Yellowknife (May 07/04) - Former Yellowknife Catholic Schools assistant superintendent and territorial election candidate Don Kindt is the new head of the Liquor Licensing Board.

"Mr. Kindt brings considerable skills to the position," Finance Minister Floyd Roland said in the press release that announced the appointment. "He has extensive board experience and a history of dedication to Northern community service."

Kindt steps into a difficult situation that includes rumours of infighting between board members and senior finance department managers. An independent ethics counsellor is investigating allegations that senior level public servants interfered with cases brought before the board in February.

Former chair John Simpson resigned last month, citing a lack of support for the board's policies from the territorial government.

Kindt said he spoke with Roland and felt comfortable taking the position.

"The minister said he would be supportive of the board's policies," said Kindt.

"I'm looking forward to working together as a team."

Kindt was scheduled to be in Hay River today to meet with Liquor Board administration. He hoped to speak with other members of the board later this week to "get the lay of the land."

Kindt, who ran for a position in the legislative assembly during the last territorial election and is currently an education consultant, said he took the job in order to make a public contribution.