Statement of the Mayor on the passing of Manuel G. Batshaw

MONTRÉAL, July 19, 2016 /CNW Telbec/ - Mr. Denis Coderre, Mayor of Montréal, reacted this morning to news of the passing of Manuel G. Batshaw, underlining his significant contribution to Montréal, Québec and Canadian society: "A lifelong activist for the well-being of our children, this social worker by education made milestone contributions to child welfare in Quebec. Over the years, society benefited from his vision and his passion to concretely improve the lives of children and youth," said Mr. Coderre.

Born of Russian immigrant parents whose family marked the history of the Montréal Jewish community, he began his career in the Canadian Armed Forces and later held the post of Director General of Jewish Community Services. He became very involved with the Jewish community both at home and elsewhere in North America.  He was then called upon to chair the Committee of Inquiry into the Rehabilitation of Children and Adolescents in Institutions (the Batshaw Committee). Its landmark report led to the implementation of the Québec Youth Protection Act. His contribution to society was recognized on several occasions: Ordre national du Québec (1995), Member of the Order of Canada (2004) and an honorary degree of Doctor of Laws by McGill University (1998).

 "I would like, on my own behalf and on behalf of all Montrealers, to pay tribute to the memory of this exceptional man. He spent his whole life improving the lives of others. His loss leaves a huge void to fill, but his vision will continue to nourish our discussions and our actions. He inspired us to put children first and it is our duty to continue his work. May his memory be a blessing for us all," concluded Mr. Coderre.

SOURCE Ville de Montréal - Cabinet du maire et du comité exécutif

For further information: Marc-André Gosselin, Office of the Mayor and the Executive Committee, Ville de Montreal, 514 290-1194