Council Elects First Acadian Chair

The Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women has elected an Acadian chair for the first time in its 30-year history. Jean d'Entremont of Argyle was inducted to the position at Province House, today, April 30, in Halifax.

"Council's experience and diversity help government develop and deliver services that reflect the needs of women and their families," said Carolyn Bolivar-Getson, Minister responsible for the advisory council. "Jean is very involved in her community, and, with other council members, will help me stay connected to the women I represent."

Ms. d'Entremont has long been involved in women's issues and Acadian heritage. She is president of the Fédération des femmes acadiennes de la Nouvelle-Écosse. She has been a member of l'Association des Acadiennes de la région d'Argyle since it was founded in 1983. She also served on Le Réveil de Pombcoup since 1978 and is a member of La Société historique acadienne de Pubnico-Ouest.

Council members elect a new chair every two years. Ms. d'Entremont succeeds Liz Chisholm, whose term ended on March 31.

Ms. d'Entremont had a clear view of the council's ongoing work.

"Encourage more women to get involved in political and public life, especially those from diverse communities. Improve the capacity of women for well-paying work. Address violence against women and girls in our homes, workplaces and communities," she said. "These are the council's main goals and they are fundamental to building better futures for women."

Council members for 2009-10 are: Liz Chisholm of Antigonish; Shelley Goodwin of Yarmouth; Patricia LeBlanc of Sydney; Holly Meuse of Bear River; Doreen Paris of New Glasgow; Sonja Power of Amherst; and Rita Warner of Judique.

The council advises the provincial government and works with federal and municipal governments, community and business organizations and universities to:

• increase the participation of women in decisions that affect their lives, families and communities
• build women's economic equality
• reduce violence against women
• improve the health and well-being of women and their families