Premier thanks Lieutenant-Governor for his service and welcomes incoming Queen�s representative

Premier Roger Grimes today thanked Dr. A.M. House for his diligent and dedicated service as Lieutenant-Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador. His Honour will be leaving the position he has served in since February 1997, as Mr. Edward Roberts will become the Queen�s new representative in the province.

"It has been a great pleasure serving with Dr. House as well as Mrs. House," said Premier Grimes. "On behalf of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador, and in particular my colleagues in the House of Assembly, I pass along best wishes to both of them for a bright and happy future."

Premier Grimes said that their Honours contributed greatly to public life in the province in the past number of years. In particular, he noted Dr. House�s commitment to new technologies such as telemedicine, which has increased medical education capabilities not only in this province but in other parts of the world. Premier Grimes also noted that Dr. House is the first chancellor of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, an award established by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to recognize outstanding individuals for their talent, unique skills and noteworthy contributions to the province.

"I would like to congratulate Mr. Edward Roberts on his appointment to the position of Lieutenant-Governor. Also, I thank him for his excellent service to Memorial University during his time as chair of the Board of Regents. Mr. Roberts is an excellent choice as Lieutenant-Governor, and I am sure he will draw on his many experiences in public service to fulfill his duties in this new role."

Mr. Roberts served as a Member of the House of Assembly from 1966 to 1982 and again from 1992 to 1996. He holds a law degree from the University of Toronto and was called to the Bar of Newfoundland in 1965. In 1979, Mr. Roberts was named a Queen�s Counsel and was appointed Master of the Supreme Court of Newfoundland in 1989. Mr. Roberts has also been involved in numerous voluntary organizations, including the Waterford General Hospital, where he served as chair of the Board of Trustees, and Memorial University of Newfoundland, where he held the position of chair of the Board of Regents since 1997. His interest in provincial history and culture has been demonstrated through his involvement as a life member in the Brigus Historical Society and Newfoundland Historical Society.

Mr. Roberts will be sworn-in as Lieutenant-Governor at a ceremony to be held later this fall.

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

2002 09 05                                     5:10 p.m.