New president at the helm of Rx&D

Ottawa, ON – March 10. 2004 – Jean-Michel Halfon, chairman of the board of directors of Canada’s Research-Based Pharmaceutical Companies (Rx&D), has announced the appointment of Russell Williams as president of Rx&D.

Mr Williams joins Rx&D after a successful career in provincial politics and community service. For 15 years, he represented the voters of the Montreal riding of Nelligan at the National Assembly of Quebec. During his career as Liberal MNA, he led numerous public policy debates.

“We are delighted that Russell has accepted to take on this challenge,” says Mr Halfon. “His commitment to improved healthcare for patients and to the value of research and development into new cures will be essential in his new role as president of Rx&D.”

During his tenure as parliamentary assistant to two ministers of health and social services, Mr Williams identified and initiated strategies for a more efficient and integrated health care system. In addition, he spearheaded a research and development policy in the pharmaceutical sector. Prior to and during his political career, he played a key role in numerous non-profit and community-based initiatives in areas ranging from palliative care to human rights.

This appointment is effective March 31.