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Member of Parliament for Parkdale-High Park Gerard Kennedy said he would draw on his experience as executive director of the Daily Bread Food Bank, a $30 million-a-year enterprise, as the newly appointed industry critic, opposing Minister of Industry Tony Clement, who Prime Minister Stephen Harper named to the post last month.

Federal Liberal leader Stephane Dion announced Friday the shadow cabinet he believes will hold the Conservative government to account and offer constructive opposition amidst a period of economic turmoil.

"This administration needs new pressure," said Kennedy in a phone interview from Ottawa earlier this week. "I think we need new ideas."

Kennedy said he would be helping this government sustain jobs locally and across the country as it navigates across this economic difficulty. The recently elected MP said although there is a learning curve, he does feel prepared for his new responsibilities.

Part of the industry critic's tasks is to not only protect Canadian jobs, but to keep Canadian businesses competitive, particularly in the struggling manufacturing sector, which the Liberals accuse Finance Minister Jim Flaherty of turning his back on.

"We need to encourage new vitality in all industry sectors to find out how to have good jobs that come from new industry available," Kennedy said, citing green technologies as an example.

It's a challenging file, in part because it includes the auto industry, admitted the veteran politician; however, Dion has confidence in his cabinet.

"The Liberal caucus is fortunate to have such an abundance of talent and expertise," said Dion in a statement. "With such a dynamic combination of knowledge, experience, youthful energy and fresh ideas, we will continue to put forward an effective, responsible and robust opposition to the minority Conservative government."

Kennedy replaces Scott Brison, who now holds the title of finance critic. Former Minister of Industry Jim Prentice has taken over the environment portfolio.

Kennedy said he will get to work right away on understanding where the money is being spent, engaging people on an on-going basis and enlisting a network of people with experience and strong opinions to make sure there is a good industrial outlook. Having a real plan and perspective is key, he said, pointing to the auto industry.

"We do not want to lose jobs to the U.S.," he said.

The industry file is a comprehensive one, Kennedy said, that encompasses programs and grants, consumer protection, micro-economic policy and tourism, among others. Part of the portfolio includes oversight of the telecommunications industry - responsible for providing Internet access and mobile phone services. It also takes in the Canadian Space Agency.

"I see people first," Kennedy told The Villager. "People need jobs. There's lots the government can do by being effective and understanding."