The new CHUM hospital is merging with Ste. Justine's hospital, under the edict of the Health Ministry.

Gaetan Barrette has appointed Fabrice Brunet as the new director for both hospitals, and decreed that both institutions will have the same board of directors.

The Health Minister says this type of merger is the future of health care in Quebec, as administrative roles are streamlined.

The current boards will be merged, according to article 146 of the new health law, with members of both existing boards being asked if they wish to continue their roles. 

"It's not about money, it's not about saving this and that. It's about leadership and internal attitude," said Barrette.

Barrette said he would aim to have equal representation from both institutions on the new board of directors when members are appointed in October. 

"It's about internal dialog, and that goes to a dialog that is directed to the patients' proper care, at that level, the level of a university hospital," said Barrette. 

The previous director of the CHUM, Jacques Turgeon, had a tumultuous history with Barrette. He resigned in protest over Bill 10 in March, only to be convinced to return within a week.

However in July Turgeon stepped down again, this time permanently, to take up a post as a research scientist in the United States.

The CHUM is primarily a research hospital and is expected to admit its first patient next year.