April 14, 2014 - Vancouver, British Columbia
The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, today awarded Mr. Michael Griswold a 2013 Small Craft Harbours Prix d’Excellence. Mr. Griswold received the national award under the category of “National Individual Commitment” for his work as the volunteer Chair of the Quadra Island Harbour Authority (QIHA), which manages both the Heriot Bay and Quathiaski Cove small craft harbours.
Under Mr. Griswold’s leadership, the QIHA played a key role in ensuring the successful implementation of a large, multi-year, major upgrade to the Heriot Bay small craft harbour. In addition to countless volunteer hours invested in the project, the QIHA also secured $800,000 from external funding partners. This project will benefit the community of Quadra Island and the shellfish industry in the area.
Mr. Griswold also participates on the Fraser River Panel of the Pacific Salmon Commission and is the Vice President and Area H Harvest Committee Member of the Gulf Trollers Association.
“This 2013 Small Craft Harbours Prix d’Excellence recognizes Mr. Michael Grisworld’s exceptional contribution as the volunteer Chair of the Quadra Island Harbour Authority,” said Minister Shea. “Mr. Griswold’s dedicated leadership was essential in the implementation of a project that will benefit the community of Quadra Island. His commitment and determination exemplify the work of Harbour Authorities across the country. With their efforts, local economies benefit, jobs are created, and we contribute to economic growth in coastal communities.”
"I am incredibly honoured and humbled to be recognized for this award. I truly believe that the working model of local stakeholder participation in the management of our small craft harbour is one of the most progressive programs promoted by government today. For me, it has engendered improvements for the infrastructure on Quadra Island that our local marine industries are dependent upon,” said Mr. Griswold. “I, as a commercial fisherman who participates in several fisheries, realized that the opportunity granted to us certainly needed to be grasped in order to optimize our local marine related businesses. The work has not always been easy. However, the frustrations and hiccups have been made better by a committed Quadra Island Harbour Authority board of directors and a very positive working relationship with the staff at Small Craft Harbours."
Learn more about the important work of Canada’s volunteer Harbour Authorities!
http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/media/infocus-alaune/2013/sch-ppb-eng.htm
About Harbour Authorities
http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/sch-ppb/aboutha-aproposap-eng.htm
Photo caption: Minister Gail Shea presents the 2013 Small Craft Harbours Prix d'Excellence to Mr. Michael Griswold today in Vancouver, British Columbia. Penny Dowler (right) was thanked for her ongoing support to her husband.
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Frank Stanek
Media Relations
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
613-990-7537
Sophie Doucet
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
613-992-3474
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