The new MLA for Interlake has been named as a legislative assistant to Infrastructure and Transportation Minister Blaine Pedersen.

Derek Johnson's excited at the prospect, and talks about what's ahead.

"There have been lots of issues, of course, over the years, with infrastructure. One is the drain from Lake Manitoba, through Lake St. Martin, to Lake Winnipeg, to counteract the Portage Diversion, or allow some of that water to continue through the system a little quicker. So that's something that I hopefully will be part of."

Johnson feels his background as a municipal councillor during the 2011 flood will be an asset in his new role.

"I'm very familiar with Emergency Measures. I probably know a lot of the people in there on a first-name basis, so that'll be a huge asset. I'll know a big part of the crew to start off with. There are lots of things that need work on there, to continue on, and help the ratepayers of Manitoba."

Johnson's also looking forward to working with Minister Pedersen, who he describes as a great mentor.