Health director Luc Boileau resigns from his position at the Public Health Department
In a recent cabinet shuffle, Quebec's Legault government announced the appointment of Dr. Caroline Quach-Thanh as the new Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Health and Social Services and Director of Public Health. The announcement follows the resignation of Dr. Horacio Arruda, who was one of the main faces of the COVID-19 pandemic in Quebec.
Dr. Arruda's resignation, effective as of September 29, 2022, was due to concerns about the erosion of public adherence to advice and scientific rigor. His departure comes after several criticisms regarding his controversial recommendations and questions about his competencies.
Luc Boileau, who served as the interim Director of National Public Health, succeeding Dr. Arruda in 2022, will now step down from his post. Boileau's mandate was expected to last four years, but he is leaving his post earlier than anticipated.
The appointment of Dr. Quach-Thanh was made following an exhaustive and rigorous nomination process. She brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as President of the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) of the Public Health Agency of Canada from 2017 to 2021.
Dr. Quach-Thanh is a microbiologist-infectious disease specialist at CHU Sainte-Justine and has been a full professor in the Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, and in the Department of Pediatrics at UdeM since 2016. Her expertise has often been sought for media comments during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Minister of Health's office stated that Dr. Quach-Thanh's expertise and experience make her the ideal candidate for the position. The move comes at a crucial time, as concerns surrounding the Dorval-Lachine CLSC and the SAAQclic incident continue to loom over the ministry.
The departure of Guy Rocher, an engaged sociologist, and the imminent cabinet shuffle add to the air of change within the Quebec government. As Dr. Quach-Thanh prepares to assume her duties, the public awaits her leadership and guidance in navigating the ongoing challenges in public health.
Dr. Arruda's resignation letter, obtained by a news site, offers a glimpse into his thoughts and reasons for stepping down. The letter, while not publicly disclosed, is expected to shed light on the factors that led to his decision.
As Quebec moves forward, the focus remains on ensuring the health and wellbeing of its citizens. With Dr. Quach-Thanh at the helm, the Ministry of Health and Social Services aims to continue providing the necessary support and guidance during these challenging times.
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