Deputy Ministers Handed New Assignments
Two senior deputy ministers in the provincial government have been given new assignments, Premier John Hamm announced today.
Bill Hogg, a career Nova Scotia public servant with 21 years' experience, has been appointed deputy minister of finance. Mr. Hogg was most recently deputy minister of transportation and public works. He previously served as deputy minister of natural resources, and deputy minister of supply and services. Mr. Hogg, a chartered accountant, is also a former director of audits in the provincial Auditor General's Office.
"Bill Hogg brings vast experience and proven abilities to a difficult job," said Premier Hamm. "His detailed knowledge of government operations will be invaluable to the government as we move forward both our financial and public service priorities."
Bernie Smith, former deputy finance minister, has been appointed senior consultant to the government to review and make recommendations on how the province can sustain and increase growth in the film, video, recording and music industries.
"Those sectors clearly represent an enormous economic opportunity for Nova Scotians," said Premier Hamm, noting that the annual value of the film industry alone has increased to $90 million from $7 million in the past six years. He said Mr. Smith brings imagination, judgment and experience to the task.
Mr. Smith, in addition to a long and successful public and private sector financial career, developed the Electropolis Studios soundstage in Halifax.
The premier announced that Martin Delaney will be acting deputy minister of transportation and public works. Mr. Delaney has 29 years' service with the department and its predecessors. He served most recently as a executive director of district operations.
Premier Hamm also said Mildred Royer, a former deputy minister of health, is no longer employed by the province.
"Ms. Royer served the province well, through some difficult times, as both deputy minister of human resources and of health," the premier said.
Ms. Royer received a severance package consistent with other recent packages and with the Early Departure Incentive Plan available to many government employees. As of Aug. 31, 1999, Ms. Royer was entitled to one year's salary, at $97,000.