Government Home Search Sitemap Contact Us

New coordinator for Provincial Strategy against violence

Julie Bettney, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women, is pleased to announce that effective April 1, 1997, Beth Lacey, researcher for Women's Policy Office, will be assuming the duties of coordinator for the Provincial Strategy Against Violence. The coordinator oversees the implementation of government's five year action plan to address violence against women, children, elderly and dependent adults. The present incumbent, Jim Oldford, has decided to return to his former position with the Adolescent Team of the Children's Community Mental Health Program of the St. John's Health Care Corporation.

"Ms. Lacey is a logical choice for this position as she is already familiar with the position through her work within Women's Policy Office where the coordinator position is located, and because she has strong ties with the women's community," stated Ms. Bettney. Women's Policy Office has played a lead role in developing the Provincial Strategy Against Violence in partnership with the departments of Health, Social Services, Education and Justice and in consultation with the community. Ms. Lacey, having worked with Women's Policy Office as researcher for the past eight years, is already familiar with the various aspects of the Strategy's Action Plan and members of the Strategy's Coordinating Team. Ms. Lacey also brings a strong sense of community to the position through her previous work as coordinator of the St. John's Women's Centre, and through her volunteer work as a member of the St. John's Status of Women Council, and as former chair of Iris Kirby House Board. Ms. Lacey was recently awarded a life-time membership in CRIAW (Canadian Research Institute for the Advancement of Women) for her work on women's issues.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Oldford for his past year's work with the strategy. He is to be commended for his hard work and dedication in coordinating the Strategy Team's efforts during this initial year which can be the most difficult in a multi-year plan," said Ms. Bettney.

Contact: Cindy Christopher, Public Relations Specialist, Women's Policy Office, (709) 729-5730.