Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick and the Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, presented Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medals to Richard Bullock, Reg Ens and Nico Human at the Pacific Agriculture Show Gala last night, in recognition of their significant achievements and distinguished service to their fellow citizens.

Richard Bullock was acknowledged for his role as the chair of the Agricultural Land Commission and his ongoing efforts to preserve farmland in British Columbia, as well as his contributions to B.C.'s tree fruit sector as the former president of both the B.C. Fruit Growers Association and Sun-Rype Products.

Reg Ens, executive director of the BC Agriculture Council, was recognized for his contributions and representation of farmers and ranchers throughout British Columbia. Reg has been a strong and supportive leader of agriculture both in his current position with the council and with his previous involvement in small - and medium - sized businesses and industry associations throughout the province.

A medal was also presented to B.C. Food Processors Association CEO Nico Human in recognition of his commitment to building B.C.'s value-added food sector and previous contributions in supporting awareness and promotion of agriculture's benefits in B.C.

Medal recipients have made a significant contribution to a province, territory, region or community within Canada, or an achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada. Like Her Majesty, those recognized have dedicated themselves to service their fellow citizens, communities and country.

Quotes:

Norm Letnick, Minister of Agriculture -

"British Columbians are truly blessed to have such a varied supply of local, high-quality foods available and agricultural leaders like Nico, Reg and Richard working so hard to promote them. I'd like to congratulate each of them on their medal and thank them for representing our province and the 61,000 British Columbians working in the agrifoods sector."

Nico Human, CEO of B.C. Food Processors Association -

"It is a huge honour to be recognised this way. There are so many that really are more deserving. All I can say is thank you. To grow an industry is a massive team effort, and I tip my hat to the tireless volunteers, the board members, the industry and government partners and others who share the vision and the reality of healthy B.C. food from our own B.C. farmers."

Reg Ens, executive director of the BC Agriculture Council -

"This award has come as a complete surprise, but I am deeply honoured to be one of 760 Diamond Jubilee Medal recipients in B.C. this year. As executive director of the BC Agriculture Council, I share this award amongst our members, directors and staff, all of whom work so very hard to represent B.C. farmers and ranchers."

Richard Bullock, chair of the Agricultural Land Commission -

"It was an unexpected thrill and honour to receive the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal. I have been very fortunate to have worked with many British Columbians who share my passion about the importance of preserving B.C.'s farmland, and this medal represents our collective effort and commitment to do so."

Quick Facts:

• This commemorative medal was created to mark the 2012 celebrations of the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty's accession to the throne.
• The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal is a tangible way to honour Her Majesty for her service to this country.
• During the year of celebrations, 60,000 deserving Canadians from across the country will be recognized.
• The government of B.C. is presenting approximately 760 medals.
• All MLAs and ministers have been involved in awarding the medals, ensuring they reach as many deserving people in our province as possible.

Learn More:

To learn more about the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, visit: http://www.gg.ca/document.aspx?id=14019&lan=eng

Media Contact:

Dave Townsend
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Agriculture
250 356-7098