Hugh O'Neil
Belleville-Trenton-based Hugh O’Neil was appointed to the Ontario Arts Council’s 
Board of Directors in April 2010. In addition to his 20-year political career, Mr. O’Neil’s professional background includes work as an elementary school teacher and real estate broker.
The former MPP for Quinte held cabinet positions in the Peterson government of the late 1980s and early 1990s, including Minister of Industry, Trade and Technology, Minister of Mines, Minister of Tourism and Recreation, and Minister of Culture and Communications.
He has been honorary chair with several organizations including the Quinte Ballet School of Canada, the Loyalist College Foundation, the Lung Association and the Belleville Festival of Trees’ campaign in support of the Quinte Arts Council. Mr. O’Neil is also a former vice-chair of the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
He is an honorary patron of the Quinte Symphony Orchestra and was an Honorary Colonel in the Canadian Armed Forces.
In recognition of his accomplishments, Loyalist College awarded him an honary diploma in Applied Arts and Technology in 1990. Mr. O’Neil is also the recipient of the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of Confederation awarded by the Governor General and of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Medal. He is currently involved with his family’s business in commercial and residential properties.