November 30, 2000
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today announced that, effective December 13, 2000, Mr. Paul Genest will assume the position of Director of Policy and Research. The Director of Policy and Research assists the Prime Minister by providing policy advice and direction and coordinating the implementation of the government’s policy agenda.

In making the announcement, the Prime Minister expressed his deep appreciation to Ms. Chaviva Hosek, who has served as Director of Policy and Research since November 4, 1993 and who has accepted the post of President and CEO of the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research.

"Chaviva’s talent and insight have been indispensable to the extraordinary success that our government has enjoyed, said the Prime Minister." She has been a driving force in the development and implementation of our balanced approach to addressing economic and social policy questions. And, of course, she has left an indelible mark on Canadian politics by developing Red Book I and the two that have followed. Chaviva has been at my side since before we took office in1993. I owe her a lot and I will miss her very much; not just her intelligence and discernment but also her abiding good humour. Aline joins me in wishing continued happiness to her and her fine family"

Mr. Genest is currently Director General (Acting) Intergovernmental Affairs, Health Canada. He has also served as Senior Policy Advisor to two ministers of Health. He played a key role in achieving the historic Health Action Plan of last September, in the creation of the Canadian Institutes for Health Research and in formulating our Health Budget of 1999. "Mr. Genest’s performance in advancing key priorities of our government has impressed me immensely, "said the Prime Minister. "I am delighted that someone of his high calibre and broad experience is joining our team. I know that he is well-suited to the challenge."

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