The Honourable Tony Wakeham, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, issued the following statement on the passing of Former Senator, Ethel Cochrane:

“Today, I join family, friends, and colleagues in mourning the loss of the Honourable Ethel Cochrane, a trailblazer for Newfoundland and Labrador, whose contributions helped shape our province and our country.

As the first woman appointed to represent Newfoundland and Labrador in the Senate of Canada, Senator Cochrane broke new ground and opened doors for future generations of women in public life.

Appointed to the Senate in 1986, she served Canadians with distinction for more than 25 years. Senator Cochrane will be remembered for her commitment to public service, her leadership, and her unwavering dedication to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. Her legacy as a pioneer, educator, and advocate will continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.

On behalf of our government and all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, I extend my sincere condolences to her family, friends, former colleagues, and all those whose lives she inspired.

Flags at Confederation Building will be flown at half-mast today and will remain at half-mast until sunset on the day of the funeral. As former Senator Cochrane resided in Port au Port East, provincial government buildings in Stephenville will also fly their flags at half-mast for the same period.”

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