Morse is Named Environment and Labour Minister

Premier John Hamm today named Kings South MLA David Morse as the minister of environment and labour.

Ministerial responsibility for the Department of Human Resources has been permanently assigned to Ron Russell, who was acting minister for the last several months. Mr. Russell will continue to be transportation and public works minister.

It is Mr. Morse's first cabinet post.

"David has a very strong academic background, solid experience as a small businessman and, most importantly, has been extremely active within his community," the premier said.

"He brings skills and experiences to the Executive Council that strengthens our team. I look forward to serving with him."

Mr. Morse holds a Bachelor of Arts degree, with honours, in economics from Mount Allison University, and a master's degree in business administration from McMaster University. He was an independent insurance agent prior to his election in July 1999 as MLA for Kings South.

"Nova Scotians are looking at a lot of opportunities and challenges over the next few years," said Mr. Morse. "I'm excited about this opportunity to help turn those challenges and opportunities into a better province for all Nova Scotians."

Mr. Morse served as municipal councillor for the village of New Minas from 1994 to 1997, and during that time was a representative on several municipal organizations, including the board of the Kings Regional Rehabilitation Centre and the Kings Transit Board.

He is also a member of the provincial executive of the Progressive Conservative Party of Nova Scotia.

Mr. Morse and wife, Lynn, have five sons -- Dan, Mike, Matthew, Peter and Cameron.

The swearing-in ceremony will be held at Government House at 1:30 p.m. today.