Premier-designate Tony Wakeham has released a statement on the transition of power to the new provincial government.

Wakeham says he is working “diligently” to ensure a “smooth and effective transition to government.”

Wakeham confirms that Denise Tubrett will be serving as his Chief of Staff. Tubrett had served as his Chief of Staff while in opposition, and has experience in other senior government roles.

The leader says a transition team is now coordinating detailed briefings with the public service, aligning priorities, and planning their staffing so that they can “hit the ground running.”

Members of the team are former PC cabinet ministers Ross Wiseman and Darin King, former senior public service executive Colleen Janes, and Steve Outhouse – who has served as chief of staff for various federal ministers, and as the principal secretary to the Premier of New Brunswick.

Wakeham says “in the coming weeks” he will name a cabinet, begin assembling his senior team, and launch the work required to meet the challenges ahead.