The Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors(CIPHI) Recognizes the Contributions of the Grey Bruce Health Unit Staff

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 9, 2003

Public health inspectors across the county recognized the work and dedication of Grey Bruce Health Unit staff at the 69^th Annual Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors(CIPHI) National Educational Conference in Edmonton, Alberta on June 25, 2003.

The Alex Cross Award was presented posthumously to Dave Patterson.  The award is presented annually to a CIPHI member who is recognized to have made a significant contribution to the organization with special distinction.  Dave Patterson was recognized for his dedication to the field of public health inspection over his career and specifically his involvement with the waterbourne outbreak investigation in Walkerton.

The Alexander Officer Award was presented to the staff of the Grey Bruce Health Unit.  This national award recognizes outstanding and meritorious achievements by an organization or agencies in the area of public health. The staff of the Grey Bruce Health Unit was recognized for their dedication, professionalism and skill in responding to the Walkerton outbreak.

The awards were represented on September 29, 2003 at the 64^th CIPHI Annual Educational Conference in Waterloo, Ontario.

Michael Duncan, President of the Ontario Branch of the CIPHI, said that the presentation of the awards proved emotional for all public health delegates nationwide.  Public Health Inspectors and their families live in the same communities and regions they work.  A public health emergency like Walkerton impacts public health inspectors, their health unit colleagues and their families in personal and emotional ways.

For further information please contact Michael Duncan, President CIPHI (Ontario Branch) Inc.

(705) 783-6056