PREMIER HONOURS EXCELLENCE IN THE PUBLIC SERVICE

Premier Lorne Calvert today announced the first recipients of The Premier's Award for Excellence in the Public Service during a ceremony at the legislative building.

"I am proud to bestow The Premier's Award on these most worthy individuals and teams for their outstanding contributions to the people of Saskatchewan," Premier Calvert said. "They exemplify what government values most in its employees – quality service, innovation, and leadership."

"Choosing the six recipients for the award was a difficult task," Selection Committee Chair Brian Johnson said. "All those nominated have demonstrated excellence in the public service."

Individual employees or teams from government departments, most Treasury Board Crown Corporations, boards, commissions and agencies were eligible for nomination in three categories: innovation, quality service, and leadership. Nominations for the award came from the public service, stakeholder organizations, clients, and the public. A total of 41 nominations were received for employees in 16 different departments and agencies.

This year's recipients are: Don Fairbairn from the Intergovernmental Relations Branch of Saskatchewan Community Resources and Employment, Terry Lang from Saskatchewan Corrections and Public Safety, Don Stevenson from the Saskatchewan Public Service Commission, the five member Cree Court Party from Saskatchewan Justice, four members of the Taxation and Intergovernmental Affairs branch from Saskatchewan Finance, and 32 members of the Information Management Branch from Saskatchewan Environment.

An independent selection panel reviewed the nominations. Chaired by Brian Johnson, CEO of Crown Life in Regina, the panel includes Sid Bildfell, CEO of Credit Union Central; Deanne Elias-Henry, Executive Director of the Regina YWCA; Barb Maclean, Acting Director of Senior Management Services in Saskatchewan Executive Council; Lynne Pearson, Dean of Commerce at the University of Saskatchewan; and Reverend Ray Purdie, Public Service Commissioner.

This was the first year for the Premier's Award. The announcement of the award recipients coincides with national Public Service Week, held June 15th - 21st, to recognize the many ways that public servants at all levels contribute to the quality of life for all Canadians. The awards will be presented by the Premier during a ceremony in September 2003.

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For More Information, Contact:

Michael Jackson Office of Protocol and Honours Regina Phone: (306)787-3109