Department of Health Permanent Secretary Mike Farrar has paid
tribute to Professor Ian Young, who is stepping down as the
Department's Chief Scientific Adviser.
Prof Young is leaving to take up the role of Chief Scientific
Adviser to the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA).
Prof Young has been with the Department of Health for 10 years.
He played a leading role in its response to the Covid-19
pandemic, providing valuable advice and guidance to the then
Health Minister, NI Executive, and wider public. In addition, he
has led on Research and Development and has been Head of
Profession for the Scientific Workforce in Health and Social
Care.
Mr Farrar said: “Ian has made a huge contribution to public
service and the Department of Health. His wisdom and experience
supported the Health & Social Care (HSC) system through
Covid, while his commitment to Research and Development will
stand the Department in great stead to meet its future
challenges. We wish him well for his future at the Food Standards
Agency.”
Prof Young joins the FSA in a part-time capacity, while
maintaining his current roles of Consultant Chemical Pathologist
at Belfast Health and Social Care Trust and Professor of Medicine
at Queen's University in Belfast, where he previously directed
the Centre for Public Health.
As well as his position with the Department of Health, Prof Young
currently serves as Director of Research for Health and Social
Care, and chairs the UK Government's Scientific Advisory
Committee on Nutrition. He will also step down from each of these
roles.
Prof Young said: “It has been a privilege to work with colleagues
in the Department of Health and across Northern Ireland
Government and the Health and Social Care system over the last
few years to provide scientific advice and evidence to inform
important policy decisions.
“While I am sorry to leave, I look forward to working with the
FSA to help to ensure that best science and evidence can inform
the safety and authenticity of the food we eat.”
Prof Young will take up his post with the FSA in the New Year.
The Department will shortly begin the process to appoint a new
Chief Scientific Adviser.
