PQ leader Jean-Franois Lise announces shadow cabinet

Newly minted Parti Qubcois leader Jean-Franois Lise named his shadow cabinet today, signalling he is serious about healing woundsby allowinghis main opponents in the divisive leadership raceto keep their main responsibilities.

LacSt-JeanMNAAlexandreCloutierwill continue in his role as education critic, andVachonMNAMartineOuelletwill continue to stick-handle the controversial taxi industry file.

Both those positions are key ones for the PQ,involvingissues in whichtheCouillardgovernment is seen as vulnerable.

"I'm very satisfied with my responsibilities," Cloutier said, on his way into the first caucus meeting Lisewas to chairas leader.

Going after key votes

Hochelaga-Maisonneuve MNA Carole Poirierone of the first caucus members to rally behindLiseafter VroniqueHivondropped out of the leadership racewill take on critic responsibilities for immigration, cultural communities and the Island of Montreal.

Poirier's files, too, are seen as critical ones for the PQas the partytriesto make inroads with voters from across the ethnically diverse island.

In addition to his duties as leader, Lise has appointed himself critic for the French language,a hefty file in and of itself for the PQ.

Here are some of Lise'sother notable appointments:

• Opposition House Leader: Pascal Brub
• Secularism & ethics critic: Agns Maltais
• Environment: Sylvain Gaudreault
• Public security: Stphane Bergeron
• Health: Diane Lamarre