Meet the Team

Michael Chan was elected to the Ontario Legislature in a February 2007 by-election and, soon after, joined the Ontario Cabinet as Minister of Revenue. He served in that position until the general provincial election in October 2007.

Following his re-election, Michael was appointed the provincial Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, where he served from October 2007 to January 2010. As Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, Michael redesigned the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) to create an investment component and an international student category, enhancing Ontario’s ability to attract jobs and skilled employees. Michael also greatly expanded the province’s bridge training programs that assist newcomers with economic integration and maximize the benefits of immigration.

Michael currently serves as the provincial Minister of Tourism and Culture. The Tourism portfolio promotes Ontario’s natural beauty, vibrant cities and towns, and thriving cultural attractions to visitors from all over the world. The Ministry of Culture works with Ontario’s cultural industries to create new jobs and opportunities for Ontario families.

Michael also currently serves as a member of the Treasury Board/Management Board of Cabinet and the Economic, Environmental and Resources Policy Committee. Michael has been an active member of the Cabinet Committee on Poverty Reduction, working closely with his colleagues and community organizations to develop a strategy whereby every Ontarian can benefit from our province’s prosperity.

Before beginning his political career, Michael owned an insurance brokerage in Markham – with 30 employees and hundreds of agents. He was a member of the Markham Board of Trade and has sat on the Advisory Council for the Ontario Medal for Firefighters Bravery. Michael is also an honorary president of the Toronto Chinese Senior Health and Recreation Association.

Michael keeps himself very active, working diligently on behalf of one of the most diverse communities in North America. He hosts an Annual Summer Community BBQ and an Annual Community Holiday Reception & Food Drive, and participates in many local events including multicultural and service organization celebrations, school visits, tree plantings, and festivals.

Michael has been a strong advocate at Queen’s Park for the much-needed Markham Stouffville Hospital expansion and is thrilled that 2010 is the target year for shovels in the ground.

Michael originally emigrated from Hong Kong almost forty years ago. He has lived in Markham since 1995 with his wife, Elaine, and their two sons, Alex and Brian.