First Minister Carwyn Jones has led the praise of outgoing Chief Medical Officer of Wales Dr Tony Jewell.
Dr Jewell, who is retiring, has spent six years in the role. The Chief Medical Officer provides independent professional advice and guidance to the Welsh Government on health and healthcare matters.
The First Minister said: “I want to thank Dr Jewell for his dedication to improving the health of the people of Wales. He developed Our Healthy Future, an ambitious strategic vision for public health. He has worked tirelessly to reduce inequalities that can affect good health, such as child poverty.
“Through the Fairer Outcomes for All plan, he has worked to ensure health issues are built into all government policy, which is crucial to achieve real change.”
Health Minister Lesley Griffiths added: “His work tackling smoking has had a significant impact on health. Thanks in no small part to his efforts, Wales was the first UK nation to ban smoking in public places. He has since led the campaign to reduce the exposure of children to smoke in cars or at home, and encouraged efforts to prevent young people to take up smoking.
“Dr Jewell often remarks that public health work is a marathon, not a sprint, and I expect we will continue to feel the benefits of his work in public health in the decades to come. I wish him well in his retirement.”
Dr Jewell, who will be replaced in September by Dr Ruth Hussey, said: “I have very much enjoyed my six years in Wales, and I wish the same for my successor, Dr Ruth Hussey.
“Dr Hussey was born in Wales and spent her early years here. She has worked at a senior level in public health in England, and brings extensive experience to the role. I wish her well in her work towards a healthier Wales.”