Peel appoints new medical officer of health

Peel regional council appointed Dr. David Mowat to the position of Medical Officer of Health (MOH), effective Feb. 19, 2007.

Dr. Mowat brings an extensive background in public health at the federal, provincial and municipal levels, most recently at the Public Health Agency of Canada where he served as deputy chief public health officer, Public Health Practice and Regional Operations.

Prior positions include director general, Office of Public Health Practice at the Public Health Agency of Canada; chief medical officer of health at the Ontario Ministry of Health, and medical officer of health and CEO at the Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox and Addington Health Unit.

“We are pleased to have someone with Dr. Mowat’s experience and vision join us to lead our public health programs and services,” said Emil Kolb, regional chair. “Dr. Mowat’s extensive public health background and his strong leadership skills will be a great asset to the Region of Peel.”

In his position as medical officer of health, Dr. Mowat will oversee an award-winning team of public health staff who provide health protection and promotion and illness prevention programs and services for more than one million residents who live and work in Brampton, Caledon and Mississauga.

“Dr. Mowat’s expertise will be invaluable as we continue to plan and deliver a variety of health services for our diverse and rapidly growing community,” said regional councillor Annette Groves, chair of the region’s human services committee. “His experience at both the federal and provincial levels of government will enable him to bring new and valuable insights to our team as the delivery of public health services continues to evolve.”