Renowned as a scholar, professor, social worker and welfare administrator, he has been a leader in the field of social policy and planning. During his twenty years' employment with National Health and Welfare, he became known as the "Chief Architect" of the Canada Assistance Plan. He co-authored an important eight-year study on senior nursing positions in fifty-three countries, resulting in a work much acclaimed by scholars and international health and nursing organizations.
Officer of the Order of Canada
Awarded on: 2004-05-13
Invested on: 2004-12-10
Richard Splane has contributed significantly to Canada's standing as a leader in health and social policy development. Widely respected as an architect of progressive policies, this retired senior public servant and university professor has shared his vast knowledge as an author and advisor. His immense contribution has been recognized with awards from the Lillian Carter Centre for International Nursing and the International Council on Social Welfare. In addition, his ongoing work in protecting existing social welfare networks attests to his enduring commitment to Canada's public policy initiatives. This is a promotion within the Order.