Island paramedics recognized for exemplary service
Prince Edward Island paramedics recognized with the Governor General’s Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal during a ceremony at Government House
The Exemplary Service Medals recognize those in high-risk professions who have dedicated themselves to preserving Canada’s public safety through long and outstanding service. The awards are national in scope and are part of the Canadian honours system. “Medavie Health Services is incredibly proud of the well-deserved recognition these paramedics are receiving today,” said Erik Sande, president of Medavie Health Services. “As part of Island EMS, each of them has dedicated their career to helping Prince Edward Islanders when they need it most. I would like to congratulate all our medal recipients and thank them for the unwavering commitment to care that they demonstrate on a daily basis.”
The medal presentation ceremony held Thursday, Oct. 26, marks the first time in the history of paramedic profession on Prince Edward Island that the Governor General’s Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal has been awarded.
“The paramedic profession has evolved significantly over the past 20 years, with more than 160 licensed paramedics
now providing services across Prince Edward Island,” said Health Minister Robert Henderson. “The contributions of Island paramedics to emergency health services in our province, and to the lives of everyone they care for, are significant and inspiring. On behalf of all Islanders, I thank and congratulate all medal recipients on this well-deserved recognition.”
The Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal was created in 1994, part of a national recognition program for people in high-risk jobs that enhance Canada’s public safety. Police, firefighters, corrections officers, Coast Guard members and peace officers are also eligible for exemplary service medals. Paramedics are nominated by their peers or the public, and recipients must have demonstrated exemplary service for at least 20 years, including 10 years in an emergency medical services position that could put them at risk.