Dr. Strang, who led N.S. through COVID-19 pandemic, to retire as chief medical officer of health

A photo of Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia's chief medical officer of health, during a live COVID-19 news conference on Feb. 23, 2022. (SOURCE: Communications Nova Scotia)

A familiar face to Nova Scotians during the COVID-19 pandemic plans to retire.

Dr. Robert Strang, the province’s chief medical officer of health, will leave his role in December.

Premier Tim Houston says he accepted Strang’s retirement notice on Thursday.

“Throughout his nearly three decades in the public service, Nova Scotians have experienced Dr. Strang’s caring, compassion and sense of community — and his unwavering commitment to protecting the public’s health,” Houston said in a provincial release.

“I’m sure I speak for many when I say we greatly appreciate everything he’s done, especially his guidance and leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, and I thank him for his outstanding service.”

Strang has served as chief medical officer of health since 2007. Before that, he served as the medical officer of health for the former Capital District Health Authority.

Strang was also awarded the Lieutenant-Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration in 2020 for his work during the pandemic. During that time he gave daily news conferences, often showcasing his unique tie collection.

The province says the search for a new chief medical officer of health will begin soon.

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