Jennifer McPhee
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Nov 07/01) - The Status of Women Council of the NWT sent a message to newly-appointed health minister Michael Miltenberger this week.

The council is calling on Miltenberger to work with them on women's equality and family violence issues.

President Vi Beck said she hopes Miltenberger will sit down with the council and other women's groups to learn about issues faced by women.

Miltenberger did attend a recent meeting of the council in his former role as chair of the standing committee on social programs.

Miltenberger gave his first speech as minister to the legislative assembly on Monday.

Miltenberger said he will move forward on a draft plan already developed by Health and Social Services.

But before he releases the plan, Miltenberger will consult with critical stakeholders including chairs of boards, senior department staff, and medical associations.

He said the final plan will have clear and concrete actions that have the support of cabinet, MLAs, the department, boards and the public.

Miltenberger will present a plan to cabinet within 90 days. The plan will be tabled at the February session.