| The recent announcement that Henry Morgentaler was to be
honoured with the Order of Canada allows us the opportunity to
discuss this little understood award. The Order of Canada was
begun in 1967. Its motto is desiderantes meliorem
patriam which translates to "those who desire a better
country."
According to the web site of the Governor General, "any person or
group is welcome to nominate a deserving individual as candidate for
appointment to the Order of Canada. Nominations should be
accompanied by biographical notes detailing the career and
achievements of the nominee."
Nominations goes to an independent advisory council, chaired by
the Chief Justice of Canada whose make-up reflects the diversity and
excellence in Canadian society. The council then makes their
recommendation to the Governor General. There are 165 members
of the Order at any one time. The separate into levels as
listed below:
| Companion
Recognizes
a lifetime of outstanding achievement and merit of the
highest degree, especially in service to Canada or to
humanity at large |
 |
| Officer
Recognizes a lifetime of achievement and merit of a
high degree, especially in service to Canada or to
humanity at large |
 |
| Member
Recognizes a
lifetime of distinguished service in or to a particular
community, group or field of activity
|
 |
From the GGs web site: "All Canadians are eligible for the Order
of Canada, with the exception of federal and provincial politicians
and judges while in office. There are no posthumous appointments.
Officers and Members may be elevated within the Order in recognition
of further achievement, based on continued exceptional or
extraordinary service to Canada. Usually, promotions are considered
five years after the first appointment.
"The Order’s constitution permits non-Canadians to be considered
for honorary appointments. They may be considered for outstanding
achievement that reflects honour on Canada and/or lifetime
contributions to humanity at large."
When you listen to the rhetoric over the announcement of the Order
of Canada honour given to Montrealer and Canadian Henry Morgentaler,
bear in mind the actual honour and make up your own mind if he
deserves it.
08/09/2008 |
