Rideau Hall, Wednesday, December 17, 2014

My wife, Sharon, and I thank you for being here for this celebration of excellence in public service.

For more than 50 years, the Vanier Medal has been presented annually to a Canadian who has made outstanding contributions to our country in the field of public administration.

Today, I am pleased to recognize Mr. Lynton “Red” Wilson, whose career began in 1962—the very same year this medal was inaugurated.

I want to highlight some of Mr. Wilson’s notable achievements, but first let me take a moment to underline the fundamental importance of public service.

Forgive me for stating the obvious, but it is worth remembering that public institutions and the people who work in them are essential to the smarter, more caring Canada we seek to build.

In fact, the need to reaffirm the key role of the public sector in society was one takeaway that emerged from a recent international gathering of former public servants, political staff, elected officials and academics in Abu Dhabi.

Participants came from numerous countries, including Canada, and what is clear is that many nations are asking themselves how to adapt and evolve their public services in this time of rapid, far-reaching change.

Some of the questions we are facing include:

• How do we reconcile the growing emphasis on short-term needs with the longer term nature of so many of the challenges and opportunities we face?
• How do we make innovation central in the policy-making process and in the delivery of services?
• How do public services compete with other organizations to attract talent?

There are of course many other significant questions being asked. The salient point is to recognize that innovation is essential, and that a global debate is underway as to the nature and extent of public service in the years to come.

It is important that all Canadians be aware of and participate in this debate because, after all, these are our public services!

Which brings me to this year’s Vanier Medal recipient, Mr. Lynton “Red” Wilson. His career is a shining example of public sector participation and leadership.

An Officer of the Order of Canada, Mr. Wilson is considered a role model for those who aspire to serve this country, whether in the public or private sector, or through philanthropy and volunteerism.

He has worked as a diplomat, a deputy minister and a university chancellor. He has served on numerous high-level advisory committees and boards relating to everything from the public service to competition policy to international trade.

Mr. Wilson has consistently advocated for strong public services, and he has shown steadfast support and appreciation for Canadian history, culture and learning.

He is also a successful and talented businessman, respected for his values and ethics. Despite many professional responsibilities, Mr. Wilson has also been involved in numerous fundraising and volunteer activities over the years. 

I could go on, but you can see why he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada, can’t you?

Sharon and I both often use the expression that “service is love made visible,” and Mr. Wilson’s career truly demonstrates his love for Canada and for a life of service.

His is an example to inspire us all.

Thank you for all that you have done for Canada, and congratulations on this most deserved honour.