The Premier’s Crime Prevention Awards were presented today by the Honourable Pat Binns in a ceremony at Government House. The Premier’s awards are presented annually to recognize individuals and groups who have made outstanding contributions to community safety through crime prevention.
“These awards recognize the contributions of individuals and groups to community safety and crime prevention,” said Premier Binns. “Each of the recipients has demonstrated leadership and contributed to community and social development throughout the province.”
Four individuals and one group were honoured with 2004 Premier’s Crime Prevention Awards today.
Grace Blackette has worked tirelessly over many years to provide a safe recreational venue for legitimate users of the Confederation Trail on PEI. Grace has made a major impact on crime prevention with the establishment of “trail watch” and the “trail police” program. Without Grace’s hard work and dedication these programs would not be a reality today.
Michael Doiron’s career as a Youth Worker began in Toronto working primarily with homeless street youth who were involved in prostitution. Although the work was both challenging and rewarding, Michael felt drawn to helping the youth from his home province PEI. Michael is now in his 6th year as a youth counsellor with the Kings Health Region and goes the extra mile in his efforts to help the community’s youth.
Sister Norma Gallant has been working in the area of crime prevention, addressing the root causes of crime in the Evangeline area since 1999. Her priorities focus on respect, interpersonal relations and the well being of vulnerable individuals. Sister Norma is always available to the members of her community whether it be to discuss the challenges they face in everyday life or simply to make sure they have a safe drive home when needed.
La Voix acadienne contributes significantly to community development by addressing important issues affecting the whole community. It has provided articles on the improvement of women’s lives on PEI, family violence, crime prevention and socio-economic condition of women and is committed to the development of the Island and Francophone community. The PEI Acadian and Francophone population are lucky to have this weekly newspaper.
Constable Ken Wakelin is the Community Liaison Officer and the D.A.R.E. (Drug Awareness Resistance Education) Officer for Montague Consolidated. Constable Ken, as the students know him, delivers the D.A.R.E. program to the grade six classes of Montague Consolidated. Constable Ken takes the time to be there for the students when they feel they have no one else to turn to.
“Those honoured today demonstrated their commitment to making the Island a safer and friendlier place for all who live here and all who visit here, and it is my pleasure to recognize their efforts,” said Premier Binns. “By recognizing individuals who make outstanding contributions to crime prevention, we can also encourage others to become involved. Communities and individuals working together can build stronger, safer communities.”