David Vardy awarded public service�s top national honour

David Allan Vardy, chairperson and chief executive officer of the Public Utilities Commission, received the Gold Medal Award from the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada in a ceremony yesterday at the Hotel Newfoundland.

Premier Brian Tobin complimented Vardy�s long service to the province. "To have Mr. Vardy receive such a prestigious award on a national level is a testament to his pursuit of professional and personal excellence. His achievements at the highest levels of the public service are exemplary."

In making the presentation, Institute President Steve Hindle said he was pleased to recognize Vardy�s significant contributions to economic development, resource management, labour relations and education. "I am honoured to present the Gold Medal to an outstanding public service professional who has greatly contributed to the quality of life of Canadians. He is a shining example that, without the public service, Canada could not be one of the best countries in which to live."

In addition to his current role with the Public Utilities Commission, Vardy has served the province as a deputy minister, Clerk of the Executive Council and Secretary to Cabinet and president and chief executive officer of the Newfoundland and Labrador Institute of Fisheries and Marine Technology. His community involvement includes significant work as an advocate for the Autism Society and contributions to the Rotary Club, where he was recognized with the Paul Harris Fellow award.

"This award is a fine example of excellence of this province�s public service to be showcased throughout Canada," said Premier Tobin. "Newfoundland and Labrador�s public service is of the highest calibre in the country."

The Professional Institute established the Gold Medal Award program in 1937 to recognize public employees whose outstanding work has improved and enhanced public well-being. The program also promotes greater awareness of the role and value of professional public service employees in Canada and globally. Nominees must be, or have been, employees of federal, provincial, territorial, municipal, regional or aboriginal government services.

The Professional Institute is a national union representing 36,000 professionals and scientists. Vardy was selected by an independent panel which examined nominations from a nation-wide group of 23 other public service nominees representing both provincial and federal levels of government.

Media contacts:

 Heidi Bonnell, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960

Laureen Allan, The Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada, (613) 299-4368 (cell).

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