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DUP's Simon Hamilton has been announced as the new Health Minister for Northern Ireland.

He replaces outgoing Minister Jim Wells who stepped down from his position last month following a number of comments he made on gay couples.

He said he would be stepping down to look after his wife Grace who recently suffered a stroke.

Mr Hamilton, who had been the Finance Minister, and Jonathan Bell, former junior minister, were both named as the front runners for the role ahead of the announcement on Monday.

Mr Hamilton had been standing in for Mr Wells in the interim period since he announced his resignation.

Arlene Foster is now Finance Minister and Jonathan Bell is DETI Minister

In the wake of the announcement, Mr Hamilton has said he will continue to drive the momentum of change across the health service.

He said: “The health and social care sector in Northern Ireland is something we should all be very proud of and it is a privilege for me to hold the position of Minister. I can assure the public that despite the budget and resource challenges I face, I will continue to strive for excellence in the care we provide. There will be tough decisions ahead, but I will not shy away from doing what’s right.

“I enter this post during an exciting period of change. While there is much good work across the sector, there are a number of areas for improvement already identified and I intend to keep the momentum of change going.

“The Donaldson report will help shape appropriate changes to the sector across Northern Ireland and I will ensure that a number of his recommendations are implemented as soon as possible. The review of commissioning in line with what was recommended in Sir Liam’s report will also make the system more effective.

(Image: Kelvin Boyes/Press Eye)

“I am committed to continuing with the transformation agenda including the 'Transforming Your Care' (TYC) vision for the future model of health and social care delivery. This will ensure services are structured and delivered in safe and sustainable manner making best use of all resources available to us.”

The Minister added: “I would like to pay tribute to all staff in the Health and Social Care sector, as well as staff from the Ambulance and Fire Service. I know that they feel the stresses and strains of their work and I, along with the public, am grateful for their dedication and commitment.”

Michelle McIlveen is the new Junior Minister and Mervyn Storey will continue in his role as Minister for Social Dvelopment.