NLIS 3
January 31, 2002
(Health and Community Services)

 

Health and Community Services honoured by Lung Association

The Department of Health and Community Services has received a Clean Air Award from the Newfoundland and Labrador Lung Association. The decision was made by the association�s Honours and Awards Committee in recognition of the department�s recent decision to implement a scent-free workplace.

"I am very pleased the Department of Health and Community Services has been recognized by the Lung Association," said Minister Julie Bettney. "Our staff has been very committed to putting this policy in place and by working together we hope to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all our employees."

The Newfoundland and Labrador Lung Association has a very comprehensive volunteer recognition program that includes a Clean Air Award which is given to an individual, business or government partner who contributes to indoor air quality programs.

"It is important that every segment of society becomes aware of how indoor air quality impacts the quality of life for those affected by asthma and allergies � approximately 20 per cent of the population of this province," said Peggy Johnson, executive director with the Lung Association. "This year we have decided to publicly recognize the Department of Health and Community Services for its continuous efforts and commitment to clean air."

The Department of Health and Community Services has partnered with the Lung Association in their efforts to improve air quality since 1997.

"During this time the department has provided an annual $5,000 contribution to financially help with their efforts," said Minister Bettney. "Our recent commitment to improving air quality by implementing a scent-free policy in the workplace is a clear indication of the value we place on the Lung Association�s programs and its work to improve air quality and respiratory health."

In Newfoundland and Labrador approximately 32 per cent of all households surveyed, or one in four homes, had a resident with a breathing disorder. Their attacks can be triggered by tobacco smoke, strong odours, perfumes, pets, weather, exercise or allergens.

Respiratory disease is also the third leading cause of death in men and in women in Newfoundland and Canada. In 1992, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) accounted for 152 deaths in this province and 2,500 hospitalizations.

The Canadian Lung Association, formed in 1900, is one of Canada�s oldest volunteer-based, not-for-profit organizations. The Newfoundland and Labrador Lung Association was established in 1944 to control the spread of tuberculosis. Today its mandate is to prevent and control all forms of lung disease and to protect the air.

The Clean Air Award was presented by His Honour, The Lieutenant Governor, Dr. A. M. House, patron of the Lung Association, at a special ceremony held yesterday at Government House.

The minister would also like to congratulate yesterday�s other award winners: Norval Blair, Margaret Butler, Horace Lane, the Labrador West Peggy Lewis Memorial Walk Committee, Boehringer Ingleheim Pharmaceuticals and the VOCM Cares Foundation which received the President�s Vote of Thanks; Robert Langdon who received the Lifetime Achievement Award; The Breath of Life Clovelly Golf Committee which received the Patrons� Award and Dr. Khalid Aziz who received the Founder�s Award.

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-1377.

2002 01 31                        11:30 a.m.


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