Premier Stelmach recognizes government teams for innovative work

Government of Alberta news release

Nine public service teams were recognized for their business excellence and outstanding client service on various projects including a plan to end homelessness, efforts to improve education for children in care and an online campsite reservation system.


“Through the many different programs and services, the public service is dedicated to doing their best on behalf of Albertans,” said Premier Ed Stelmach who honoured the teams at the 17th annual Premier’s Award of Excellence ceremony on September 9. “The award recipients demonstrate the values of the public service and I commend them for their innovation and drive for continued improvement.”
This year’s award recipients were involved in initiatives that included a plan to end homelessness, a new insurance program for cattle farmers, new strategies for improved education for children and youth in care, the development of an online real-time campsite inventory for 51 provincial campgrounds and the ongoing work of the Office of the Public Guardian.

“The work that these teams are producing is significant,” said Lloyd Snelgrove, Minister Responsible for Corporate Human Resources. “Whether these projects are long-term or short-term, they are making a difference in our province.”

During the program Premier Stelmach was joined by Mayor Pillay-Kinnee of Slave Lake to express appreciation and recognize the Government of Alberta staff who took part in the Slave Lake response and recovery. More than 1300 public service staff assisted in these efforts, after a wildfire went through the Slave Lake community in May of this year. These staff displayed commitment and professionalism in unique circumstances which reflects the hard work Government of Alberta staff undertake every day.

The Premier’s Award of Excellence program was created in 1995 to recognize Alberta Public Service employees and agencies, boards and commissions for superior client service and business excellence practices. To date, 407 teams have been honoured with the prestigious award.

Since 2007, Premier Stelmach has awarded a total of 124 teams. Under his leadership, the Government of Alberta enhanced its partnership with the National Quality Institute through the introduction of a new NQI award category, Canada Awards for Excellence - Projects. In 2010, through this expanded partnership, Gold award recipients were eligible to be recognized nationally with a Certificate of Merit.

To learn more about this year’s award recipients or the Premier’s Award of Excellence program, visit: www.chr.alberta.ca/premier.