There is no denying that the last decade was a difficult one. Canadians do not always appreciate the countless ways in which Public Service employees touch their lives every single day. This is simply not fair. And sometimes, even Parliamentarians do this. After all, we could not do our jobs without you.
Awards are also important.
They are a tangible reflection of our respect and gratitude. The people and virtues we choose to recognize and celebrate say a great deal about who we are and what we stand for as individuals and as an institution. This seems like a fitting opportunity to announce that we will be creating a new corporate Diversity and Employment Equity Awards Program. It will recognize and celebrate successes in that area. This awards program is being established in response to the Action Plan of the Task Force on the Participation of Visible Minorities in the federal Public Service.