June 21, 2007
ST. JOHN'S, NLThe Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Edward Roberts,
presented 20 members of the Canadian Coast Guard with a 2007 Exemplary Service Award
at a ceremony held today at Government House in St. John's.
"These recipients embody the best of what the Canadian Coast Guard stands for,"
said the Honourable Loyola Hearn, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans. "They are steadfast
in their commitment to excellence, and have dedicated their careers to serving the
greater maritime community. I am proud to offer my congratulations as we honour
their exemplary service today."
The Canadian Coast Guard Exemplary Service Medal is part of the Canadian Honours
System and recognizes Coast Guard employees who, in the course of their duties,
provide service in difficult or critical situations. The award was created to honour
members of the service who are exposed to the rigors of sea duty and other hazardous
environments, and whose service record covers long and meritorious service in that
environment.
Individuals who have worked a minimum of 20 years with the Coast Guard, with
at least 10 of those years spent in a risk environment, are eligible for the award
provided that service is marked by exemplary conduct. After 30 years service, employees
are eligible for the Bar that attaches to the medal.
The Coast Guard is a special operating agency and an integral part of Fisheries
and Oceans Canada, supporting the delivery of the department's programs through
the provision of maritime services. The Coast Guard provides services related to
search and rescue, environmental response, icebreaking, marine communications and
traffic services and aids to navigation. In addition, the fleet also supports maritime
security, fisheries surveillance and enforcement and scientific research.
Since 2006, Canada's New Government has committed more than $750 million towards
fleet renewal, and added a permanent $45 million to the Coast Guard's annual budget
to help cover operational costs.
Backgrounder:
2007 Canadian Coast Guard Exemplary Service Awards
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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Larry Vaters
Communications Officer
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
(709) 772-7624
