May 25, 2008

Today in Stony Plain, Minister Ambrose co-hosted a barbeque to show support for the brave men and women of our protective services who work selflessly to keep our citizens and communities safe. The protective services she honoured included the Canadian Forces, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Community Peace Officers, Search and Rescue, Victims Services, fire brigades, ambulance and emergency personnel.

The event was co-hosted by the City of Spruce Grove, the Town of Stony Plain and the County of Parkland and provided an opportunity for their citizens to show their appreciation for the vital role that members of the protective services play in their communities.

“The men and women of our protective services have dedicated themselves to ensuring Canada’s families are safe, our communities are strong and our country is secure,” said Minister Ambrose. “I am so glad that the people of Edmonton-Spruce Grove were here today to recognize some of the unsung heroes of our communities and thank them for their services and contributions.”

“The City of Spruce Grove values the contribution of each individual who helps keep our community safe,” said Mayor Stuart Houston of the City of Spruce Grove. “The partnerships that we have formed ensure that our residents have access to resources that make them feel protected and secure. This wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated professionals that serve our residents.”

"On behalf of Town Council and the residents of Stony Plain, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the protective services groups for their commitment and responsibility to our community,” said Mayor Ken Lemke of the Town of Stony Plain. “We entrust our lives and property to these courageous individuals to ensure the safety and protection of our citizens and each deserves to be honoured for their dedication. I would also like to extend my gratitude towards my regional partners, Parkland County and Spruce Grove and the Honourable Rona Ambrose, in working collaboratively to organize this important event for the men and women that serve us so well!"

“This event sends a powerful message about the importance of protective services in the community and the people who dedicate their lives to helping others,” said Mayor Rob Wiedeman of Parkland County. “It takes an exceptional person to make that type of commitment and we in Parkland County are truly fortunate to have so many of these exceptional people in our community.”

Minister Ambrose concluded: “We are so lucky in Canada to have such committed and principled men and women. Every day, they bring to their jobs qualities that are the essence of what makes Canada a great nation – strong values, commitment, courage and determination. Our success depends on the critical role they play.”