Premier announces new appointments

Premier Roger Grimes announced today new appointments to the Premier�s Council on Social Development, the group that advises on implementation of the Strategic Social Plan and other social policy issues.

The six new members begin their terms immediately.

"The council represents an important partnership between government and community, and has a valuable contribution to make in terms of social policy development in the province," said Premier Grimes. "Our new members bring a range of experiences and perspectives to the table, and I look forward to their contribution.

"The Strategic Social Plan, the preeminent model of social develop in Canada, is realizing its own goals of linking social and economic development, bringing a focus to prevention and early intervention, making decisions for policy and program development based on evidence and building partnerships and strengthening communities."

The Premier appoints council members based on their expertise on social development issues and for the diverse points of view they bring to their work. The council was announced during the launch of the Strategic Social Plan in 1998.

"I have always been impressed by the commitment and energy that members bring to the council," said Gerald Smith, Minister of Health and Community Services and lead minister for the Strategic Social Plan. "Recently they have advised on important policy issues, including development of new social assistance legislation, and have also recommended ways to help strengthen the province�s voluntary sector."

The new chair of the Premier�s Council is Brendan Doyle, a long time educator, former president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers� Association and community volunteer from St. Andrews.

Other new council members include: Job Goudie of Grand Falls-Windsor, owner/operator of Old Lincoln Cabins and member of the National Council of Canadians with Disabilities; Ronald Clarke, a retired educator and writer from St. John�s; Steve Kent, deputy mayor of Mount Pearl and executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador; Steve Knudsen, owner/operator of the Dark Tickle Company in St. Lunaire/Griquet and director of the St. Anthony and Area Chamber of Commerce; and Hope McBreairty, a counselor and advocate for women and children at Cara Transition House and an active volunteer in her community.

New council members are appointed for three year terms and fill vacancies left when outgoing members have finished their terms. Dr. Phil Warren, former Premier�s Council Chair, and Council members Eric Norman, Michelle Snow, Dorothy Inglis, George Clements and Peter Woodward stepped down in late December 2002.

The Premier thanked the outgoing members for their commitment to playing a key role in the development of this model for social development. "The time you gave to the SSP is time given to the people of the province. I commend you for helping to mold and guide this new process, which is as an important vehicle of continued growth and prosperity for Newfoundland and Labrador."

Media contact: Marcia Porter, Communications, (709) 729-0175.

2003 02 20                                        12:50 p.m.