Mr. Speaker, we must deliver health care differently. We have to deliver it more effectively and more efficiently. We have to make sure that communities are able to influence health care decisions. This will only occur if we change the current delivery system. Mr. Speaker, Nova Scotians have made it clear that they are disenchanted with the current regional health board structure.
People complain that the regional boards are too large and too far removed from local communities.
Working with Nova Scotians and with health care providers, we will change that, Mr. Speaker. In the government's election platform and again in the Speech from the Throne, this government promised to eliminate the current regional health board structure. Today, Mr. Speaker, I am announcing the first step in the transition to a new health care delivery system. Effective immediately, governance of the four regional health boards is being transferred to the Department of Health. While board responsibilities are being transferred to the department, the boards' administrative, support and professional employees will remain in place.