News Release Archive
PREMIER--PREMIER APPOINTS NEW MINISTER OF HEALTH
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Premier John Savage today announced he is appointing Jim Smith as
Nova Scotia's new minister of health.
Dr. Smith replaces Health Minister Bernie Boudreau, who will be
resigning from his position to focus on his bid to become the
next leader of the Nova Scotia Liberal party. Mr. Boudreau's
resignation takes effect at 5 p.m. Monday, June 9.
"I regret that other commitments have necessitated Mr. Boudreau's
resignation," Premier Savage said. "He has been a strong and
courageous health minister and brought a high calibre of
experience and skill to the portfolio.
"However, I understand and agree with his decision. It is
important that our health minister be in a position to focus
completely on health care priorities."
Premier Savage said he is delighted that Dr. Smith has accepted
the appointment.
"Dr. Smith has a thorough understanding of health care and
communities; he is well-known and well-regarded for his diligent
and compassionate approach to issues. I know he will be an
excellent minister of health."
Dr. Smith has been the MLA for Dartmouth East since 1984. He
practised family medicine in Dartmouth for nearly 30 years before
being appointed to the provincial cabinet in 1993. In 1985, the
Canadian College of Family Physicians presented him with the
Family Physician of the Year award.
Dr. Smith has served as minister of community services and is
currently Nova Scotia's minister of housing and municipal
affairs.
Premier Savage also announced that Allister Surette, minister of
human resources, will add minister of housing and municipal
affairs to his current portfolio.
"Mr. Surette is an exceptionally talented young minister who has
performed admirably as both deputy house leader and minister of
human resources," Premier Savage said. "I have great confidence
in his ability and appreciate his willingness to take on these
additional responsibilities."
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Contact: Ann Graham Walker
Premier's Office
902-424-2590
trp June 6, 1997 - 2:40 p.m.
