More than 370 combined years of dedication to the safety of British Columbia’s communities have earned 17 provincial corrections staff national recognition.

Corrections Exemplary Service Medals, which recognize two decades or more of exceptionally commendable service, represent the most prestigious national decoration for professionals in the sector, including correctional centre and probation office staff. Janet Austin, B.C.’s lieutenant governor, presented the awards at a ceremony at Government House.

“These skilled and compassionate professionals really are unsung heroes of public safety,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “Helping clients to gain insights into their offending behaviours, to build life and career skills, and to get the supports they need to live crime-free in the community, are just some of the ways these staff foster profound, personal changes that make B.C.’s streets safer for all of us.”

The Corrections Exemplary Service Medal marks 20 years; the Corrections Exemplary Service First Bar, 30 years. This year, 14 B.C. Corrections staff received the medal and three received the first bar. Recipient details are at: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/download/DDCF53CCB55245BEB9D45ABE3A165FFC

For 35 years, the governor general of Canada, via B.C.’s lieutenant governor, has awarded the medals and bars to deserving corrections staff upon recommendation from B.C. Corrections.