PUBLIC SERVANTS HONOURED

Public servants were honoured today for their work in helping to make a better Saskatchewan. Premier Lorne Calvert announced the names of the recipients of the Premier's Award for Excellence in the Public Service in the Legislative Building.

"These individuals represent the excellence and dedication that exists in the public service," Calvert said. "As we recognize their work, we also recognize the dedication of all our employees who offer their very best in providing services and programs for the people of Saskatchewan."

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. This year, 21 nominations were received from ten departments or agencies.

This year's recipients are:

Individuals:

- Dennis Sherratt, Saskatchewan Environment, in the category of Leadership
- Ernestine Starr, Saskatchewan Community Resources & Employment, in the category of Quality Service

Teams:

- Aboriginal Employment Development Program, Saskatchewan Government Relations and Aboriginal Affairs, in the category of Innovation
- Mineral Exploration Incentive Program, Saskatchewan Industry and Resources, in the category of Leadership
- Action Swift Current, Saskatchewan Industry and Resources, in the category of Leadership
- Regina Auto Theft Strategy, Saskatchewan Justice and Corrections and Public Safety, in the category of Innovation

An independent selection panel chaired by Brian Johnson, CEO of Crown Life, reviewed the nominations and made the decision on who would receive the award.

The awards will be presented to recipients during national Public Service Week in June, a week designated for the recognition of the many ways that public servants contribute to the quality of life for Canadians.

For more information about the Premier's Award for Excellence in the Public Service call toll-free 1-877-427-5505 or go to the web site at www.graa.gov.sk.ca/Protocol.

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For More Information, Contact:

Maureen Boyle Government Relations and Aboriginal Affairs Regina Phone: (306) 787-5959