Resignation of Chief Executive of Ministry of Fisheries

The State Services Commissioner, Mark Prebble, announced today that Dr John Glaister, Chief Executive of the Ministry of Fisheries has resigned.

Mark Prebble said John Glaister has taken key steps to progress the long term direction of fisheries management in New Zealand.

"John Glaister has progressed the government's goals for fisheries and aquaculture, and has aligned the direction and capability of the Ministry to achieve its strategic objectives," Mark Prebble said.

He has been Chief Executive of the Ministry of Fisheries since December 2004. Prior to this role Dr Glaister had strong management experience in the Australian state government, research and academic environments.

"Under his leadership the Ministry has made some significant achievements, including seeing 30 percent of New Zealand's seabed habitat protected under the Benthic Protected Areas initiative.

"Dr Glaister's mother was admitted to protective care in January last year. He has tried but found it impossible to manage this situation from New Zealand. This has increased the need for him to return to Australia where he can provide more support for his family. I sympathize with that responsibility.

"I understand John's decision and thank him for the contribution he has made and wish him well for the future," Mark Prebble said.

Dr Glaister will leave the Ministry of Fisheries on 30 June 2007.

ENDS

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