Health Minister Terry Lake released the following statement today on his decision to name Wynne Powell as the interim board chair of the Fraser Health Authority.

“Today, I’m announcing that Wynne Powell will replace David Mitchell as the board chair for Fraser Health on an interim basis.

“Wynne has served as the Provincial Health Services Authority board chair for over 12 years and has guided that health authority through significant expansion and change. He has an extensive background in the public service and will provide strong, fresh leadership through the final stages of the Fraser Health review.

“He will continue to act as the PHSA board chair while he holds this interim role.

“I want to thank David Mitchell for the three and a half years he has served the people of the Fraser Health region, as well as the important contributions he has made to the Fraser Health review committee.

“He has overseen the health authority during a time of considerable growth and change, including the opening of the Jim Pattison Outpatient Care and Surgery Centre, the construction of the Surrey Memorial Hospital expansion project, and the introduction and expansion of Fraser Health’s Home is Best program - a first of its kind in B.C.

“I know that he has built close ties with the leaders, health-care workers and administrators who work in the health authority. His leadership and his voice will be missed.

“My decision was not made lightly. But the review presents an opportunity to move forward with fresh leadership during this important time for Fraser Health.”

For more information on the Fraser Health strategic review, see: http://www2.news.gov.bc.ca/news_releases_2013-2017/2013hlth0110-001650.htm

See Board Chair Wynne Powell’s bio: http://www.phsa.ca/AboutPHSA/PHSAboard/default.htm

Media Contacts:

Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)