(Coldwater) – Simcoe North MPP Garfield Dunlop was recognized today by the Police Association of Ontario (PAO) for his "continued commitment to law enforcement". The award was presented to Dunlop by PAO Administrator Bruce Miller.

The PAO is the official voice of Ontario?s front-line police personnel. It represents some 13,000 civilian and police members of Ontario's 65 municipal police forces.

"Mr. Dunlop?s tireless efforts to support front-line policing deserve to be acknowledged," said Miller. "He has taken a leadership role in introducing legislation to strengthen policing and has remained solidly committed to 'law and order' and safer communities."

Since his election in 1999, Dunlop has already introduced two Private Member's Bills that support police officers in their important work. Bill 105 – the Health Protection and Promotion Amendment Act, 2001 – will permit mandatory blood testing of individuals who may have infected an emergency worker, victim of crime, or Good Samaritan. The bill was given Royal Assent on December 14, 2001. It is currently with the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care which is considering recommendations from expert committees of the Ontario Medical Association.

Bill 131 – the Highway Traffic Amendment Act (Ignition Interlock Device), 2000 – will provide for the implementation of an ignition interlock program for persons who violate laws related to drinking and driving. This legislation was proclaimed on December 23, 2001.

"I am honoured to receive this prestigious award," said Dunlop. "I will continue to promote health and safety measures for victims of crime and for the people who serve Ontarians every day on the front lines."

The PAO award has previously been presented to former Premier Mike Harris, London-Fanshawe MPP Frank Mazzilli and Chair of Management Board David Tsubouchi, who received the award when he served as the province?s Solicitor General. Minister Tsubouchi was in attendance for Mr. Dunlop?s award presentation ceremony.