Minister provides update on recruitment process for PACSW

Joan Burke, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women, is pleased to report that there has been significant interest in the recruitment process for the Provincial Advisory Council on the Status of Women. The competition for the President position closed Tuesday, February 14, with many applications received from interested women across the province, along with several nominations for the board.

"I am very pleased with the response to the position," said Minister Burke. "We have received applications from a broad representation of feminist and equality-seeking women from all walks of life across the province."

Applications will now be reviewed by the Public Service Commission based on the candidate�s demonstrated knowledge of women�s equality issues and feminist principles. Candidates must also demonstrate that they have strong leadership qualities and good financial and board management skills. A final decision will be announced at the end of this month.

"The Advisory Council is essential to advancing the status of women in the province," said Minister Burke. "There is a long-standing precedent of having strong women with a feminist perspective on this council, and it is very important to see that continue."

The decision to run a public competition was made to increase transparency and ensure that appointments are made based on merit. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador frequently uses a public recruitment process to fill senior leadership positions.

"My main priority is to have someone who can work with the women�s community to bring before government issues of importance to all women. I�m confident we have a good process in place to get the right person for the job."

The call for nominations for the board of the Provincial Advisory Council on the Status of Women will close on February 21, 2006. Already, there have been nominations received from women all over the province for these positions.

"I would like to encourage more equality-seeking women from across Newfoundland and Labrador, who would like to contribute to this important board, to put their names forward."

Media contact: Jacquelyn Howard, Communications, (709) 729-0048, 689-2624

Catherine Whelan, Communications, (709) 729-6225

2006 02 16                           2:10 p.m.