City names new paramedic chief

The City of Ottawa has named a new chief of its paramedic service.

Myles Cassidy will take over from Deputy Chief Peter Kelly, who was filling the role on an interim basis, on July 10,the city announced Wednesday.

Cassidyreturns to Ottawa from Cornwall, Ont., where he was general manager in charge of paramedics, emergency management, long-term care, housing and social services, and child care services.

In a memo to the mayor and council,Ottawa's general manager of emergency and protective services Anthony Di Montehimself a former chief of the city's paramedic service described Cassidyas "uniquely well qualified" for the role.

Cassidy, also a board member of the Ontario Association of Paramedics Chiefs, has 28 years of experience as a public servant.

Also on Wednesday, the city namedLee Ann Sneddenas the new director of planning services. Sneddenhas 29 years of municipal experience, and has worked in a variety of roles in five different city departments.