MP JOY SMITH APPLAUDS APPOINTMENT OF GAIL ASPER TO ORDER OF CANADA

Winnipeg, MB: Joy Smith, Member of Parliament for Kildonan-St. Paul, was pleased to hear that Gail Asper had been appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada for her work as an arts advocate, fundraiser and business and community leader.

“I am delighted to hear that Gail Asper has been appointed to the Order of Canada,” said MP Joy Smith. “This auspicious award recognizes the dedication and commitment Gail has shown to her community and nation. It is due to her continued work, that Winnipeg will be the home to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.”

Gail Asper is known for her philanthropy and has worked tirelessly to have a national museum for human rights built in Winnipeg. MP Joy Smith has worked with Ms. Asper to secure federal funding for the museum. On March 13, 2008, a government bill establishing funding for the museum received Royal Assent.

The Order of Canada is the centrepiece of Canada’s honours system and recognizes a lifetime of outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. The Order recognizes people in all sectors of Canadian society.