Commentary by His Excellency the Right Honourable Roland Michener, on the occasion of the presentation
of the first Michener Award for Journalism.
Rideau
Hall, November 8, 1971

I am pleased to welcome so many members from the Press Federation of
Canada. Your Federation is representative of our three main forms of
media, including daily and weekly newspapers, radio, and television.
The meaning of the word “press” in French is all encompassing in its
definition of our media. I hope that you can find a similar word in
English to replace “mass media of communication” a phrase that is
impossible to translate.
I am delighted that you have taken the initiative of launching this
journalism award. I know that every minute of your time is valuable,
and I am therefore all the more grateful that you have found time to
join us this morning for the award presentation.
As for the journalists who are here on official duty, they are also
welcome; however, I cannot assure them that their coverage of
today’s event will make them eligible for next year’s Michener
Awards!
Please join me for a reception to honour the recipients of the
Award.
His Excellency the Right Honourable Roland Michener
Governor General of Canada
November 8, 1971