Premier appoints acting Minister of Health and Community Services

Premier Roger Grimes announced today that Julie Bettney will take a short period of leave from her position as Minister of Health and Community Services for health reasons. Gerald Smith, Minister of Human Resources and Employment, will serve as acting Minister of Health and Community Services in Minister Bettney's place while she is on leave.

"I know that all residents of Newfoundland and Labrador join with me as I wish Minister Bettney a quick recovery so that she can soon resume her important position in this administration," said Premier Grimes.

"Minister Smith will work closely with departmental staff to continue to provide the best possible health care administration to the people of this province," said Premier Grimes. "I am very confident in his ability to take on this responsibility."

Minister Smith's appointment as acting Minister of Health and Community Services is effective immediately.

Media contact: Carl Cooper, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960.

2001 04 20                                    10:20 a.m.