Premier Christy Clark has issued the following statement in recognition of International Women’s Day:

“Today is an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come, and celebrate the advancements we have made together toward gender equality. Throughout the province, I have met women who are leaders in fields like business, science, skilled trades, and sport.

“Since becoming Premier, I have made it a priority to give women more opportunities in leadership roles. Just under half of my Cabinet and senior public-service leaders are women, as well as over 40% of our government’s board appointees.

“But we still have a long way to go and we can’t let progress slow down. It’s up to all of us to take action to accelerate gender balance and respect for women, whose fresh perspectives, new ideas and broader experiences all benefit our diverse, strong and growing economy.

“This International Women’s Day, with the theme ‘pledging for parity’, I encourage you to reflect on how you can help promote equality and opportunity for future generations, because when women succeed, our whole community succeeds.”