Jim McGinty joins child health research Board
Former WA Health Minister, the Hon Jim McGinty, has been appointed to the Board of Perth's The Kids for Child Health Research.
Board Chairman, Mr John Langoulant, said Mr McGinty brought a range of skills and experience to the organisation.
"Jim is very aware of the current pressures on health systems and the important role research has to play in reducing poor health within our community, " Mr Langoulant said. "His experience in government will be very valuable in advising and assisting the Institute in our relations with key stakeholders - both the beneficiaries and the funders of our research programs."
Institute Director, Professor Fiona Stanley, said Mr McGinty had shown a long-term interest in improving outcomes for children.
"Jim was a great advocate for us when we were pursuing the mandatory fortification of flour with folate," Professor Stanley said. "We know him as someone with great commitment who is prepared to work hard for the community's benefit."
Mr McGinty said he was very pleased to be invited to join the Institute Board.
"I've worked closely with Fiona Stanley over many years and know the passion and enthusiasm people have for the work of this Institute," he said. "This is the first position that I have accepted since my retirement from politics and I was keen to make sure it was in an area where I could help in making a substantial contribution to the community."
The Kids for Child Health Research in Subiaco has more than 450 staff dedicated to improving child health and wellbeing. Established in 1990, it has forged an international reputation for excellence in research in fields including childhood cancers, asthma and allergies, mental health, birth defects, child development, infectious disease and Aboriginal child health.