Deputy Minister Appointed to Trade Centre Board

Deputy minister of Economic and Rural Development Ian Thompson, was appointed to the Trade Centre Limited board of directors today, June 17. He will serve as the non-voting deputy minister representative for government.

Mr. Thompson takes the place of Kelliann Dean, Public Service Commissioner and former deputy minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage. There is no term for the appointment.

"We are fortunate to have an individual of deputy minister Thompson's calibre accept this position, and Nova Scotians will benefit from the guidance he will provide," said Percy Paris, Minister of Economic and Rural Development. "I also wish to thank deputy minister Dean for her efforts in helping the Trade Centre Limited work towards achieving its mandate."

Also leaving the board is Frank Anderson, who is chief executive officer of the Yarmouth Area Industrial Commission.

Mr. Thompson is a former reporter, business owner and executive with two energy utilities. He graduated from Dalhousie University and has been involved with local, national and international charitable and business organizations. He currently sits on the boards of Nova Scotia Business Inc. and Innovacorp.

The mandate of the Trade Centre Limited is to develop the business, hospitality and entertainment industries, and bring continued economic benefits to the community. The board plays a pivotal role in charting the future direction of the centre.

The board can have up to 12 voting and two non-voting members. With this appointment the board now stands at 11 voting and two non-voting members.