The Newfoundland and Labrador Employers' Council presented the Employer of Distinction Award in the Small Employer Category to Exploits Valley Dental Office on September 28, 2005 at a ceremony held at the Delta Hotel in St. John's.

Receiving the honour in the Large Employer Category were Memorial University of Newfoundland and North Atlantic Refining.

The Employer of Distinction Award recognizes employers who go above and beyond the norm when it comes to all elements of their relationships with their employees, including health and safety, compensation and advancement, presence in the community, stakeholder awareness and the overall implementation of human resources best practices.

Richard Alexander, employee advisor with the Newfoundland and Labrador Employers' Council, said "Exploits Valley Dental Office has made an impressive commitment to staff training and development, which is unusual and distinctive for such a small firm."

Mr. Alexander explained that in order for the dental office to be short-listed, they had to meet all the criteria for the distinction category, and participate in an interview process with the Employers' Council, which provided further information for the judges.

Mr. Alexander also noted the dental office was recognized for conducting regular work-place inspections and audits of their facilities and exceeded the minimum requirements for occupational health and safety programming and training.

Commenting on the award, Dr. Musseau said that the Employers' Council is a very valuable resource to employers and he is very appreciative of the services they provide. "We strive to offer a good environment for our employees and to give them opportunities for continuing education, self-improvement and to participate in team activities throughout each year."

"We've provide many training and certification options to our staff should they choose to pursue them, whether in the field of dentistry or personal development. The information and support we receive from the Employers' Council of Newfoundland and Labrador supports our endeavors and provides encouragement that is very helpful in ensuring we meet our objectives. I would highly recommend membership in the Council as a valuable asset to any dental office or business."