Deputy minister appointed 

Premier Danny Williams has announced the appointment of Chris Kieley as deputy minister of the Department of Natural Resources, effective October 2, 2006.     

�I am very pleased to welcome Mr. Kieley's continued contribution to the public service in this challenging new role,� said Premier Williams.  �The proper development of our natural resources is a key part of this government�s vision for a more prosperous province, and Mr. Kieley has proven himself to be an invaluable contributor in this regard.  I know he will continue to be a valuable asset and a strong leader in his new role.� 

Having served most recently as associate deputy minister (energy) with the department, Mr. Kieley has played a key role in several government initiatives, including being a part of the Atlantic Accord negotiating team.   

Mr. Kieley succeeds Bruce Saunders who is retiring after a 31-year career with the provincial public service.  

�On behalf of government, I extend a sincere thank you to Mr. Saunders for the professional commitment and dedication he has demonstrated on behalf of the province,� added the Premier. �We are appreciative of the contribution he has made, and wish him the very best in the future.� 

Media contact: Elizabeth Matthews, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960, 351-1227 elizabethmatthews@gov.nl.ca
  

Biographical information
Chris Kieley began his career with government in 1987 with the Department of Public Works and Services. He served in several capacities with the Office of the Auditor General and Treasury Board Secretariat. He transferred to the Department of Mines and Energy in 1996 where he has held progressively responsible positions within the Energy Branch. He was appointed assistant deputy minister (energy resources management) in November 2003, having served earlier there as director of the petroleum projects monitoring division, and director of special projects. In December 2005 he was appointed associate deputy minister of energy, Department of Natural Resources. 

2006 09 27                                                        10:00 a.m.