Spurway To Return As Communications Director

Peter Spurway is returning as Premier John Hamm's director of communications.

He will take over from Robert Batherson, who is leaving government for a senior public affairs position based in Halifax with Corporate Communications Limited, one of Canada's largest strategic communications and marketing firms. The change takes effect Monday, Jan. 10.

"I am delighted that Peter Spurway has agreed to return to my office to take this important job," said Premier John Hamm. "I would like to thank Rob for his five and a half years of hard work on behalf of the people of Nova Scotia. While I am sorry he has chosen to leave public service, I know how much he is looking forward to gaining valuable experience in the private sector."

An experienced communications consultant, Mr. Spurway served as the premier's communications director from July 2002 to July 2004. He has a wide range of communications experience in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors, serving as vice- president, Atlantic Canada, for Weber Shandwick, one of the world's largest communications and public affairs firms. He was also director of communications for the Nova Scotia Department of Justice and director of communications and public affairs for the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre.

Mr. Spurway is currently a senior communications counsel, associated with MT&L Public Affairs of Halifax. His work with MT&L will be suspended for the duration of his term in the Premier's Office.

A strong advocate of professional public relations development, Mr. Spurway is presently serving his second term as president of the Nova Scotia chapter of the Canadian Public Relations Society and is a member of its national board of directors.