Nova Scotia Health gets new administrator

Nova Scotia Health has appointed a new administrator, now based in the province, but opposition leaders argue the move is an attempt by the government to deflect criticism ahead of a potential election call.

Health Minister Michelle Thompson announced Thursday that Chris Power, former CEO of the Capital District Health Authority, will take over the role starting November 6, the same day Janet Davidson’s resignation takes effect.

Davidson was appointed administrator after Premier Tim Houston and Thompson dismissed the health authority board and CEO in 2021. However, controversy arose when it was revealed that Davidson, who recently signed a new contract, now resides in Ontario.

In an interview, Thompson confirmed Davidson gave her notice on Tuesday but declined to share details. "We were very fortunate to have her guidance over the last number of years," said Thompson. "Very, very grateful to her for all she’s done for Nova Scotians."

Opposition Criticizes the Timing

Power will receive an annual salary of $100,000—half of Davidson's original pay. Davidson will also receive $15,000 in severance for her work prior to stepping down.

Liberal Leader Zach Churchill called Davidson’s resignation the right decision, criticizing the government’s decision to renew her contract initially. He suggested the timing was strategic, claiming Premier Houston is tying up loose ends before calling a snap election. Churchill referenced recent announcements, such as support for the ferry service to Maine and work on the Chignecto Isthmus, as further signs of election preparation.

"I think he’s just shoring up potential threats in local areas before calling an early election, which would break his own [fixed election date] law," Churchill said.

New Health Council Raises Questions

Thompson also announced the formation of a new health system council, comprising three to nine members from diverse fields, including health care, data analytics, and industrial engineering. This council will provide advice, monitor the system's performance, and make annual recommendations by August 1. Members will serve three-year terms with an option for renewal, and residency in Nova Scotia will not be a requirement.

"We will bring in expertise from wherever it’s working well and apply it here," Thompson said.

However, NDP Leader Claudia Chender criticized the government’s approach. "This government loves to rely on people in California running tech companies to tell us how to do things," Chender said. "While that knowledge may be useful, we need to focus on fixing the issues in Nova Scotia’s health-care system with people who understand it in this context."

Both Churchill and Chender called on the government to reinstate a health authority board for oversight. However, Thompson indicated that the government will continue with the current structure, relying on the administrator and interim CEO Karen Oldfield, who was appointed by Houston in 2021.