Mr. Speaker, I rise in the House today on the occasion of International Women's Week to remember a formidable woman and a great politician who opened the doors for many Canadian women to enter politics.
I am referring of course to the hon. Judy LaMarsh who entered this House of Commons as the member for Niagara Falls, the riding I now have the honour of representing.
Judy LaMarsh was responsible for some of the Pearson government's more innovative legislation. From 1963 to 1965, under her aegis as Minister of National Health and Welfare, the Canada pension plan was implemented and Canada's medicare system was designed. She also established the Royal Commission on the Status of Women in Canada.
When Judy LaMarsh entered politics, fewer than 10 women were sitting in the House of Commons. Now, while I speak, I can see around me many women colleagues. I know we owe a debt of gratitude to pioneers like Judy LaMarsh.