FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ottawa, May 30, 2007 – Department of National Defence and Canadian Forces Ombudsman, Mr. Yves Côté, presented commendations to four members of Canada's Defence community at a special ceremony today on Parliament Hill. Also in attendance were Mr. Rick Casson, Member of Parliament for Lethbridge and Chair of the House of Commons Standing Committee on National Defence, and Major-General Daniel Benjamin, Commander, Canadian Operational Support Command.
The sixth annual commendations ceremony included the presentation of the new
Ombudsman's Special Recognition Award, which recognizes individuals who have gone well above and beyond the normal requirements of their job in bringing about positive and lasting change to the Defence community.
Mr. Côté also presented the Liz Hoffman Memorial Commendation for Complaint Resolution. This award serves to acknowledge the contribution of National Defence employees and Canadian Forces members who have demonstrated outstanding problem-solving and complaint-resolution skills in working cooperatively with the Ombudsman's Office.
"These four individuals have demonstrated exemplary dedication to duty and a deep commitment to the welfare of our men and women in uniform, our civilian employees and our military families," stated Mr. Côté. He added, "Their courage, compassion and professionalism has brought pride to the institution and has served to underscore the outstanding work of the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Forces."
This year's recipients of the Ombudsman's Special Recognition Award are:
Ms. Brenda Ebear
Ms. Ebear consistently goes above and beyond her duties as Greenhouse Supervisor and Roads and Grounds Second-in-Command at 4 Wing in Cold Lake, Alberta, to help others. As Workplace Relations Advisor, Ms. Ebear often assists in the resolution of potential workplace conflicts. She also regularly organizes unit and wing-wide events that promote pride in the workplace, teambuilding and camaraderie. Ms. Ebear's initiative and profound interest in the quality of life of all 4 Wing personnel has earned her the deep respect of her peers and her supervisors.
Captain Jean-François Tchernoff
In his G1 Services duties at 35 Canadian Brigade Headquarters, Captain Tchernoff has always sought to improve the institution while never losing sight of the rights of the members who comprise it. He does this by striving to solve personnel-related problems with sensitivity, respect and the utmost professionalism. The courage that he has demonstrated in addressing problems and in finding fair solutions has helped the Canadian Forces prevent a large number of grievances. Through his remarkable loyalty to the values of integrity, dedication and sacrifice, Captain Tchernoff is a proud and worthy ambassador of 35 CBG and its "Honour and Courage" motto.
The Liz Hoffman Memorial Commendation for Complaint Resolution is awarded to:
Mr. Shawn Hearn
As Peer Support Coordinator for the Operational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS) program in Newfoundland, Mr. Hearn has participated in a number of initiatives aimed at implementing new ways for members in remote areas to access medical treatment. Mr. Hearn has saved many lives by being aware, caring and present. Whenever called upon by the Office of the Ombudsman to obtain information, advice or guidance, Mr. Hearn has always been very prompt and thorough in responding. He has offered his considerable insight into important systemic investigations and has shown great interest in the issues with which the office deals.
Colonel Claude Wauthier
In his duties as Director General Canadian Forces Grievance Authority, Colonel Wauthier has proven to be an important ally of the Office of the Ombudsman. Using a global approach and his systemic understanding of conflict resolution, Colonel Wauthier has provided unconditional support to Ombudsman investigators. Additionally, in collaboration with other organizations responsible for conflict resolution in the Canadian Forces, Colonel Wauthier has developed feedback mechanisms and processes aimed at improving and expediting conflict prevention and decision-making in grievance cases. "Early, local and informal" is at the heart of Colonel Wauthier's vocabulary and his day-to-day work.
Recipients of the Liz Hoffman Memorial Commendation for Complaint Resolution were nominated by investigators within the Ombudsman's Office. Liz Hoffman's daughter, Andrea Hoffman, assisted the Ombudsman in choosing the final recipients. Nominations for the
Special Recognition Award were submitted by peers and colleagues and reviewed by the Ombudsman and his Advisory Committee.
For additional information:
Angelina Nikkel
Communications Officer
Office of the Ombudsman
Department of National Defence and the Canadian Forces
Tel.: 613-996-4285
