10 new appointees join the Order of New Brunswick

Former premier Bernard Lord,who introduced the Order of New Brunswick, has become a recipient.

Lord was among 10 individuals appointed to the order Tuesday during a ceremony at Fredericton's Old Government House.

"When I created the Order of New Brunswick a few years ago, I didn't expect to receive it— at least not so soon," Lord said.

The order was established in 2000 to recognize those who have made an outstanding contribution to the social, cultural or economic well-being of the province.

Also honoured were singer Susan Butler, visual artist Audrey Cote St-Onge, businessman Angelo Dicarlo, seatbelt advocate Dr. Stephen Hart, vascular surgeon Dr. Mohan Iype, figure skating official Linda LeBlanc, teacher and actor and former senator Viola Leger, music teacher Joseph Allan MacDonald, and poverty activist George Piers.

"We are very fortunate to have such accomplished and gifted individuals who have made, and continue to make, outstanding contributions, in so many different fields, to our province and to our country. I congratulate them on behalf of all New Brunswickers," said Premier Shawn Graham.

The award is the highest distinction in the province. Tuesday's appointments bring the membership of the order to 58.