Minister Leitch Congratulates Ontario Securities Commission as Action on Women's Leadership Gains Momentum

OTTAWA, July 30, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Dr. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women, highlighted the leadership demonstrated by the Government of Ontario and Ontario Securities Commission to increase women's representation on corporate boards. Minister Leitch pointed to the release today of the Ontario Securities Commission's consultation paper on promoting gender diversity on corporate boards and in senior management positions.

"I commend the Government of Ontario and the Ontario Securities Commission for taking action to increase women's leadership on the boards of directors and in the senior management positions of our country's most influential companies," said Minister Leitch.

In April of this year, the Government of Canada followed through on its Economic Action Plan 2012 commitment to establish an advisory council to promote women's participation on corporate boards. The advisory council, which held its first meeting in June, is expected to make its recommendations in the fall of 2013.

Federal-Provincial-Territorial (FPT) Ministers Responsible for the Status of Women have also expressed their support for increasing the number of women in senior decision-making roles. Their booklet, The Business Case for Women on Boards, was produced in collaboration with the Conference Board of Canada.

SOURCE Status of Women Canada