Executive Council Positions Merged

Premier John Hamm today announced the consolidation of two senior positions within the Executive Council office. Effective Monday, Jan. 22, Alison Scott assumed duties as both clerk and secretary of the Executive Council.

"Only in recent years have there been separate positions for clerk and secretary," said the premier. "With recent changes in staff, realigning the functions of Executive Council under one position makes perfect sense."

Former clerk Jim Spurr has left the provincial government to begin work this week in the private sector.

"I regret Mr. Spurr's departure and I wish him all the best as he turns a new page on his career," said the premier. "I am delighted that someone of the experience and talent of Alison Scott has agreed to serve as both clerk and secretary of Executive Council."

A graduate with honours from St. Francis Xavier University, Alison Scott received her law degree from Dalhousie University in 1980. Ms. Scott practised law with the Department of Justice from 1982 to 1992. She also served as clerk of the Executive Council under former premiers Don Cameron and John Savage from 1992 to 1994, before returning to the Department of Justice. In 1997, Ms. Scott left the provincial government to enter private practice.

Following the last general election, she served as an advisor to Premier Hamm's transition team and on Aug. 16, 1999, was named secretary to the Executive Council. The Executive Council office provides legal and other services to cabinet.

Premier Hamm said the merger of positions will result in savings to taxpayers.