Canadian Tamil Police Deputy Chief Nishan Duraiappah Receives Order of Merit

Canadian Tamil Nishan Duraiappah was first introduced to the Police force as a high school student, participating in an inaugural Police Ethnic and Cultural Education Program (PEACE) in 1991. The experience inspired him to pursue a career in policing. In December 1995 Nishan was sworn in as a constable in Halton Hills, located in the northwestern end of the Greater Toronto Area.

Throughout his career he has worked in the Regional Drug & Morality Bureau, Guns & Gangs Unit, District Criminal Investigations and with the RCMP Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit. He has also had a strong commitment with many of the Region’s diverse, cultural, and faith communities as the Halton Police Diversity & Cultural Relations Coordinator.

Duraiappah holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology and Criminology from the University of Toronto and a Diploma of Public Administration from the University of Western Ontario.

Two decades later Duraiappah is appointed the Halton Police Deputy Chief, leading District Operations for all four municipalities in Halton as well as the Regional Community Mobilization Bureau, Information Technology and OCISM.

Honouring his exceptional service to Canada’s Police force, the Governor General David Johnston presented Nishan Duraiappah the Order of Merit on Friday 16th September 2016 during a ceremony at Ottawa’s Rideau Hall.

“It’s a humbling experience to be included with the other Canadians who’ve been conferred this Order of Merit,” said Duraiappah. “The reality is many officers daily set out to create meaningful impact in their profession and in their community – it’s what makes our police agencies and our country so great. Personally, meeting His Excellency David Johnston with my family amidst the grandeur and history of Rideau Hall was also a great highlight.”

Halton Police Chief Stephen Tanner, who is also a recipient of the Order of Merit, congratulated Duraiappah on his accomplishment. “Deputy Chief Duraiappah is an exceptional leader and tireless community advocate who is a most deserving recipient of this prestigious award. It is my honour and pleasure to extend my congratulations to him on behalf of our service and the people of Halton.”

Source: Halton Police & Oakville news

Photo: MCpl Vincent Carbonneau, Rideau Hall, OSGG