Fact Check: "Tam's position as chief public health officer began in June 2017."
What We Know
Theresa Tam is the current Chief Public Health Officer (CPHO) of Canada, having been appointed to this position on June 26, 2017. She initially took on the role in an acting capacity on December 16, 2016, following the retirement of her predecessor, Gregory Taylor. However, her formal appointment as CPHO occurred in June 2017, marking the official start of her tenure in this role (Wikipedia, Wikipedia, Government of Canada).
The CPHO is responsible for leading public health initiatives and providing advice to the Minister of Health and the President of the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). The position was established in 2004, and Tam is the third individual to hold this title since its inception (Wikipedia).
Analysis
The claim that Tam's position as chief public health officer began in June 2017 is accurate. Both the Wikipedia entry on the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada and the official Government of Canada announcement confirm her formal appointment date. The distinction between her acting role and formal appointment is crucial; while she began her duties in December 2016, her official title and responsibilities as CPHO were confirmed in June 2017.
The sources used to verify this claim are reliable. Wikipedia entries are often updated and cited from credible references, and the Government of Canada’s official announcements provide authoritative information regarding public appointments. Both sources corroborate the timeline of Tam's appointment, reinforcing the accuracy of the claim.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The assertion that Tam's position as chief public health officer began in June 2017 is supported by multiple credible sources, confirming her formal appointment date and the responsibilities associated with her role.
