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Military Ombudsman Recognizes Excellence in the Defence Community
Ottawa, May 27, 2009 – Mr. Pierre Daigle, Ombudsman for the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Forces presented commendations to five outstanding members of the Defence community today during a special awards ceremony at the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess in Ottawa. The Ombudsman’s commendations, awarded annually, recognize exemplary dedication to the values of integrity, honesty, fairness and openness.
“I am very pleased to recognize these five individuals who have
distinguished themselves through their commitment to fairness,
compassion, and integrity,
” said Mr. Daigle. “Their contributions have
helped improve the well-being of those in Canada’s Defence community and
will remain an extraordinary example for all to follow.
”
The eighth annual commendations ceremony included the presentation of the Ombudsman’s Special Recognition Award, which recognizes individuals who have gone well above and beyond the normal requirements of their job in bringing about positive and lasting change to the Defence community.
Mr. Daigle also presented the Liz Hoffman Memorial Commendation for Complaint Resolution. This award serves to acknowledge the contribution of National Defence employees and Canadian Forces members who have demonstrated outstanding problem-solving and complaint resolution skills in working cooperatively with the Ombudsman’s Office.
This year’s recipients of the Ombudsman’s Special Recognition Award are:
- Lieutenant-Colonel Helen Adam
Lieutenant-Colonel Helen Adam has dedicated her entire career to looking out for the welfare of Canadian Forces members. As an officer with the Logistics (Human Resources) branch, Lieutenant-Colonel Adam’s contribution to the Canadian Forces grievance system, her genuine motivation to resolve grievances informally, her advice, guidance and experience on complex issues, and her drive to study and raise awareness on systemic issues affecting the workplace have contributed immeasurably to the well-being of the Defence community. This past year, as Director of Grievances (Analysis and Resolutions), Lieutenant-Colonel Adam was instrumental in raising awareness of release guidelines for members with post-traumatic stress disorder. She was also invaluable in calling attention to inequities in the current policy for acting rank and pay. - Mrs. Harriet McCready
In her six years with the Mental Health Department of the Canadian Forces Health Services Centre in Halifax, Mrs. Harriet McCready has been the driving force behind changes in the Canadian Forces’ delivery of mental health care in Atlantic Canada. Since joining the unit, her tireless work has had a profound impact on the daily lives of Canadian Forces members who struggle with mental health-related issues. Mrs. McCready is blessed with extraordinary interpersonal skills which have allowed her to facilitate the resolution of very complicated issues while providing a refreshing alternative to more intensive formal dispute resolution processes. She has created the only integrated addiction services program in the Canadian Forces and it is a model for others to follow.
The Liz Hoffman Memorial Commendation for Complaint Resolution was awarded to:
- Major Jacques Bouchard
As the Official Languages Champion of Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Borden, Major Jacques Bouchard has demonstrated a willingness and ability to resolve problems informally and quickly prior to, and throughout, the investigations conducted by the Ombudsman’s Office. Major Bouchard has made a tremendous effort over many years to identify and resolve issues of unfairness with regard to official languages, particularly for those with little time and experience in the Canadian Forces. In his role as Deputy Administrative Officer and later as the Official Languages Champion of CFB Borden, Major Bouchard was an instrumental player in contributing to substantial and long-lasting improvements in the welfare of base members and civilian employees. Always open to new ideas, Major Bouchard has been resourceful and innovative in spearheading many novel initiatives. He is a dedicated individual whose perseverance in fighting for a fundamental right has set an excellent example for all in the Defence community. - Dr. Robin Lamoureux and Major William Patton (Group Nomination)
Through open communication with the Ombudsman’s Office and timely assistance, Dr. Robin Lamoureux and Major William Patton have demonstrated extreme vigilance, absolute professionalism and sincere dedication to the well-being of Canadian Forces members and their families. Dr. Lamoureux and Major Patton have proven to be passionate, cooperative and resourceful members of the medical team at the Edmonton Garrison. Their strong team ethic and oversight practices have greatly contributed to enhancing the well-being of the Defence community. In particular, Dr. Lamoureux and Major Patton’s involvement in the medical care and administration of several Canadian Forces members has revealed a sincere desire to help resolve the concerns of those who feel they have been treated unfairly.
Recipients of the Liz Hoffman Memorial Commendation for Complaint Resolution are nominated by investigators within the Ombudsman’s Office. Nominations for the Special Recognition Award are submitted by peers and colleagues and reviewed by the Ombudsman and the Ombudsman Advisory Committee.
For additional information:
Althea Basudde
Communications Officer
Office of the Ombudsman
Department of National Defence and the Canadian Forces
Tel.: 613-995-8698
