Ottawa, Ontario (April 6, 2009) - The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Metis and Non-Status Indians, and Tim Lougheed, president of the Canadian Science Writers’Association, today issued a call for English and French submissions for the International Polar Year (IPY) Canada Award for Excellence in Northern Science Journalism.
“This award helps mark Canada’s leading role in IPY as well as the critical role journalists play in increasing Canadians’ understanding of Arctic issues,” said Minister Strahl.
“IPY is a global initiative and a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” added Mr. Lougheed. “This award honours journalists’ efforts in describing different aspects of this massive event.”
In order to be eligible, submissions must have been published in a paid Canadian publication in 2008, be at least 1,500 words in length, and include reference to International Polar Year research carried out in Canada. Judging will be by an independent panel of volunteers of the Canadian Science Writers’ Association, whose criteria will include the ability to convey complex northern science issues to a general audience in a compelling, creative way. Complete criteria and entry forms can be found on the web site of the Canadian Science Writers’ Association at www.cswa.ca.
English and French winners of the IPY Canada Excellence in Northern Science Journalism Award will be announced at the annual meeting of the Canadian Science Writers’ Association in Sudbury May 23, 2009. Each winner will be awarded a cash prize of $2,500. Submissions must be mailed to The Canadian Science Writers’ Association, 150 Ontario Street, Port Hope, Ontario, L1A 2V6 and received no later than April 17, 2009.
International Polar Year is the largest-ever international program of scientific research focused on the Arctic and Antarctic regions. As a leading participant in IPY the Government of Canada has funded 51 research projects in 2007-2008 focusing on climate change impacts and adaptation, and the health and well-being of Northern communities. The federal government has provided $156 million over six years to support Canada's participation in this international initiative.
For more information, please contact:
Minister's Office
Nina Chiarelli
Canada Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
(819) 997-0002
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160
