Statement by the Honourable Helena Guergis on the Occasion of International Women's Day

March 8, 2009

Today I would like to join with Canadians from coast to coast to coast in
celebrating International Women's Day.  Today is the culmination of
International Women's Week - a time to acknowledge women's achievements
around the world.  This year's theme is Strong Leadership. Strong Women.
Strong World: Equality.  This theme reflects our Government's firm belief
that when women have the opportunity to participate in all aspects of
Canadian life then Canada prospers.

Canada is facing the challenges of the global financial crises. Our
government has delivered a multi year economic action plan that is a
balanced approach to stimulate economic growth, restore confidence and
support Canadians, including Canadian women and their families.

As part of International Women's Week, I had the  honour to address the
United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW) to highlight the
significant progress women have made in Canada and to reaffirm Canada's
commitment to national and international gender equality.

The theme at the UNCSW this year was "The equal sharing of
responsibilities between women and men," and this theme is more applicable
than ever.  Sharing of responsibilities is about more than women entering
the workforce, it is also about recognizing the important role of
caregiving.  Our Government knows this, and that is why we have provided
caregivers with support through a number of mechanisms, including a
Universal Child Care plan, tax credits, maternity and parental benefits,
Compassionate Care benefits and targeted programs for caregivers of
Veterans and First Nations.

Our government's commitment to women extends beyond economic opportunity
and includes promoting women in leadership. This is most evident in the
recent appointment by Prime Minister Stephen Harper of the highest
percentage of women to the federal Cabinet in Canadian history as well as
designating a Minister of State solely dedicated to the Status of Women.
Our Government increased funding to Status of Women programs by 42%,
bringing it to its highest level ever, and supporting programs and
partnerships that provide grassroots support to the women who need it most.