THE new Minister of Health Hon 'Uliti Uata was welcomed by the Director of Health Dr Siale 'Akau'ola and executive members of the Ministry of Health in their first meeting held at the at Vaiola Hospital on January 27.

The meeting in the Administration Conference Room was attended by up to 17 Executives from the various divisions at the hospital including public health, surgical, nursing, maternal health, dental, finance and administration.

'The new minister said he was encouraged by families and colleagues to take up the new job, and he accepted it.

He then asked that they work together and provide the best health service to the people of Tonga.

Executives present included Dr Makameone Taumoepeau, Dr Bernard Tu'inukuafe, Dr Siaosi 'Aho, Dr Semisi Latu, Dr 'Ana 'Akau'ola, Dr Sililo Tomiki, Dr Malakai 'Ake, as well as other heads of departments.

The new Minister also carried out his first public task and accepted 14 wheelchairs donated to the hospital from Mele and James Baxley through the Free Wheelchair Mission from the United States.

Hon 'Uliti Uata a Ha'apai People Representative was recommended by the Prime Minister to replace 'Akilisi Pohiva who vacated the post after being a Minister of Health for about two weeks, from December 29 to January 13.