Monday, May 15, 2006

News Release

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)



Prime Minister appoints new Commissioners to the Public Appointments Commission

May 15, 2006
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper was pleased to announce today the appointments of Hassan Khosrowshahi, Roy MacLaren and Jacqueline Boutet as Commissioners to the Public Appointments Commission.

Today’s announcement builds on the Prime Minister’s nomination on April 26, 2006 of Mr. Gwyn Morgan as the first Chairperson of the Public Appointments Commission. Mr. Morgan’s proposed appointment will be reviewed by the Standing Committee of the House of Commons on Government Operations and Estimates on May 16, 2006.

“Establishing the Public Appointments Commission is an important step toward a more open, honest and accountable government for Canadians,” said the Prime Minister. “The Commissioners will ensure our appointments system is based on merit and is done in an open and transparent way. And, they have agreed to work for a salary of $1 a year.”

The Commissioners will begin work on a Code of Practice to be completed by September 2006.

Biographical information is following.

* * * * * * * * * *

Gwyn Morgan

Gwyn Morgan, from Calgary, Alberta, is one of Canada's most distinguished business leaders. A petroleum engineering graduate from the University of Alberta, he led the building of one of the world's leading oil and gas companies and Canada's largest energy company, EnCana Corporation. Mr. Morgan was founding President and Chief Executive Officer of EnCana from 2002 until stepping down on January 1, 2006. Mr. Morgan has been recognized through numerous awards and honorary distinctions, including being named Canada's most respected CEO in 2005 in a survey conducted by Ipsos Reid of 250 business leaders in Canada. An inductee to the Alberta Business Hall of Fame, he has served on the Boards of a number of organizations in the private and not for profit sectors, including HSBC Bank of Canada, the SNC Lavallin Group, Alcan Inc., the Public Policy Forum, the Fraser Institute and the Calgary University Hospital. Mr. Morgan was also the co chair of the Calgary Fundraising Committee for the Northern Alberta Children's Health Centre, co Chair of the Governor General's Canadian Leadership Conference, and is an honorary Colonel (retired) of the 410 Tactical Fighter Squadron, Canadian Air Force.

Gwyn Morgan is recognized for his self discipline and integrity, and his strong belief that a corporation should be a positive social and ethical force.


Ms. Jacqueline L. Boutet, C.M.

Ms. Jacqueline Boutet is a distinguished Canadian and Quebec businesswoman. Her success in building a renowned real estate firm and her commitment to volunteering has earned her respect and admiration in both the business and public sectors. She has served on a number of Boards of Directors, including HSBC Bank Canada, SNC Lavalin, and Via Rail. She was Chair of the Montreal Heart Institute Foundation from 1994-1996 and Chair of Tennis Canada from 1995-1998. Ms. Boutet was inducted into the Canadian Tennis Hall of Fame in 2003.

Ms. Boutet was instrumental in helping to raise over $20 million in public and private funds to transform Jarry Park into a world-class tennis complex. The facilities, including a 10,500-seat stadium court, guaranteed that the Tennis Masters Canada and the Rogers AT&T Cup would remain two of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world.

In 1995, Ms. Boutet was named to the Order of Canada and won an award for Volunteer of the Year from Sport Quebec. In 2002, Ms. Boutet was honoured with the prestigious Dollard Morin prize, the highest achievement in Quebec for her volunteer work in the national tennis community.

Ms. Boutet recently earned a Masters Degree in management from McGill University and dedicates her time and energy to various business, charitable, cultural, athletic and medical research societies. She continues to serve on the Board of Directors of Cogeco Inc.



Mr. Hassan Khosrowshahi

Hassan Khosrowshahi was born in Tehran, Iran in 1940. He was educated in Iran and England and obtained his degree in law and economics from the University of Tehran.

He joined his family company, the Minoo Industrial Group, in 1961. Minoo Industrial Group was a major manufacturer and distributor of food products, pharmaceutical and cosmetics. It produced products under its own brand names and under license for major international companies such as Beatrice Foods, Sandoz, United Biscuits, L'Oreal Group, Boots, and G.D. Searle. In addition it was the exclusive distributor for Nestle S.A. and Kellogg's.

In 1981, Mr. Khosrowshahi immigrated to Canada and founded the Inwest Group of Companies. Inwest initially pursued two major business areas, retailing and real estate. It founded Future Shop chain of consumer electronic stores which it later took public. Inwest sold Future shop to the U.S. based retailer, Best Buy Inc., in November 2001. At that time, with sales of over $2 billion Future Shop was the largest retailer of consumer electronic products in Canada and operated from coast to coast.

Through its subsidiary, Wesbild Properties, Inwest is engaged in developing, holding and managing real estate. In British Columbia, Wesbild has done land development, developed shopping centres and built high rise apartment buildings. Wesbild has also developed and continues to own and manage shopping centres in the state of Washington.

Another subsidiary of Inwest Drug Royalty Inc. purchases rights to pharmaceutical products in return for royalties.

Mr. Khosrowshahi is the Chairman of Inwest Group of Companies. He is a vice chairman of the Fraser Institute and member of its board of trustees and executive advisory board . He is a member of the Executive Committee of the Business Council of British Columbia, the Canadian Council of chief Executives, the board of directors of Leading Edge Endowment Fund established by the Government of British Columbia, and the Board of the Smithsonian's Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery.

Mr Khosrowshahi is married to Nezhat and they are active supporters of organizations in the fields of health, education and the arts.



The Honourable Roy MacLaren, PC

The Honourable Roy MacLaren was born in Vancouver and is a graduate of the University of British Columbia. He is also a graduate of the Universities of Cambridge and Toronto and of the Advanced Management Program at the Harvard Graduate School of Business Administration. He has received honorary doctorates from three universities in Canada and one in the United States.

During twelve years with the Canadian diplomatic service, Mr. MacLaren's postings included Hanoi, Saigon, Prague and the United Nations in New York and Geneva. Subsequently in the business world he was President of Ogilvy Mather (Canada) and President and owner of CB Media Ltd., the publisher of Canadian Business Magazine. He has served on the boards of Deutsche Bank (Canada); Royal LePage; London Life; Canadian Tire; Patheon; Algoma Central; Brascan; and Standard Life (UK).

Mr. MacLaren was elected Member of Parliament for Etobicoke North in 1979. After serving as Parliamentary Secretary for Energy, Mines and Resources, he became Minister of State (Finance) in 1983 and Minister of National Revenue in 1984.

After several years in Opposition as trade critic, he was appointed Minister for International Trade in 1993. He was High Commissioner for Canada to Great Britain and Northern Ireland from 1996 to 2000.

Mr. MacLaren has been Chairman of the Canadian Institute for International Affairs and Honorary Colonel of the Seventh Toronto Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery. He is currently Chairman of the Canada-India Business Council, the Canada-Europe Round Table and the Atlantic Council. He is a Director of the Canadian Opera Company and a Governor of the Royal Ontario Museum Foundation. In the United Kingdom, Mr. MacLaren is a Governor of the Ditchley Foundation and of the International Institute for Strategic Studies. He is also a Commissioner of the Trilateral Commission.

Mr. MacLaren is the author of six books on various aspects of Canadian history. He is married with three children and two grandchildren.


The Prime Minister’s Office - Communications
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News Release

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)



Prime Minister pays tribute to Olympic and Paralympic medalists

May 15, 2006
Ottawa, Ontario

At a reception held on Parliament Hill today, Prime Minister Stephen Harper honoured Canada’s Olympic and Paralympic medalists, who together, brought home 37 medals. “Yours was a record-shattering performance that is the pride of Canadians from St. John’s to Victoria.”

The Prime Minister went on to pay special tribute to Cindy Klassen and Brian McKeever, both of whom won multiple medals at the recent games. “Who could forget the joyous smile of Cindy Klassen when she won five medals, including gold, in speed skating to become Canada’s most decorated Olympic athlete? Or the performance of Paralympian Brian McKeever, who took four medals in cross country skiing,” he asked the crowd in attendance.

Prime Minister Harper concluded his remarks by thanking the athletes and commenting that their phenomenal performance bodes well for Canada’s chances in the four year’s time when Vancouver-Whistler hosts the Winter Olympics and Paralympics. “Your performance demonstrated Canadian courage and determination, traits that will be vividly on display when Canada welcomes the world in 2010. To you, our Olympians and Paralympians, on behalf of the people of Canada, I say a heartfelt thank you for your outstanding performances in Torino.”

The Prime Minister’s Office - Communications
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SPAMchk News Release

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)



Twenty-seven Canadian peace officers praised for their long and exemplary service to Canada

May 12, 2006
Ottawa, Ontario

Twenty-seven Canadian peace officers were praised today by Prime Minister Stephen Harper, for their long and exemplary service to Canada.

�These dedicated men and women have spent most of their working lives protecting and preserving Canada�s wildlife, aquatic species, oceans, national parks and national historic sites, and ensuring the security of our borders,� said the Prime Minister. �Through their actions and their long service they have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to conserving our natural and cultural heritage, to ensuring the safety of Canadians and international visitors. Their commitment has helped to make Canada the great and proud nation it is today.�

The 27 peace officers � five from Environment Canada, five from Parks Canada, six from Fisheries and Oceans Canada, five from Citizenship and Immigration Canada, and six from the Canada Border Services Agency � were the recipients of the Peace Officer Exemplary Service Medal, which was presented by Her Excellency, the Right Honourable Micha�lle Jean, Governor General of Canada, in a special ceremony held at Rideau Hall this morning.

Awarded for the first time ever this year, the Peace Officer Exemplary Service Medal was bestowed on Garry Bogdan, Gary Dick, R�gent Lalonde, Gary Colgan and Guy Lafranchise of Environment Canada�s Enforcement Directorate; Douglas Butt, Jean-Yves Bernatchez, Denis Burnip, Ross William Jones, Norman Smith and Peter Wilfred Taylor of Fisheries and Oceans Canada; Daniel Couchie, Duane Martin, Derek Tilson, Scott Ward and Ga�tan Synnott of Parks Canada; Karen Fata, Brian O�Connell, Daniel Alexander, Wendy Hickey (deceased), Rose-Ann Jang and Neil Mooney of the Canada Border Services Agency; and Salvatore Cutro, David Johnston, Graham Alldridge, Mike Bataluk, and Maureen Shakespeare of Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

The Peace Officer Exemplary Service Medal was created by the Governor General in June 2004 to recognize peace officers who have been employed at least 20 years in protecting the safety of the public in Canada and who have performed their duties in an exemplary manner. Further information on the medal is available at: www.gg.ca.


* * * * * * * * * *

BACKGROUNDER


Twenty-seven Canadian peace officers � five from Environment Canada, five from Parks Canada, six from Fisheries and Oceans Canada, five from Citizenship and Immigration Canada, and six from the Canada Border Services Agency � received the Peace Officer Exemplary Service Medal in 2006.

The medal was presented by Her Excellency, the Right Honourable Micha�lle Jean, Governor General of Canada, in a special ceremony held at Rideau Hall in Ottawa May 12.

The recipients, grouped by the federal agency or department where they currently or last worked are:

Parks Canada

Duane Martin: Currently the Law Enforcement Advisor to Parks Canada�s Director General, Western and Northern Canada, Mr. Martin began his career as a Parks Canada warden in 1966 at Waterton Lakes National Park of Canada in Alberta. In addition to playing a leadership role in most of the Agency�s major law enforcement efforts in Western Canada over the past 20 years, he has been involved in the development and delivery of its National Law Enforcement Training Program.

Derek Tilson: Over his more than 33 years of service as a Parks Canada warden,
Mr. Tilson has played a role in more than 100 rescue operations including several where his actions were directly responsible for saving the lives of national park visitors. Recognized by his peers for his exceptional community relations skills and his ability to use them effectively in a complex, multijurisdictional environment, he currently manages the law enforcement program at Waterton Lakes National Park of Canada.

Scott Ward: Known for his songs about the life of a Parks Canada warden and the national parks where he has worked, Mr. Ward, now retired, spent part of his 34 year career with Parks Canada in the saddle patrolling the backcountry on horseback. A dog master for more than 20 years at Banff National Park of Canada, he was involved in rescue operations and in mentoring new as well as longstanding wardens.

Daniel Couchie: Elected as Chief of the Ojibways of the Pic River First Nation in Ontario in September 2005, the same year he retired from Parks Canada, Mr. Couchie is an expert in resource conservation and has acted as a mentor to many of the Agency�s employees, including its Aboriginal trainees and warden recruits. During his 30-year career with Parks Canada he worked in five different national parks. He spent much of the latter part of his career at Pukaskwa National Park of Canada which included 10 years Chief Park Warden and assignments as the Acting Field Unit Superintendent for Northern Ontario.



Ga�tan Synnott: Equally at ease in the field and behind a computer, during his 22-year career with Parks Canada Mr. Synnott has been instrumental in the development of planning tools and an occurrence tracking system for the Agency�s law enforcement program. Now a Parks Canada warden in La Mauricie National Park of Canada in Quebec, his work as a trainer at the local, regional and national levels has contributed significantly to the effectiveness and capabilities of Parks Canada�s wardens.


Environment Canada, Enforcement Directorate

Gary W. Colgan: Mr. Colgan commenced his law enforcement career in July 1976 when he was appointed as a Customs Inspector for Canada Customs in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. He enjoyed a progressive career with Customs, holding various positions. In 1997, his final promotion with Customs was to the position of Director of the Intelligence and Contraband Division, Southern Ontario. In 1998, he transferred to Environment Canada where he is currently the Director of Wildlife Enforcement Division, Ontario Region.

Garry Bogdan: Mr. Bogdan received his first Peace Officer designation as a Fisheries Officer with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans in 1973 and worked in Hay River, N.W.T. He then went on to be a Conservation Officer with the Saskatchewan Department of Natural Resources, returning to the federal government in 1978. He has been with Environment Canada since that time as a game officer and is currently Regional Director of the Wildlife Enforcement Division in Edmonton, Alberta.

Gary Dick: Mr. Dick joined the RCMP at Prince George, B.C. in the spring of 1968, after completing training in Regina, Saskatchewan, and was subsequently posted to Lac La Biche, Alberta. Other postings were Fort Chipewyan, Fort McMurray, Vegreville and Edmonton Drug Section. Gary joined the Wildlife Enforcement Branch of the Canadian Wildlife Service in September 1974 and was posted to Inuvik, NWT. In 1977, he transferred to Vancouver, B.C. He currently is Regional Director of the Wildlife Enforcement Division for Pacific and Yukon Region

Guy Lafranchise: Mr. Lafranchise is Senior Enforcement Officer, Wildlife Enforcement, in the Atlantic Region. He specializes in the control and movement of exotic wildlife internationally and interprovincially. His experience in environmental law enforcement started in 1978 when he was sworn in as a federal fishery officer. In 1989, he started his employment with Environment Canada where he was appointed as a federal game warden. His 28 years of environmental law enforcement has taken him across Canada, through parts of the United States and overseas. Guy�s service includes the successful implementation of national and international conservation law enforcement programs aimed at preserving renewable resources.





R�gent (Ray) Lalonde: R�gent (Ray) Lalonde started his law enforcement career with the Ontario Provincial Police. In 1976, he was appointed as a game officer with the Canadian Wildlife Service, Department of the Environment. He has been involved in wildlife law enforcement with the department at the headquarters level, coordinating wildlife enforcement investigations nationally and internationally. R�gent is currently Chief of Operations and Chairman of the INTERPOL Wildlife Working Group.

Fisheries and Oceans

Jean-Yves Bernatchez: Mr. Bernatchez began his career as a fishery officer in 1981, and currently works in the Gasp�, Quebec office. Over his career, he has dedicated himself to supplying the best possible service through team building and efficiency. He remains an active instructor of self-defence and firearms and his dedication and performance are recognized as being above and beyond the call of duty.

Denis E. Burnip: Mr. Burnip started his career as a fishery officer in 1979. He is currently posted in Terrace, British Columbia, where he has seen success in ensuring compliance, effective utilization of enforcement resources, successful prosecutions, education and deterrence. He remains committed to the community by being actively involved in volunteering at schools and community programs.

Douglas Butt: Mr. Butt has worked as a fishery officer in the Grand Falls-Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador office since 1971. In 1990, he received a Citation for Excellence for his work in coordinating the winter Gulf cod fishery. Also, since 1996, he has been the lead investigator on a continuing file which involves 101 charges against sealers. Mr. Butt is currently the lead officer with the Newfoundland and Labrador Region�s Special Enforcement Team.

Ross William Jones: Mr. Jones began his career as a fishery officer in Wedgeport, Nova Scotia, in 1976. He now works in Central and Arctic Region�s Burlington, Ontario, office. Utilizing great leadership skills and a positive attitude he has unified and boosted the morale and productivity of his staff. Mr. Jones has participated in the development of formal compliance protocols and working agreements promoting links and partnerships with other agencies.

Norman Smith: Mr. Smith began his career as a fishery officer in 1983, and is now Senior Staff Officer, Recruitment and Training at DFO Regional Headquarters in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. In his current position, he is active in the development of the DFO fishery officer recruit training program, the use of force and officer safety program and the initiation of safe work practices for fishery officers.

Peter Wilfred Taylor: Mr. Taylor started his career as a fishery officer in 1985, working his way toward his current position as Area Chief in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. He is active in the training and development of fishery officers in the Use of Force and the Officer Safety program. Mr. Taylor is a strong leader and has proven his ability to lead major enforcement operations using high tech surveillance equipment.



Citizenship and Immigration Canada

Graham Alldridge: Mr. Alldridge began his career as a border immigration officer with Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) in 1974. Throughout his 32 years of exemplary service with CIC, he has held a range of positions at the operational and corporate levels, both in Canada and abroad. In 2003, he received the Commemorative Medal for the Golden Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for the leadership he exercised on three major security cases and for his assistance in implementing the danger portion of the pre-removal risk assessment procedure under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

Salvatore Cutro: Mr. Cutro has been a federal public servant since 1974. Throughout this time, he has consistently demonstrated adaptability and professionalism in his work. His broad experience in the Public Service has made him a multiskilled employee who is highly valued by his peers as well as by his managers. Always willing to lend a helping hand and to take on extra work when needed, Mr. Cutro�s comportment, service to clients, and respect for the laws, regulations and objectives of CIC have made him an integral part of the CIC team.

David William Johnston: An employee of CIC since 1972, Mr. Johnston has held the positions of admissions officer, immigration counsellor supervisor and, for the past 24 years, manager of the Department�s Orillia, Ontario, office. As a manager, he has provided a full range of services, including the enforcement activities of arrests and detentions. Over his career, Mr. Johnston has consistently conducted himself with the utmost integrity while demonstrating the respectful values that are so important at CIC.

Mike Bataluk: Mr. Bataluk first joined CIC in 1980, and has worked for both CIC and Canada Customs in their port of entry and enforcement programs. He has been a frontline officer at the Emerson and Winnipeg ports of entry, performing enforcement duties in these locations for 20 years. Recognized by his peers as a subject-matter expert, Mr. Bataluk has consistently demonstrated a high level of integrity in performing his duties, as well as a strong commitment to CIC programs and the safety and security of Canadians.

Maureen Shakespeare: Since she became an examining officer with CIC in 1981, Ms. Shakespeare has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to enforcing the Department�s citizenship and immigration programs. Her perseverance and work with the Case Management Branch has led to several cases being referred for revocation of citizenship. As a member of CIC�s B.C./Yukon Marine Team, she has actively participated in the interception of migrant ships. Ms. Shakespeare has received numerous commendations from the police forces of northern Vancouver Island for her support and assistance.







Canada Border Services Agency

Daniel Alexander: Now an intelligence officer with the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) in the Quebec Region, Mr. Alexander began his career with the agency as a border officer. In addition to applying import and export laws and regulations, he maintained regular and effective relations with CBSA�s clients. Up until 1973, Mr. Alexander�s work touched on all sectors � air, sea, railway, land borders and postal � of CBSA�s activities. As a dog master from 1982 to 1984, he initiated a sniffer dog contraband detection service and helped to implement and promote in the region. From 1990 to 1992, as senior information officer for the Quebec region, he liaised with national as well as international clients. He has also been responsible for providing national audiences with information on alcohol and tobacco.

Karen Fata: Ms. Fata has over 30 years of dedicated service with CBSA, all in Sault Ste. Marie. Highly respected by her peers and subordinates, she carried the dedication she demonstrated as a CIC officer into subsequent management roles. Ms. Fata has been a leading force for the integration of CBSA at the port and district level, acted as a technical expert for the entire district, and independently developed as well as presented integrated training programs. She started working in the public service in 1974 as an examining officer. In 1983, she was appointed supervisor, then superintendent in 2004. She is now Chief of Operations in CBSA�s northern Ontario region.

Wendy Hickey (posthumous): Ms. Hickey began her career with Canada Customs as a clerk back in 1980, but within a year was promoted to the position of Customs Inspector. Selected as a member of the Customs Drug Team within the Intelligence and Interdiction Division (I & I) in the late �80s, she expanded her knowledge of illicit drugs and smuggling trends, and became a Customs Enforcement Officer. In this role, she was often chosen to provide training to her peers. Frequently assigned to work Joint Forces Operations with members of the RCMP, Ontario Provincial Police Drug Unit and Windsor Police Services Drug Team, she was responsible for many significant seizures at ports of entry. Her dedication and integrity are often referred to by the law enforcement officers she worked with throughout her career.

Rose-Ann Jang: Ms. Jang began her successful career as a Customs Inspector at Vancouver International Airport in 1981. Three years later, she became one of the founding members of the newly created Customs Drug Team. The impact by this unit and her work in particular on the importation of drugs, specifically heroin, into Canada has never been matched. In 1995, Ms. Jang was promoted to the Chief of Intelligence, the position she holds today. She continues to inspire others and leads by example through dedicated hard work, professionalism, leadership and her overall love for the work she does and the great results it achieves.



Neil Mooney: Mr. Mooney has 21 years experience as a Customs Inspector, Customs Superintendent and Chief of Intelligence Operations. He has significant experience in International Traffic, Commercial Operations, Special Projects and Intelligence, and over 14 years of management experience. Mr. Mooney was the regional coordinator for the Canada/U.S. Accord CANPASS Project. He has also coordinated and delivered personal protection training to customs officers in the Niagara/Fort Erie Region, and implemented the Firearms Safe Handling Course in the region. Committed to excellence, professionalism and integrity, Mr. Mooney received an award of recognition for his significant contributions to CBSA� Personal Protection Training Program as well as the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada.

Brian O�Connell: Mr. O�Connell is in his 31st year of exemplary service with CBSA. He has spent 21 years of his career at Pearson International Airport as both an Officer (Peace Officer) and a Superintendent. His last 10 years have been in the intelligence field, and he is currently one of the longest serving members of the legacy Immigration Intelligence Unit. He is one of the few select officers to have been accepted by the Ontario Provincial Court Criminal Division as an expert witness, and he continues to provide analytical reports on fraudulent documentation that are used in various judicial systems. Stationed overseas for numerous assignments involving document interdiction and airline training exercises, he has trained the staff of many airlines, police and immigration agencies in several locations throughout Canada, the United States, Europe and Asia in fraudulent document detection techniques.


The Prime Minister�s Office - Communications
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AdmID:24A31C70CF8DE18E3E0C7F818F4B2143

From the Prime Minister's Web Site <http://www.pm.gc.ca/eng/>
(http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

_____

Twenty-seven Canadian peace officers praised for their long and
exemplary service to Canada

May 12, 2006
Ottawa, Ontario

Twenty-seven Canadian peace officers were praised today by Prime
Minister Stephen Harper, for their long and exemplary service to Canada.

These dedicated men and women have spent most of their working lives
protecting and preserving Canadas wildlife, aquatic species, oceans,
national parks and national historic sites, and ensuring the security of
our borders, said the Prime Minister. Through their actions and their
long service they have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to
conserving our natural and cultural heritage, to ensuring the safety of
Canadians and international visitors. Their commitment has helped to
make Canada the great and proud nation it is today.

The 27 peace officers five from Environment Canada, five from Parks
Canada, six from Fisheries and Oceans Canada, five from Citizenship and
Immigration Canada, and six from the Canada Border Services Agency
were the recipients of the Peace Officer Exemplary Service Medal, which
was presented by Her Excellency, the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean,
Governor General of Canada, in a special ceremony held at Rideau Hall
this morning.

Awarded for the first time ever this year, the Peace Officer Exemplary
Service Medal was bestowed on Garry Bogdan, Gary Dick, Régent Lalonde,
Gary Colgan and Guy Lafranchise of Environment Canadas Enforcement
Directorate; Douglas Butt, Jean-Yves Bernatchez, Denis Burnip, Ross
William Jones, Norman Smith and Peter Wilfred Taylor of Fisheries and
Oceans Canada; Daniel Couchie, Duane Martin, Derek Tilson, Scott Ward
and Gaétan Synnott of Parks Canada; Karen Fata, Brian OConnell, Daniel
Alexander, Wendy Hickey (deceased), Rose-Ann Jang and Neil Mooney of the
Canada Border Services Agency; and Salvatore Cutro, David Johnston,
Graham Alldridge, Mike Bataluk, and Maureen Shakespeare of Citizenship
and Immigration Canada.

The Peace Officer Exemplary Service Medal was created by the Governor
General in June 2004 to recognize peace officers who have been employed
at least 20 years in protecting the safety of the public in Canada and
who have performed their duties in an exemplary manner. Further
information on the medal is available at: www.gg.ca <http://www.gg.ca> .

* * * * * * * * * *

BACKGROUNDER

Twenty-seven Canadian peace officers five from Environment Canada,
five from Parks Canada, six from Fisheries and Oceans Canada, five from
Citizenship and Immigration Canada, and six from the Canada Border
Services Agency received the Peace Officer Exemplary Service Medal in
2006.

The medal was presented by Her Excellency, the Right Honourable
Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, in a special ceremony held
at Rideau Hall in Ottawa May 12.

The recipients, grouped by the federal agency or department where they
currently or last worked are:

Parks Canada

Duane Martin: Currently the Law Enforcement Advisor to Parks Canadas
Director General, Western and Northern Canada, Mr. Martin began his
career as a Parks Canada warden in 1966 at Waterton Lakes National Park
of Canada in Alberta. In addition to playing a leadership role in most
of the Agencys major law enforcement efforts in Western Canada over the
past 20 years, he has been involved in the development and delivery of
its National Law Enforcement Training Program.

Derek Tilson: Over his more than 33 years of service as a Parks Canada
warden,
Mr. Tilson has played a role in more than 100 rescue operations
including several where his actions were directly responsible for saving
the lives of national park visitors. Recognized by his peers for his
exceptional community relations skills and his ability to use them
effectively in a complex, multijurisdictional environment, he currently
manages the law enforcement program at Waterton Lakes National Park of
Canada.

Scott Ward: Known for his songs about the life of a Parks Canada warden
and the national parks where he has worked, Mr. Ward, now retired, spent
part of his 34 year career with Parks Canada in the saddle patrolling
the backcountry on horseback. A dog master for more than 20 years at
Banff National Park of Canada, he was involved in rescue operations and
in mentoring new as well as longstanding wardens.

Daniel Couchie: Elected as Chief of the Ojibways of the Pic River First
Nation in Ontario in September 2005, the same year he retired from Parks
Canada, Mr. Couchie is an expert in resource conservation and has acted
as a mentor to many of the Agencys employees, including its Aboriginal
trainees and warden recruits. During his 30-year career with Parks
Canada he worked in five different national parks. He spent much of the
latter part of his career at Pukaskwa National Park of Canada which
included 10 years Chief Park Warden and assignments as the Acting Field
Unit Superintendent for Northern Ontario.

Gaétan Synnott: Equally at ease in the field and behind a computer,
during his 22-year career with Parks Canada Mr. Synnott has been
instrumental in the development of planning tools and an occurrence
tracking system for the Agencys law enforcement program. Now a Parks
Canada warden in La Mauricie National Park of Canada in Quebec, his work
as a trainer at the local, regional and national levels has contributed
significantly to the effectiveness and capabilities of Parks Canadas
wardens.

Environment Canada, Enforcement Directorate

Gary W. Colgan: Mr. Colgan commenced his law enforcement career in July
1976 when he was appointed as a Customs Inspector for Canada Customs in
Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. He enjoyed a progressive career with Customs,
holding various positions. In 1997, his final promotion with Customs was
to the position of Director of the Intelligence and Contraband Division,
Southern Ontario. In 1998, he transferred to Environment Canada where he
is currently the Director of Wildlife Enforcement Division, Ontario
Region.

Garry Bogdan: Mr. Bogdan received his first Peace Officer designation as
a Fisheries Officer with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans in 1973
and worked in Hay River, N.W.T. He then went on to be a Conservation
Officer with the Saskatchewan Department of Natural Resources, returning
to the federal government in 1978. He has been with Environment Canada
since that time as a game officer and is currently Regional Director of
the Wildlife Enforcement Division in Edmonton, Alberta.

Gary Dick: Mr. Dick joined the RCMP at Prince George, B.C. in the spring
of 1968, after completing training in Regina, Saskatchewan, and was
subsequently posted to Lac La Biche, Alberta. Other postings were Fort
Chipewyan, Fort McMurray, Vegreville and Edmonton Drug Section. Gary
joined the Wildlife Enforcement Branch of the Canadian Wildlife Service
in September 1974 and was posted to Inuvik, NWT. In 1977, he transferred
to Vancouver, B.C. He currently is Regional Director of the Wildlife
Enforcement Division for Pacific and Yukon Region

Guy Lafranchise: Mr. Lafranchise is Senior Enforcement Officer, Wildlife
Enforcement, in the Atlantic Region. He specializes in the control and
movement of exotic wildlife internationally and interprovincially. His
experience in environmental law enforcement started in 1978 when he was
sworn in as a federal fishery officer. In 1989, he started his
employment with Environment Canada where he was appointed as a federal
game warden. His 28 years of environmental law enforcement has taken him
across Canada, through parts of the United States and overseas. Guys
service includes the successful implementation of national and
international conservation law enforcement programs aimed at preserving
renewable resources.

Régent (Ray) Lalonde: Régent (Ray) Lalonde started his law enforcement
career with the Ontario Provincial Police. In 1976, he was appointed as
a game officer with the Canadian Wildlife Service, Department of the
Environment. He has been involved in wildlife law enforcement with the
department at the headquarters level, coordinating wildlife enforcement
investigations nationally and internationally. Régent is currently Chief
of Operations and Chairman of the INTERPOL Wildlife Working Group.

Fisheries and Oceans

Jean-Yves Bernatchez: Mr. Bernatchez began his career as a fishery
officer in 1981, and currently works in the Gaspé, Quebec office. Over
his career, he has dedicated himself to supplying the best possible
service through team building and efficiency. He remains an active
instructor of self-defence and firearms and his dedication and
performance are recognized as being above and beyond the call of duty.

Denis E. Burnip: Mr. Burnip started his career as a fishery officer in
1979. He is currently posted in Terrace, British Columbia, where he has
seen success in ensuring compliance, effective utilization of
enforcement resources, successful prosecutions, education and
deterrence. He remains committed to the community by being actively
involved in volunteering at schools and community programs.

Douglas Butt: Mr. Butt has worked as a fishery officer in the Grand
Falls-Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador office since 1971. In 1990, he
received a Citation for Excellence for his work in coordinating the
winter Gulf cod fishery. Also, since 1996, he has been the lead
investigator on a continuing file which involves 101 charges against
sealers. Mr. Butt is currently the lead officer with the Newfoundland
and Labrador Regions Special Enforcement Team.

Ross William Jones: Mr. Jones began his career as a fishery officer in
Wedgeport, Nova Scotia, in 1976. He now works in Central and Arctic
Regions Burlington, Ontario, office. Utilizing great leadership skills
and a positive attitude he has unified and boosted the morale and
productivity of his staff. Mr. Jones has participated in the development
of formal compliance protocols and working agreements promoting links
and partnerships with other agencies.

Norman Smith: Mr. Smith began his career as a fishery officer in 1983,
and is now Senior Staff Officer, Recruitment and Training at DFO
Regional Headquarters in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. In his current
position, he is active in the development of the DFO fishery officer
recruit training program, the use of force and officer safety program
and the initiation of safe work practices for fishery officers.

Peter Wilfred Taylor: Mr. Taylor started his career as a fishery officer
in 1985, working his way toward his current position as Area Chief in
Antigonish, Nova Scotia. He is active in the training and development of
fishery officers in the Use of Force and the Officer Safety program. Mr.
Taylor is a strong leader and has proven his ability to lead major
enforcement operations using high tech surveillance equipment.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada

Graham Alldridge: Mr. Alldridge began his career as a border immigration
officer with Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) in 1974.
Throughout his 32 years of exemplary service with CIC, he has held a
range of positions at the operational and corporate levels, both in
Canada and abroad. In 2003, he received the Commemorative Medal for the
Golden Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for the leadership he
exercised on three major security cases and for his assistance in
implementing the danger portion of the pre-removal risk assessment
procedure under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

Salvatore Cutro: Mr. Cutro has been a federal public servant since 1974.
Throughout this time, he has consistently demonstrated adaptability and
professionalism in his work. His broad experience in the Public Service
has made him a multiskilled employee who is highly valued by his peers
as well as by his managers. Always willing to lend a helping hand and to
take on extra work when needed, Mr. Cutros comportment, service to
clients, and respect for the laws, regulations and objectives of CIC
have made him an integral part of the CIC team.

David William Johnston: An employee of CIC since 1972, Mr. Johnston has
held the positions of admissions officer, immigration counsellor
supervisor and, for the past 24 years, manager of the Departments
Orillia, Ontario, office. As a manager, he has provided a full range of
services, including the enforcement activities of arrests and
detentions. Over his career, Mr. Johnston has consistently conducted
himself with the utmost integrity while demonstrating the respectful
values that are so important at CIC.

Mike Bataluk: Mr. Bataluk first joined CIC in 1980, and has worked for
both CIC and Canada Customs in their port of entry and enforcement
programs. He has been a frontline officer at the Emerson and Winnipeg
ports of entry, performing enforcement duties in these locations for 20
years. Recognized by his peers as a subject-matter expert, Mr. Bataluk
has consistently demonstrated a high level of integrity in performing
his duties, as well as a strong commitment to CIC programs and the
safety and security of Canadians.

Maureen Shakespeare: Since she became an examining officer with CIC in
1981, Ms. Shakespeare has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment
to enforcing the Departments citizenship and immigration programs. Her
perseverance and work with the Case Management Branch has led to several
cases being referred for revocation of citizenship. As a member of CICs
B.C./Yukon Marine Team, she has actively participated in the
interception of migrant ships. Ms. Shakespeare has received numerous
commendations from the police forces of northern Vancouver Island for
her support and assistance.

Canada Border Services Agency

Daniel Alexander: Now an intelligence officer with the Canada Border
Service Agency (CBSA) in the Quebec Region, Mr. Alexander began his
career with the agency as a border officer. In addition to applying
import and export laws and regulations, he maintained regular and
effective relations with CBSAs clients. Up until 1973, Mr. Alexanders
work touched on all sectors air, sea, railway, land borders and postal
of CBSAs activities. As a dog master from 1982 to 1984, he initiated
a sniffer dog contraband detection service and helped to implement and
promote in the region. From 1990 to 1992, as senior information officer
for the Quebec region, he liaised with national as well as international
clients. He has also been responsible for providing national audiences
with information on alcohol and tobacco.

Karen Fata: Ms. Fata has over 30 years of dedicated service with CBSA,
all in Sault Ste. Marie. Highly respected by her peers and subordinates,
she carried the dedication she demonstrated as a CIC officer into
subsequent management roles. Ms. Fata has been a leading force for the
integration of CBSA at the port and district level, acted as a technical
expert for the entire district, and independently developed as well as
presented integrated training programs. She started working in the
public service in 1974 as an examining officer. In 1983, she was
appointed supervisor, then superintendent in 2004. She is now Chief of
Operations in CBSAs northern Ontario region.

Wendy Hickey (posthumous): Ms. Hickey began her career with Canada
Customs as a clerk back in 1980, but within a year was promoted to the
position of Customs Inspector. Selected as a member of the Customs Drug
Team within the Intelligence and Interdiction Division (I & I) in the
late 80s, she expanded her knowledge of illicit drugs and smuggling
trends, and became a Customs Enforcement Officer. In this role, she was
often chosen to provide training to her peers. Frequently assigned to
work Joint Forces Operations with members of the RCMP, Ontario
Provincial Police Drug Unit and Windsor Police Services Drug Team, she
was responsible for many significant seizures at ports of entry. Her
dedication and integrity are often referred to by the law enforcement
officers she worked with throughout her career.

Rose-Ann Jang: Ms. Jang began her successful career as a Customs
Inspector at Vancouver International Airport in 1981. Three years later,
she became one of the founding members of the newly created Customs Drug
Team. The impact by this unit and her work in particular on the
importation of drugs, specifically heroin, into Canada has never been
matched. In 1995, Ms. Jang was promoted to the Chief of Intelligence,
the position she holds today. She continues to inspire others and leads
by example through dedicated hard work, professionalism, leadership and
her overall love for the work she does and the great results it
achieves.

Neil Mooney: Mr. Mooney has 21 years experience as a Customs Inspector,
Customs Superintendent and Chief of Intelligence Operations. He has
significant experience in International Traffic, Commercial Operations,
Special Projects and Intelligence, and over 14 years of management
experience. Mr. Mooney was the regional coordinator for the Canada/U.S.
Accord CANPASS Project. He has also coordinated and delivered personal
protection training to customs officers in the Niagara/Fort Erie Region,
and implemented the Firearms Safe Handling Course in the region.
Committed to excellence, professionalism and integrity, Mr. Mooney
received an award of recognition for his significant contributions to
CBSA Personal Protection Training Program as well as the Commemorative
Medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada.

Brian OConnell: Mr. OConnell is in his 31st year of exemplary service
with CBSA. He has spent 21 years of his career at Pearson International
Airport as both an Officer (Peace Officer) and a Superintendent. His
last 10 years have been in the intelligence field, and he is currently
one of the longest serving members of the legacy Immigration
Intelligence Unit. He is one of the few select officers to have been
accepted by the Ontario Provincial Court Criminal Division as an expert
witness, and he continues to provide analytical reports on fraudulent
documentation that are used in various judicial systems. Stationed
overseas for numerous assignments involving document interdiction and
airline training exercises, he has trained the staff of many airlines,
police and immigration agencies in several locations throughout Canada,
the United States, Europe and Asia in fraudulent document detection
techniques.

_____

The Prime Ministers Office - Communications
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