Media

Bernard Ostry promoted to Companion of the Order of Canada at Rideau Hall

April 5, 2006

OTTAWA – Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, today presented the insignia of Companion of the Order of Canada to Mr. Bernard Ostry during a private ceremony held at Rideau Hall. The appointment has been in effect since November 17, 2005.

The following text is the official citation for Mr. Ostry:

Bernard Ostry, C.C.
Toronto, Ontario
Companion of the Order of Canada

One of our pre-eminent intellectuals, Bernard Ostry has devoted his life to the development of social and cultural public policy in Canada. Former chair and chief executive officer of TVOntario, this retired public servant has had an important and lasting impact on our society by bringing his unique and creative vision to bear on topics such as broadcasting, multiculturalism, and distance learning. He is a determined leader who has shared his wise counsel, advocacy and experience with cultural, artistic and educational institutions such as the National Ballet School, the International Institute of Communications, and the Royal Ontario Museum.

This is a promotion within the Order.

A backgrounder on the Order of Canada is attached.

Media information

Lucie Brosseau
Rideau Hall Press Office
(613) 998-0287
www.gg.ca

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Order of Canada Backgrounder

· The Order of Canada was established in 1967 to recognize outstanding achievement and service in various fields of human endeavour. It is our country's highest honour for lifetime achievement.

· Three different levels of membership—Companion, Officer and Member—honour people whose accomplishments vary in degree and scope.

· Appointments are made on the recommendation of an advisory council, chaired by the Chief Justice of Canada. The Governor General is the Chancellor and Principal Companion of the Order.

· Membership in the Advisory Council reflects the diversity and excellence in Canadian society. Certain Advisory Council members are appointed by virtue of their office; others are appointed to the Council for a fixed term to achieve a balanced representation of the various regions of the country.

· The current members of the Council are:

· The Right Honourable Beverley McLachlin, P.C., Chief Justice of Canada (Chair)

· The Honourable Thomas R. Berger, O.C.

· Ms. Patricia A. Demers, President, Royal Society of Canada

· Mr. Richard Francis Haskayne, O.C.

· Mr. Tom Jackson, O.C.

· Ms. Karen Kain, C.C., Chair, Canada Council for the Arts

· Ms. Judith A. LaRocque, C.V.O., Deputy Minister, Canadian Heritage

· Dr. Daurene E. Lewis, O.C.

· Mr.Kevin Lynch, Clerk of the Privy Council and Secretary to the Cabinet

· Mr. L. Jacques Ménard, O.C.

· Ms. Bonnie M. Patterson, Chair of the Board, Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada

· Any group or individual is welcome to nominate deserving individuals as candidates for appointment.

· Any Canadian may be nominated for the Order of Canada. The only exceptions are federal and provincial politicians and judges, who may not be appointed while holding office.

· A person who is not a Canadian citizen may be considered for honorary appointments.