Officer of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: October 23, 1989
• Invested on: April 18, 1990

He was the principal catalyst in the formation of an independent Newfoundland fishermen's organization, which ultimately led to the founding and his subsequent presidency of the Fishermen, Food and Allied Workers Union. He has brought about profound changes in the working conditions and earnings of maritime fishermen by introducing them to the concept of trade unionism.