Whether facing a global pandemic or confronting severe weather events, emergency response experts and volunteers nationwide save and protect people in Canada, safeguard property and the environment, and strengthen community resilience. Their remarkable contributions preparing for and confronting severe weather events and other emergencies earn our deepest appreciation and recognition.
Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, President of the King's Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, along with Sherry Romanado, Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the King's Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness, presented the Emergency Management Exemplary Service Award (EMESA) to recipients from across the country. This prestigious recognition for exceptional service and achievement in emergency management is a partnership between federal, provincial, and territorial governments and spans five categories: Resilient Communities, Search and Rescue Volunteers, Search and Rescue Employees, Youth, and Outstanding Contribution to Emergency Management.
This year, the accomplishments of 129 outstanding recipients representing individuals and groups were recognized for excellence in their respective fields. These include leaders from Indigenous communities, non-governmental organizations, youth, academia, and professional associations, as well as emergency management professionals and volunteers at all levels of government. This is the first year that recipients from all jurisdictions across Canada were awarded the prestigious award.
Recognized contributions included leading important rescue operations and emergency responses, implementing public safety initiatives to enhance community readiness, and innovative training programs to equip first responders and emergency management professionals with essential skills.
