Ex-FedNor boss heads up health planning organization: Louise Paquette resigns after 12 years.

• Author: Ross, Ian
• Position: NEWS

FedNor's director general, Louise Paquette, resigned as head of the regional economy development agency to take over as CEO of the North East Local Health Integration Network (LHIN).

The LHIN is a provincially-funded health services planning agency based in North Bay. March 1st, is Paquette's first day on the job.

In a Jan. 4th e-mail circulated to FedNor staff, Paquette said "it is now time for me to move on," having spent 12 years heading up FedNor.

"This is a very difficult decision. I have been fortunate to work with all of you community-minded people who share my passion and vision for Northern Ontario.

"Together, we have delivered unparalleled results and pushed ourselves and the organization to be the best we could be. There is a great team spirit at FedNor, one that is firmly rooted in strong values and a true sense of commitment.

"I leave this organization with gratitude for the privilege of having worked with an exceptional management team who have both supported and inspired me."

Paquette was travelling in Africa at the time of the announcement and was not available for comment. A replacement has not been named as of mid-January.

Officials with Industry Canada, the federal department that oversees the Northern Ontario development funding agency, did not provide comment, nor did they make the minister, and Parry Sound-Muskoka MP, Tony Clement available for comment on FedNor's future.

Bill Spinney, president of the Ontario Association of Community Futures Development Corporations, said he crossed swords with Paquette a few times but always held her in deep regard.

"Personally we have had our differences of opinion but that opinion differed more in the methodology to get to the end result, which is better economic opportunities for...