New Team to Increase Focus on Health

Building a healthier future will be the number one focus of the new cabinet announced today, Dec. 19, by Premier John Hamm.

"The changes I am making today will help carry Nova Scotia forward towards the healthy, prosperous and self-sufficient future we see so clearly," said the premier. "We have a lot to do in the years ahead. We must never lose sight of our goal -- to develop Nova Scotia and Nova Scotians to their fullest potential."

Ten of the 14 cabinet ministers received new assignments. Jane Purves is the new Minister of Health and chair of the Seniors Citizens' Secretariat, while retaining responsibility for the Advisory Council on the Status of Women.

"Jane Purves will build on the solid foundation we've established in health through stable, predictable funding," said the premier. "Our plan for health means more doctors and nurses at the bedside and access to quality care when and where Nova Scotians need it."

The premier also established an Office of Health Promotion, separate and distinct from the Department of Health. It will be responsible for all matters relating to health promotion, preventative health, wellness and addiction services -- including problem gaming services, tobacco control and the Nova Scotia Sport and Recreation Commission.

Rodney MacDonald, a former physical education teacher, will become the new Minister of Health Promotion, while continuing to serve as Minister of Tourism and Culture.

"Improving our overall health is critical to achieving the well being and prosperity we see in our future," added the premier. "Rodney MacDonald's leadership on this front, building on his teaching experience and responsibility for Sport and Recreation, will contribute significantly to this goal."

Jamie Muir is the new Attorney General and Minister of Justice.

Former teacher Angus MacIsaac is the new Minister of Education.

Michael Baker is the new Minister of Transportation and Public Works, while retaining his duties as chair of Treasury and Policy Board, Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister responsible for Communications Nova Scotia.

Former Bedford mayor and councillor Peter Christie assumes duties as Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations.

Former municipal councillor David Morse is the new Minister of Community Services and Minister responsible for the Disabled Persons' Commission.

Ernest Fage is the new Minister of Energy, while Gordon Balser assumes new duties as Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries and Minister of the Public Service Commission.

Deputy premier Ron Russell is the new Minister of Environment and Labour and Minister responsible for the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation.

The ministerial duties of Finance Minister Neil LeBlanc, Natural Resources Minister Tim Olive and Economic Development Minister Cecil Clarke remain the same.

"To date, our team has completed 80 per cent of the commitments we made back in 1999," said the premier. "Our focus now is to finish that job and to bring forward new ideas this spring to build on the success we've had."