May 18, 2012

Former National Party Leader Mike Horan has been appointed chairman of the Darling Downs Hospital and Health Board, the body which is responsible for health services in the South Burnett.

Mr Horan was the National Party, and then LNP, Member for Toowoomba from 1991 until he chose not to re-contest the seat at this year’s State Election.

Health Minister Lawrence Springborg – who replaced Horan as National Party leader in 2003 – announced the appointment today.

“The Newman Government is delivering on its election promise to restore local Health Boards to Queensland communities to oversee the management of health services,” Mr Springborg said.

“The people of Darling Downs deserve to have greater trust and confidence in local health services and that’s what this government is on the path to delivering.

“The Board will put decision making back in the hands of the community where it belongs, increasing local accountability for the delivery of health services.

“The new Chair will be accountable for the performance of the local Hospital and Health Board in purchasing and providing health services that meet the needs of their area.

“This government is committed to a health system that puts patients first, gives the local community a say in services, and values the knowledge and hard work of skilled frontline staff.”

Mr Springborg said Mr Horan brings extensive experience to the role of Chair of the local Hospital and Health Board.

“Mike is a well-known Darling Downs local having served as the Toowoomba South Member of Parliament for 21 years and including experience as the Minister and shadow Minister for Health,” he said.

“He has strong board experience and extensive local knowledge of the Darling Downs region.

“Mike has an important role to play in transforming the way local health services are governed and I congratulate him on the appointment.”

The recruitment of board members will be finalised in coming weeks.