The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women:

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize the important work of the Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter of Equal Voice.

Equal Voice is a multi-partisan organization dedicated to achieving gender parity in politics. On the local front, Equal Voice NL has been a leader in encouraging more women to run for office at all levels of government by providing advocacy and training.

Recently, Equal Voice NL appointed two new co-chairs, Karla Hayward and Gillian Pearson.

During my tenure as the provincial representative with the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians, I worked closely with Equal Voice, both provincially and nationally.  I have seen the positive impact of their efforts first hand, and I look forward to working with Ms. Hayward and Ms. Pearson on our common goals.

Mr. Speaker, as I look around this Honourable House, I am proud to be one of nine women sitting here today. However, nine of forty is simply not enough.

We know that when we have more diverse backgrounds and experiences at our decision making tables, we make better decisions for the people we serve.  I ask all Honourable Members to join me in committing to support, sponsor, and inspire more women to take on leadership roles, particularly those who wish to run for elected office in Newfoundland and Labrador.