Outgoing Bermuda Hospitals Board (BHB) chairman Jonathan Brewin said yesterday that his successor will face significant challenges.

Mr. Brewin said that in order for Bermuda to get a new hospital to replace the ageing King Edward VII Memorial Hospital by 2012, Government will have to get behind the estimated $150 million project.

"There are significant challenges ahead for the board, in terms of ensuring the full introduction of many initiatives generated by the current board," Mr. Brewin said. "The successful commissioning of the Estate Master Plan will necessitate the full support of Government and the community."

Health and Family Services Minister Patrice Minors announced on Thursday that Mr. Brewin would be stepping down because he had reached the end of his maximum three year tenure as stated in the Bermuda Hospitals Board Act 1970.

In a statement issued to 1,500 hospital staff, Mr. Brewin confirmed he would step down in the New Year after serving as BHB chairman since January, 2003.

Mr. Brewin also threw his support behind his deputy Anthony Richardson.

"I am pleased to give my support to my successor Anthony Richardson," he said. "Mr. Richardson has served as deputy chairman and chairman of the finance committee, following his appointment to the board in 2003.

"He has worked strenuously in both capacities and has a comprehensive appreciation of the hospitals' activities," he said.

Making his announcement to hospital staff yesterday, Mr. Brewin said it had been a true honour and privilege to represent the staff in his role as chairman during the past three years.

"Serving the community in this capacity has given me immense personal satisfaction," Mr. Brewin said. "I hope the contribution made by the board and staff of the BHB during the past three years will be regarded as a positive step forward, in our endeavours to ensure the people of Bermuda are afforded the highest level of healthcare possible. I thank all hospital staff for their support and commitment over these past three years."

He said there will be a formal announcement about new board members in the near future.