Council needs more women

Encouraging a better gender balance in local government

Sixteen members sit around Prince Edward County’s council table. Just five are women.

“Women represent more than 50 per cent of the electorate,” observes Victoria Leskie, former clerk of the municipality of Prince Edward. “But represent far less than 50 per cent of the elected positions.”

In fact, on County council, women make up just a third of its members

Leskie and Councillor Bev Campbell would like to change this—encourage a better balance.

“Municipal governments make far-reaching decisions that affect our lives, every day and into the future,” said Bev Campbell, “Women bring a unique perspective, attitude, and experience to decision-making—an approach that is typically more inclusive, compassionate and respectful than is often seen at municipal council tables.”

To help encourage greater participation, the group is hosting a series of interactive roundtable discussions in March and April. They have also launched a Facebook page: County Council needs more women.

Leskie believes that the benefits of being a councillor may be either overlooked or unknown by many women.

“It is a great opportunity to gain unique experience, knowledge and skills, while making a difference in the community,” said Leskie.

Leskie and Campbell are joined in this initiative with Councillor Heather Campbell and Lyndsay Richmond. For more information you can reach them through Facebook or email: electwomen.pec@gmail.com.