PRINCE EDWARD AWARDED SASKATCHEWAN ORDER OF MERIT

Today, Lieutenant Governor Lynda Haverstock announced that Prince Edward, The Earl of Wessex, has been named an honourary member of the Saskatchewan Order of Merit.

The Saskatchewan Order of Merit is the province's highest honour. It recognizes individuals whose outstanding achievements have contributed significantly to the well-being of the province and its residents.

"I am delighted that His Royal Highness has accepted this honour," the Lieutenant Governor said. "The Earl of Wessex has made significant contributions to young people through the Duke of Edinburgh Award, and he is also a strong supporter of the arts. The Earl has visited Saskatchewan on three occasions and has shown a genuine interest in our province and its people."

The Earl of Wessex was nominated for the Order by the Saskatchewan Dragoons, an army reserve unit in Moose Jaw of which he became colonel-in-chief in 2003, and by the Globe Theatre of Regina, of which he has been royal patron since 1992.

Honourary membership in the Order of Merit may be conferred on distinguished individuals from outside Saskatchewan and Canada on the recommendation of the Saskatchewan Honours Advisory Council.

Since its inception in 1985, 122 citizens have received the Saskatchewan Order of Merit. In 2001, The Prince of Wales was made the first honourary member.

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For More Information, Contact:

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