Statement

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

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Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on recent events in Egypt

February 1, 2011
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on recent events in Egypt:

"Following President Mubarak's announcement today that he will not seek re-election, Canada reiterates its support for the Egyptian people as they transition to new leadership and a promising future.

"Canada supports universal values – including freedom, democracy and justice – and the right to the freedom of assembly, speech and information. As Egypt moves towards new leadership, we encourage all parties to work together to ensure an orderly transition toward a free and vibrant society in which all Egyptians are able to enjoy these rights and freedoms – not a transition that leads to violence, instability and extremism.

"We commend the many groups, such as the Egyptian military, who have worked hard to support freedom of assembly and to minimize violence during recent demonstrations. We stand by the people of Egypt, young Egyptians in particular, for their steadfast support for the fundamental values that Canadians profoundly share with them.

"We also extend our condolences to the families and friends of those who were killed or injured during recent events.

"We urge all parties in Egypt to renounce violence and allow peaceful and meaningful dialogue between the people and government to address political, economic and social concerns. This dialogue should lead to free and fair elections and a government that supports universal values."

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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Backgrounder

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

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R. Peter Mackinnon

President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Saskatchewan

February 1, 2011
Ottawa, Ontario

Peter MacKinnon has been President and Vice Chancellor of the University of Saskatchewan since July 1999. He was appointed in October 1998 and following a review, reappointed in December 2002. He was reappointed for another five-year term, which began July 1,2009.

Originally from Prince Edward Island, he has lived in Saskatoon since 1975. He previously served the University as Acting Vice President (Academic) (1996), Dean of Law (1988 1998) and Assistant, Associate and Full Professor of Law (1975 1998).

Educated at the University of Saskatchewan, Queen's and Dalhousie, Mr. MacKinnon articled in Kingston and was admitted to the Law Society of Ontario in 1975 and to the Law Society of Saskatchewan in 1979. He was appointed Queen's Counsel in 1990.

His national appointments include the Science, Technology and Innovation Council of Canada (2007 and continuing); Canadian Judicial Council Chairperson's Advisory Group (2006 and continuing); Director, Confederation Centre of the Arts, Charlottetown, P.E.I. (2005 and continuing); Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada (Chair, 2003 2005); Advisory Council for the Order of Canada (2003 2005); Council of Canadian Law Deans (President, 1994); and the Canadian Association of Law Teachers (President, 1981 1982). His provincial appointments include Bencher, Law Society of Saskatchewan (1988 1998); Member of the Board, Law Foundation of Saskatchewan (1988 1998); and the Saskatchewan Honours Advisory Council (1999 and continuing).

He is Honorary President of the Canadian Club of Saskatoon (1999 and continuing); a member of the Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority Board of Directors (1999 and continuing); Meewasin Valley Authority Board of Directors (1999 and continuing); and the Saskatoon Airport Authority Board of Directors (2003 and continuing).

He is a co editor of three books and author of many articles, commentaries and reviews in Canadian and international legal journals. He is the recipient of many professional and service awards including the Canadian Bar Association Distinguished Service Award (Saskatchewan Branch) (2005); the Saskatchewan Centennial Medal (2005) and the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal (2002).

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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News Release

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

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PM announces appointments to the Advisory Committee on the Public Service

February 1, 2011
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced today the appointment of Mr. Peter MacKinnon to the Advisory Committee on the Public Service. This Committee was established in November 2006 to provide an external perspective and expert advice to the Prime Minister and the Clerk of the Privy Council on the renewal and future development of the Public Service. The Committee comprises nine eminent Canadians, all of whom are recognized leaders in their professions and in Canadian society.

"I am very pleased that Mr. MacKinnon has agreed to lend his expertise and perspective to the work of this Committee," Prime Minister Harper said. "I am confident his considerable experience will contribute to the Committee's record of success."

The main objective of the Advisory Committee is to help ensure that the federal public service remains strong, dynamic and relevant. The Public Service of Canada is a vital national institution, with public servants delivering programs and services to millions of Canadians in every region of the country and around the world.

The Prime Minister also expressed his sincere appreciation to a departing member of the Advisory Committee, Dr. Indira Samarasekera, thanking her for her valuable contribution.

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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Statement

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

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Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on Black History Month

February 1, 2011
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today in recognition of Black History Month:

"February is Black History Month and an opportunity to celebrate the values of perseverance and dignity that have defined the black community in Canada.

"This year, we celebrate four outstanding Canadian icons whose stories characterize the pride, strength and dignity that have driven black Canadians to realize their ambitions in different fields.

"John Ware, born into slavery in South Carolina, moved to Alberta where he achieved success and fame. As a pioneer of "steer wrestling," his legacy is enjoyed by more than a million people each year at the Calgary Stampede.

"At the turn of the 20th Century, Carrie Best broke down barriers and changed mindsets – thriving as a broadcaster, author, human rights activist and the founder of the first black-owned newspaper in Nova Scotia.

"Two of Canada's greatest athletes also overcame obstacles and changed attitudes in professional sports. Ferguson Jenkins became the only Canadian player to be enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame, while Jarome Iginla was the first black captain in the National Hockey League.

"During Black History Month, I encourage Canadians to learn more about the important contributions of black Canadians to our great nation and to participate in various events celebrating this part of our culture."

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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