Statement from Alberta's Minister of Health
Health Minister Fred Horne issued the following statement today:
“Albertans elected us to ensure government - and its agencies and boards - live within their means.

At a time when we’ve asked our front-line providers, including doctors, teachers, and support workers to take freezes in pay, the unwillingness of the AHS’ Board to reconsider its decision on pay-at-risk is completely out-of-step with the government’s priorities - and more importantly, the priorities of Albertans.

Yesterday’s directive on bonus pay was at least the fifth formal directive I’ve issued to AHS in recent months.

The response to yesterday’s directive and the comments later made in the media raise serious questions as to whether the Board can continue to function effectively and work collaboratively with government and other community stakeholders.

Regrettably, the Premier, my cabinet colleagues and I were forced to consider whether Albertans can continue to have confidence in their ongoing ability to direct change in our health system.

Earlier this morning, I informed the AHS Board Chair and the members of the AHS Board that I am terminating their appointments, effective immediately and thanked them for their service.

In accordance with Section 11 of the Regional Health Authorities Act, I have appointed Janet Davidson as Official Administrator of Alberta Health Services effective immediately to act in place of the Board.

A nurse by training, Janet is a nationally renowned senior executive with over 30 years of direct experience in health care administration and governance - in Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario.

She will join me in Edmonton on Friday, where I look forward to introducing her to AHS CEO Dr. Chris Eagle, staff and patients at AHS.

As the Premier announced yesterday, we have committed to a review of the agencies, boards and commissions which serve government to ensure Albertans can have trust and confidence in decisions made on their behalf.

This process begins today, starts with AHS and will be led by Ms. Davidson among her other responsibilities. I want to assure all Albertans - particularly AHS staff - that you will have the opportunity for meaningful input.

I will further direct the administrator to review the decision made by the AHS board yesterday to award bonuses for 2012-13.

We don’t think it’s fair these bonuses are payable. Our position is clear.

And that’s why we’ve acted today.

We understand that some AHS executives offered to forego their bonuses. I understand though that the Board refused to allow these executives that option.

I want to say a few words about our health care system to Albertans, and most importantly, the staff of AHS who deliver excellent care to us each and every day.

First, nothing about today's decision changes the normal delivery of health care in Alberta. Hospitals and other care facilities continue with normal operations. The changes we announce today are unlikely to be noticed by most people - they concern governance and other operational matters.

I want to be clear - our government has full confidence in our front-line health care workers - our doctors, nurses and health professionals across Alberta who provide among the best care anywhere in Canada.

AHS has an enormous task, and with today’s actions, we start fresh - working with incredibly dedicated men and women towards driving better health care, shorter wait times and improved health outcomes for the people of Alberta.

We will continue to drive change in the health system with a strong focus on faster health care closer to home.

That goal is a key part of our government’s Building Alberta Plan.”