Released on August 21, 2013
Dr. Gordon Barnhart has been appointed to undertake a review of the naming policy for government-owned buildings and the naming of geographic features pursuant to The Heritage Property Act on behalf of the Ministries of Central Services and Parks, Culture and Sport.
The intent of the review is to modernize the way government-owned buildings and geographic features are named to ensure it’s done in a consistent, transparent and fair manner.
“I’m pleased that Dr. Barnhart has been appointed to review the process related to naming buildings and geographic features,” Central Services Minister Nancy Heppner said. “His expertise and knowledge about Saskatchewan history and government will certainly help to strengthen and modernize the naming process.”
The review will examine and clarify the nomination process, the committee structure/functions, and the language in both the policy and legislation. Dr. Barnhart will provide his report to the Ministries of Central Services and Parks, Culture and Sport later this year.
“The naming of buildings, landmarks and other geographic features serves as a way to help tell our provincial story,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Kevin Doherty said. “Having a provincial landmark named after someone is a great way to honour their contributions to the province and our history. It is important that the naming processes be reviewed to ensure they serve the needs of Saskatchewan people.”
A noted historian and expert on governance, Dr. Barnhart served as Saskatchewan’s 20th Lieutenant Governor from 2006 to 2012. He has also served as Clerk of the Canadian Senate, Clerk of the Saskatchewan Legislature and as University Secretary at the University of Saskatchewan. Having written many books about various aspects of Saskatchewan's history and its legislature, Dr. Barnhart is well qualified to undertake this review.
“I am excited and honoured to be able to help shape this important process,” Dr. Barnhart said. “The naming of buildings and geographic features not only pays tribute to those who have made significant contributions to our province, it is a way of documenting our heritage for future generations. I want to ensure the recommendations that are made reflect that importance.”
The report is expected to be provided by December 31, 2013.
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For more information, contact:
Megan Wolfinger
Central Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5069
Email: megan.wolfinger@gov.sk.ca