Philip McLeod, editor-in-chief, accepts the 1997 Michener Citation of Merit from Chief Justice Antonio Lamer on behalf of the London Free Press.
The southwestern Ontario newspaper was honoured for a year-long investigation into the affairs of London Hydro that ended with a public panel of inquiry which found proof of the allegations first uncovered by the daily – derelict governance, incompetent management, and corruption among senior staff.
The award was presented during a ceremony held at Rideau Hall, April 28, 1998.
The distinction between the Michener and other media awards is primarily the emphasis on the degree of arms-length public benefit that is generated. Journalistic excellence alone is not enough. Other criteria include the resources available to the news organizations, an effort to level the playing field for small, medium and large applicants.