The Council of the Federation Literacy Award was created by Canada’s premiers to recognize the importance of literacy and the great contributions being made by individuals and organizations to literacy in each province.

“Literacy skills are important to individuals because they are the basic tools we use to develop intellectual and social skills and participate fully in society,” said Premier Binns. “High provincial literacy levels are equally important because they reflect our ability to develop an educated workforce, a strong economy and a culture of lifelong learning.”

This year in Prince Edward Island, the award will be presented to an adult Islander who has made outstanding progress in his or her own learning and who has helped others with their learning. In future years, educators, volunteers and groups will also be recognized for their contributions to literacy in the province.

The first award winners from each province and territory will be announced in August at the Council of the Federation meeting. Following this, Premier Binns will present the award to the Prince Edward Island recipient at a ceremony in P.E.I.

“Adult Islanders who return to learning are role models for their children, friends and employers. By their example, they inspire others to become lifelong learners. It is very appropriate that their commitment and contribution be recognized,” said Premier Binns.

To nominate an adult learner for the award in Prince Edward Island, a nomination package must be submitted by June 17, 2005. The package includes a nomination form, a personal story written by the nominee and two letters of support. One letter could be from a person who helped the nominee with his or her learning. The other letter could be from a friend, fellow student or employer who the nominee helped or inspired to learn.

For more information on how to nominate a person, visit www.gov.pe.ca/go/literacy or contact the Department of Education at 902 368 6286.

The Council of the Federation was established in 2003 by the 13 premiers to acknowledge the leadership role that provinces and territories play in revitalizing the Canadian federation.