Premier Announces New Ministerial Duties

Premier John Hamm today announced the next step in restructuring the provincial government, assigning new ministerial responsibilities for the province's smaller, more efficient 14 department structure.

"We've grouped similar functions, focused on providing quality services and made it easier for the public to get the information or services they need," Premier Hamm said. "The new structure offers Nova Scotians a more responsive, accountable and efficient government."

Today's announcement is a followup to actions initiated with the release in March 2000 of The Course Ahead, the province's business plan for strategically realigning 21 government departments to focus on priority demands such as health care, education and community services.

The Course Ahead reduced the number of government departments to 14 from 21 and identified organizational efficiencies by combining similar services. The realignment process has been ongoing since March and will continue in the coming months.

"These changes are designed to make the system run better and make it friendlier for Nova Scotians," said the premier. "It's also important for our employees: they can continue the transition process knowing the lines of communication and accountability are established."

The most significant changes are the establishment of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries; the Department of Environment, Labour and Regulatory Affairs; Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations; and the Treasury and Policy Board.

Ronald Russell continues as Minister of the Priorities and Planning Secretariat and retains the portfolio for Transportation and Public Works.

Ernest Fage has been named the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries and retains the portfolio for Natural Resources.

Angus MacIsaac has been named the Minister for Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, and as acting Minister for Environment, Labour and Regulatory Affairs on behalf of John Chataway.

There are no other changes in ministerial assignments relating to other departments, or for agencies, secretariats, directorates and commissions.

The ministers' new responsibilities are effective Oct. 1, 2000, with the exception of reorganization of the Priorities and Planning Secretariat as Treasury Board and Policy, which will require legislation this fall. Ministers affected by the changes will participate in the transitional process during the interim period.

Realignment of the Department of Human Resources will take place in the spring of 2001 so that the Department can focus on providing services to government employees during the period of transition.

Gordon Gillis has been named deputy minister for the Premier's Office and Communications Nova Scotia. Mr. Gillis assumes his new responsibilities immediately.

Patricia Ripley assumes responsibility for Intergovernmental Affairs immediately and will guide the reorganization of the Department which is being enhanced as part of the province's initiative to strengthen and improve communication with other jurisdictions.

Dr. Ripley remains as deputy for the Priorities and Planning Secretariat.

Doug Keefe has been named as the acting deputy minister for the Department of Justice.

Robert MacKay has been named as the premier's senior advisor on Technology and Innovation.