Premier Stephen McNeil today, Nov. 30, announced changes to deputy-level assignments.

Denise Perret, currently an assistant deputy minister with Alberta Health, will become the deputy minister of Health and Wellness following the retirement of Peter Vaughan. Ms. Perret led the development of the strategic vision for health care in Alberta, has extensive experience in health organization governance, and has managed research and innovation initiatives for Alberta Health.

Ms. Perret has also served as assistant deputy minister, Justice and Solicitor General in Alberta. She has more than 25 years of experience in public law, policy development and management across departments. Ms. Perret’s appointment is effective Jan. 16, 2017.

Kim MacNeil, the current deputy minister of Agriculture and Fisheries and Aquaculture, has announced his retirement after more than 30 years of service. Effective Dec. 12, Frank Dunn, deputy minister of Natural Resources, will take over as deputy minister of Agriculture and Fisheries and Aquaculture. The associate deputy minister for Agriculture and Fisheries and Aquaculture will be Allan Eddy, who is currently associate deputy minister of Natural Resources.

Also effective Dec. 12, Julie Towers will be promoted to deputy minister of Natural Resources. Ms. Towers spent several years at Natural Resources before her appointment as CEO of Aboriginal Affairs and CEO of Immigration. Justin Huston, currently executive director, will become the CEO of the Office of Aboriginal Affairs.

Tracey Taweel will become CEO of the Office of Immigration, in addition to her duties as deputy minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage.

Source: Release