Top Executive, Deputy Named to Board

One of the country's most experienced petroleum executives has been named to the board of Nova Scotia Resources Ltd.

Donald T. West of Calgary has agreed to become a director of the provincial Crown corporation, said Neil LeBlanc, Minister responsible for Nova Scotia Resources Ltd.

Mr. LeBlanc said Mr. West's appointment strengthens the corporate and petroleum knowledge of the Crown corporation.

"Mr. West's strong experience in running an international oil company is just the type of background needed at Nova Scotia Resources Ltd. as government considers the future direction of the company," said Mr. LeBlanc.

Mr. West has more than 40 years experience in the petroleum sector. His most recent position was president and CEO of Rigel Energy, a position he held from 1991 to 1999. His involvement in the company, an intermediate oil and gas producer, began in 1979 when he assumed the position of exploration vice-president with Rigel's predecessor, Total Petroleum (North America) Ltd. In 1985, the company appointed him vice-president and general manager. He held that role until his promotion to president six years later.

Under his leadership, Rigel expanded from a junior oil company to one with holdings throughout Western Canada and the North Sea. He retired from the company after successfully negotiating its sale to Talisman Energy Inc. last year.

Mr. West began his career with Mobil Oil Canada as a geophysicist, moving on to become chief geophysicist with Great Plains and Pacific Petroleums. He holds a bachelor of science degree in physics and geology from the University of British Columbia.

Also appointed to the board of directors is William (Bill) Hogg, Nova Scotia's deputy minister of finance. Mr. Hogg has been deputy minister of finance since September of last year. His career in the public service began 22 years ago. He has held several senior administrative positions including deputy minister of supply and services, natural resources and transportation and public works. He holds a bachelor of commerce degree from Saint Mary's University and is a chartered accountant.

"The public interest is well served with Bill's appointment to the board," said Mr. LeBlanc.

"The addition of a well-recognized expert in petroleum corporations and the province's chief financial officer will give Nova Scotia Resources Ltd. additional insight as the corporation charts its future direction," said Steve Parker, chair of the Crown corporation.

Nova Scotia Resources Ltd. is the provincial Crown corporation responsible for managing Nova Scotia's participation in offshore oil and gas development.