(April 7, 2021) – Helen Conway Ottenheimer, MHA for Harbour Main and PC Critic for the Status of Women, says she’s hopeful Andrew Furey will take the opportunity to make history by naming the first gender parity cabinet in Newfoundland and Labrador history.

In his first cabinet, Furey named 14 ministers, including himself. After the 2021 election, there are seven capable women within the Liberal caucus. Conway Ottenheimer says she knows the province would be well served with equal representation at the cabinet table.

“I hope Premier Furey recognizes that he has a unique opportunity to make history in our province with his upcoming cabinet choices. An equal pairing of men and women at the cabinet table is not only a strong gesture, but will lead to better decision making with more diversity of voices around the table,” said Conway Ottenheimer.

“Why should Furey make an effort to have gender parity in his cabinet? Because it’s 2021.”

Lela Evans, MHA for Torngat Mountains and PC Critic for Labrador Affairs, says a gender parity cabinet would be an important symbol for the next generation of women in public life in our province.

“It’s well established that women face more barriers to entering public service than men. Gender parity in Furey’s cabinet would be a strong signal that the voices of women in our politics are heard and have key insight into the future of our province,” said Evans.

“Furey has an opportunity to make history and I encourage him to take it.”
 

Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Communications

(p) (709) 769-2216

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