Canada

Order of Canada

Recognises outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. Motto Desiderantes meliorem patriam, meaning they desire a better country.¹

Country

Canada

Established

1967¹

Conferred by

The Governor General of Canada, who also decides terminations after review by the Advisory Council^1,2

How announced

Appointments and terminations are published in the Canada Gazette.²

Revocation

Under paragraph 25(c) of the Constitution of the Order, the Governor General may terminate an appointment by ordinance on the Advisory Council's recommendation. Grounds include a criminal conviction, conduct that significantly departs from recognised standards, or an official sanction. Examples include Conrad Black (2014) and Buffy Sainte-Marie (2025).^2,3,4

Grades

• Companion (CC)
• Officer (OC)
• Member (CM)

Notable holders on this record

• Buffy Sainte-Marie Revoked
• Conrad Black RevokedOfficer (OC)

Official page: www.gg.ca/en/honours/canadian-honours/order-canada

Sources

1. The Governor General of Canada, Order of Canada
2. The Governor General of Canada, Order of Canada termination policy
3. Canada Gazette, Canada Gazette, Part I, Vol. 148, No. 8: Government House (22 February 2014)
4. Canada Gazette, Canada Gazette, Part I, Vol. 159, No. 6: Government House (8 February 2025)