Health care did not seem quite big enough for a former justice minister, who sits on more committees and is involved in broader issues than the health minister. And since Rock is often rumoured to be a candidate to replace Chr tien as Liberal leader, it was assumed he might look for an economic portfolio in which he could demonstrate hard-headed fiscal wisdom. Around Ottawa, Rock is regarded as a leading member of the Class of '93, the new faces who arrived in Ottawa during the 1993 Liberal sweep. Like many members of that generation he is fiscally conservative and socially progressive. He may have established his progressive credentials a little too well at Justice, and needed a chance to round out his r sum .
Health is a very important and high-profile job.
The appointment triggered a mixed reaction, with the CMA among the groups praising Chr tien's selection. Within the government, Rock is considered a highly intelligent minister who works hard and has learned a lot in a difficult job. During his early days at Justice he was frequently embroiled in too many issues and failed to establish a clear focus. He is also credible when he insists that he will fight for medicare at the cabinet table. Given that Finance Minister Paul Martin is also a born-again defender of health care and budget surpluses appear to be on the horizon, Rock should have an easier time than his predecessors wresting money for health care from his cabinet colleagues.