The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador:

Premier Pays Tribute to the Life and Legacy of Hazel McIsaac

Mr. Speaker, I rise with sadness today to acknowledge the passing of Hazel McIsaac and to offer sincere condolences to her loved ones.

Hazel McIsaac was the first woman to become a Member of the House of Assembly post-Confederation. She was a true trailblazer in Newfoundland and Labrador’s political history and helped pave the way for women wishing to enter political life.

Born in Robinsons in 1933, Ms. McIsaac was educated at the Sisters of Mercy Convent Boarding School in St. George’s and over the years, she worked at Harmon Air Force Base in Stephenville and managed two local businesses. She was later appointed as town clerk in St. George’s, where she was the first woman to ever hold that position.

In 1975, Ms. McIsaac set her sights on provincial politics and on September 16, was elected to represent the Liberal Party in the District of St. George’s as a Member of the House of Assembly. During her time in office, she was devoted to environmental and social issues.

In 1980, Ms. McIsaac returned to her role as town clerk in St. George’s where she was later elected as mayor. She was devoted to her community, contributing to the library board, local development associations, parks and recreation committees, Women’s Institute seminars, and in the 1980s, opened her home as a community residence for young offenders.

Mr. Speaker, as a tribute to her contribution to the betterment of our society as a strong and influential woman in Newfoundland and Labrador politics, the MV Hazel McIsaac ferry was named in her honour. Her legacy will now be represented in a very tangible way long into the future.

I had the pleasure of meeting Ms. McIsaac last year. Mr. Speaker, she served the people of this province admirably and holds an important place in the history of our province. On behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, I offer my deepest sympathies to her loved ones.

Thank you Mr. Speaker.

2012 12 17             1:50 p.m.