A Statement from the PEI Coalition for Women in Government
Regarding questions asked during the Standing Committee on Health & Social Development October 5th, 2023
The PEI Coalition for Women in Government appreciates that an apology was issued by MLA Tyler Desroches on his Facebook page yesterday quickly following his remarks, and that this statement recognizes the damaging nature of his line of questioning during the Standing Committee on Health & Social Development on October 4th, 2023.
We have questioned the intent behind the inquiry. Women entering roles traditionally held by a majority of men often face criticism of their capabilities, whether physical, mental or otherwise. For Paramedicine, there has been a national increase in women entering the field, and yet they still have not reached equity in more senior paramedic roles. Looking more locally, the Physical Abilities Test administered by Holland College is a requirement for all to proceed through Paramedicine, regardless of their weight-class or gender, details of which can be found on their website.
We do ask that the conversation return to equipping our Island EMS teams with the staff and greatly needed resources to safely and effectively serve PEI. Our Board and staff thank all individuals who have chosen this as a career path. The Coalition is available to all Members of the Legislative Assembly to assist in furthering their understanding of the importance of women's leadership in previously male dominated fields.