Emma McIntosh, left, a reporter with the Narwhal, and Noor Javed, a reporter with the Toronto Star react after they are announced as the winners of the 2023 Michener Award for their reporting on the Ontario Greenbelt scandal, at the Michener Awards Ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, on Friday, June 14, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/ Patrick Doyle
OTTAWA - The Narwhal and the Toronto Star won the 2023 Michener Award for their investigative reporting on Ontario's Greenbelt scandal.
The Michener Awards Foundation highlighted that their 2023 investigation revealed how developers with political connections bought devalued farmland just before Premier Doug Ford lifted Greenbelt protections. This reporting led to Ford abandoning the development plan on these lands, resulting in the resignation of two ministers and two senior staff members.
The Canadian Press was also nominated for an extensive investigation by reporter Darryl Greer, which uncovered a toxic workplace and sexual assault allegations at Canada's spy agency, CSIS. CSIS director David Vigneault described it as an "extraordinary moment" for the agency, while Prime Minister Justin Trudeau labeled the allegations "devastating."
Established in 1970 by former Governor General Roland Michener, the Michener Award celebrates excellence in public service journalism.
Other finalists included CBC/Radio-Canada's work on sex crime allegations against billionaire Robert Miller, the Globe and Mail's coverage of fire safety in Montreal, the Montreal Gazette's investigation into the suicide of a retired police officer in a hospital emergency room, and Radio-Canada's exposé on the dark side of Neptune.
Gov. Gen. Mary Simon honored the finalists at a ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, stating, "This year’s finalists have used their investigative talents to influence change within our communities. Each story recognized tonight has made a difference, showcasing the importance of journalism."
