Premier Pat Binns announced today that Chester Gillan, MLA for Parkdale-Belvedere, has been appointed as Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environment.
Gillan was sworn in by Honourable Gilbert R. Clements, Lieutenant Governor, during a short ceremony conducted at Government House at noon.
"Mr. Gillan brings a broad perspective and a wealth of experience to the Cabinet table. We are fortunate, in that Islanders elected a number of talented people to the government side of the House," stated the Premier.
Chester Gillan was first elected to the Legislative Assembly in 1996, and was subsequently re-elected in April, 2000. Mr. Gillan served as Minister of Education during the Binns' Government's first mandate.
Mr. Gillan has a keen interest in the environment, having served as a charter member of the Canadian Environmental Education Association and as a director for the Island Nature Trust.
"Island fishers will be well represented by Chester Gillan. He is an excellent listener, a quick study, and a consensus builder. His negotiation skills are superb and will be useful in dealing with the federal government," said Premier Binns.
Gillan replaces Kevin MacAdam who resigned October 19th to seek a seat in the House of Commons. During the interim, Premier Binns acted as Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environment.