime Minister’s resignation at the end of the session. (Prime Ministers of Canada, 1867-1967; Commons Debates, 07.01.1896-15.01.1896) 1894.12.21 - 1896.01.05
Haggart, John Graham Minister of Railways and Canals Resignation. Dissatisfied with Prime Minister Mackenzie Bowell's leadership, resigned with 6 other Cabinet members to force the Prime Minister to resign. On January 15, 1896, the seven members resumed their ministerial responsibilities in exchange for the Prime Minister’s resignation at the end of the session. (Prime Ministers of Canada, 1867-1967.; Commons Debates, 07.01.1896-15.01.1896) 1894.12.21 - 1896.01.05
Ives, William Bullock Minister of Trade and Commerce Resignation. Dissatisfied with Prime Minister Mackenzie Bowell's leadership, resigned with 6 other Cabinet members to force the Prime Minister to resign. On January 15, 1896, the seven members resumed their ministerial responsibilities in exchange for the Prime Minister’s resignation at the end of the session. (Prime Ministers of Canada, 1867-1967; Commons Debates, 07.01.1896-15.01.1896) 1894.12.21 - 1896.01.05
Montague, Walter Humphries Minister of Agriculture Resignation. Dissatisfied with Prime Minister Mackenzie Bowell's leadership, resigned with 6 other Cabinet members to force the Prime Minister to resign. On January 15, 1896, the seven members resumed their ministerial responsibilities in exchange for the Prime Minister’s resignation at the end of the session. (Prime Ministers of Canada, 1867-1967.; Commons Debates, 07.01.1896-15.01.1896) 1895.12.21 - 1896.01.05
Patterson, James Colebrooke Minister Without Portfolio Resignation. Appointed Lieutenant-Governor of Manitoba, September 2, 1895. (C.D.P.; Commons Debates, 02.01.1896) 1895.03.26 - 1895.09.01
Tupper, Charles Hibbert Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Resignation. Dissatisfied with Prime Minister Mackenzie Bowell's leadership, resigned with 6 other Cabinet members to force the Prime Minister to resign. On January 15, 1896, the seven members resumed their ministerial responsibilities in exchange for the Prime Minister’s resignation at the end of the session. (Prime Ministers of Canada, 1867-1967; Commons Debates, 07.01.1896-15.01.1896) 1894.12.21 - 1896.01.05
Wood, John Fisher Controller of Customs (acting) Resignation. Dissatisfied with Prime Minister Mackenzie Bowell's leadership, resigned with 6 other Cabinet members to force the Prime Minister to resign. On January 15, 1896, the seven members resumed their ministerial responsibilities in exchange for the Prime Minister’s resignation at the end of the session. (Prime Ministers of Canada, 1867-1967.; Commons Debates, 07.01.1896-15.01.1896) 1895.12.14 - 1895.12.16

^ 4th Ministry (1891.06.16 - 1892.11.24)
Government Party:
Liberal-Conservative

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Langevin, Hector-Louis Minister of Public Works Resignation. Forced to resign following accusations of corruption involving the McGreevy brothers and the firm of Larkin, Connolly, and Co. (Commons Debates, 24.09.1891; Fraser, B.J.L. "The political career of Sir Hector Louis Langevin." 1961. pp. 125-9) 1891.06.16 - 1891.08.11

^ 3rd Ministry (1878.10.17 - 1891.06.06)
Prime Minister:
Government Party:
Liberal-Conservative

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Baby, Louis François Georges Minister of Inland Revenue Resignation. Appointed Puisne Judge of the Quebec Superior Court, October 29, 1880. (C.D.P.; D.A.R., 1880-81; Commons Debates, 09.12.1880) 1878.10.26 - 1880.10.28
Macpherson, David Lewis Minister of the Interior Resignation. For health reasons. (D.A.R., 1885) 1883.10.17 - 1885.08.04
Masson, Louis-François-Rodrigue President of the Privy Council Resignation. For health reasons. (D.A.R., 1880-81) 1880.01.16 - 1880.07.31
McDonald, James Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Resignation. Appointed Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia, May 20, 1881. (C.D.P.; Commons Debates, 09.02.1882) 1878.10.17 - 1881.05.19
McLelan, Archibald Woodbury Postmaster General Resignation. Appointed Lieutenant-Governor of Nova Scotia, July 10, 1888. (C.D.P.; Commons Debates, 31.01.1887) 1887.01.27 - 1888.07.09
Tilley, Samuel Leonard Minister of Finance and Receiver General Resignation. Appointed Lieutenant-Governor of New Brunswick, November 11, 1885. (C.D.P.; Commons Debates, 25.02.1886) 1879.05.20 - 1885.11.10
Tupper, Charles Minister of Finance and Receiver General Resignation. Re-appointed High Commissioner to Great Britain, May 23, 1888. (C.D.P.; Commons Debates, 31.01.1889) 1887.01.27 - 1888.05.22
Minister of Railways and Canals Resignation. To take up his appointment as High Commissioner to Great Britain which dated from May 30, 1883. (C.D.P.; D.A.R., 1884; Commons Debates, 29.01.1885) 1879.05.20 - 1884.05.28
Wilmot, Robert Duncan Minister Without Portfolio Resignation. Appointed Lieutenant-Governor of New Brunswick, February 11, 1880. (Canada Gazette, 12.02.1880; C.D.P.) 1878.11.08 - 1880.02.10

^ 2nd Ministry (1873.11.07 - 1878.10.08)
Prime Minister:
Government Party:

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Blake, Edward President of the Privy Council Resignation. For health reasons. (D.A.R., 1878) 1877.06.08 - 1878.01.17
Cauchon, Joseph Édouard Minister of Inland Revenue Resignation. Appointed Lieutenant-Governor of Manitoba, October 8, 1877. (C.D.P.; D.A.R., 1878; Commons Debates, 07.02.1878) 1877.06.08 - 1877.10.07
Dorion, Antoine-Aimé Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Resignation. Appointed Chief Justice of the Court of Queen's Bench, Quebec, June 1, 1874. Was administrator of the province of Quebec from November 8 to December 15, 1876. (C.D.P.; D.A.R., 1878; Commons Debates, 04.02.1875) 1873.11.07 - 1874.05.31
Fournier, Télesphore Postmaster General Resignation. Appointed Puisne Judge, Supreme Court of Canada, October 8, 1875. (C.D.P.; D.A.R., 1878) 1875.05.19 - 1875.10.07
Letellier de St-Just, Luc Minister of Agriculture Resignation. Appointed Lieutenant-Governor of Quebec, December 15, 1876. (C.D.P.; D.A.R., 1878) 1873.11.07 - 1876.12.14
Macdonald, Donald Alexander Postmaster General Resignation. Appointed Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario, May 18, 1875. (C.D.P.; D.A.R., 1878) 1873.11.07 - 1875.05.17
Ross, William Minister of Militia and Defence Resignation. Appointed Collector of Customs at Halifax, N.S., November 5, 1874. (C.D.P.; Commons Debates, 04.02.1875; Canada Gazette, 07.11.1874) 1873.11.07 - 1874.09.29
Vail, William Berrian Minister of Militia and Defence Resignation. Contravened conflict of interest rules by being a stockholder in a company which had performed printing and advertising services for the Government. (D.A.R., 1878, pp. 2-3) 1874.09.30 - 1878.01.20

^ 1st Ministry (1867.07.01 - 1873.11.05)
Prime Minister:
Government Party:
Liberal-Conservative

NamePortfolioTerm (yyyy.mm.dd)
Archibald, Adams George Secretary of State for the Provinces Resignation. Defeated in the August 7 to September 20, 1867 federal election, at once tendered his resignation. Retained his portfolio until April 1868. (Commons Debates; Pope, Sir John. "Memoirs of the Right Honourable Sir John A. Macdonald." vol. 2, pp. 3-4) 1867.07.01 - 1868.04.30
Dunkin, Christopher Minister of Agriculture Resignation. Appointed Puisne Judge, Superior Court of Quebec, October 25, 1871. (C.D.P.; D.A.R., 1878) 1869.11.16 - 1871.10.24
Galt, Alexander Tilloch Minister of Finance Resignation. Lack of support and confidence from his Cabinet colleagues who held his financial policies responsible for the collapse of the Commercial Bank. (Commons Debates, 08.11.1867) 1867.07.01 - 1867.11.07
Howe, Joseph Superintendent-General of Indian Affairs Resignation. Appointed Lieutenant-Governor of Nova Scotia, May 7, 1873. (C.D.P.) 1869.12.08 - 1873.05.06
Secretary of State for the Provinces Resignation. Appointed Lieutenant-Governor of Nova Scotia, May 7, 1873. (C.D.P.) 1869.11.16 - 1873.05.06
Howland, William Pierce Minister of Inland Revenue Resignation. Appointed Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario, July 15, 1868. (C.D.P.; D.A.R., 1878) 1867.07.01 - 1868.07.14
Kenny, Edward President of the Privy Council Resignation. Appointed Administrator of the Government of Nova Scotia. (C.D.P.; Pope, Sir Joseph. "Memoirs of the Right Honourable Sir John A. Macdonald." 1894. p. 79) 1869.11.16 - 1870.06.20
McDonald, Hugh Minister of Militia and Defence Resignation. Appointed Puisne Judge of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia, November 5, 1873. (C.D.P.) 1873.07.01 - 1873.11.04
McDougall, William Minister of Public Works Resignation. Appointed Lieutenant-Governor of Ruperts-Land and the North West Territories, September 28, 1869. (C.D.P.) 1867.07.01 - 1869.09.27
Morris, Alexander Minister of Inland Revenue Resignation. Appointed Chief Justice of the Court of Queen's Bench, Manitoba, July 2, 1872. (C.D.P.; D.A.R., 1878) 1869.11.16 - 1872.07.01
Rose, John Minister of Finance Resignation. To become a member of the well-known banking firm of Morton, Rose and Co. (Pope, Sir Joseph. "Memoirs of the Right Honourable Sir John A. Macdonald." 1894. pp. 51,70; Colins, J.E. "Life and times of the Right Honourable Sir John A. Macdonald." p. 351) 1867.11.18 - 1869.09.30
^

Updated on: 2013.03.14

Revised on: 2013.03.15

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