Premier announces resignation of cabinet minister

Premier Danny Williams today announced the resignation of Elizabeth Marshall as the province's Minister of Health and Community Services.

"Ms. Marshall came to my office on Sunday afternoon and indicated that she wished to tender her resignation from her Cabinet position, which I accepted immediately," said Premier Williams. "This morning, she officially submitted her letter of resignation. I thanked Ms. Marshall for the service she has provided to the people of the province in the time she has served in Cabinet. I respect her abilities, which is why I chose to place her in such a demanding and challenging department, and I am disappointed at her decision to leave Cabinet at this time."

Premier Williams will fill the vacant Cabinet position in a timely manner so as to avoid any disruption in the department and the duties it fulfills. Minister Tom Rideout will fill in as Acting Minister of Health and Community Services for the immediate future. Minister Rideout will maintain his role as Minister of Transportation and Works, and Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Affairs.

Media contact: Elizabeth Matthews, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960 or (709) 690-5500

2004 09 27                            11:15 a.m.