Mr. Speaker, the “Hats Off to You!” competition gives bursaries to young women who dare to study in fields that lead to traditionally male-dominated occupations.
Currently the average salary for women is just three quarters that of men, except when women are in male-dominated occupations, where they are paid equally. However, women make up just 11% in vocational training and 20% in technical training.
This competition is indispensable because it provides young girls models for success, breaks traditional stereotypes and broadens their horizons.
Today is the last day for entering the competition and winners will be announced on May 7. They will be given cash prizes ranging from $500 to $5,000 and offered paid work placements and career development trips to France, to encourage them to continue down this path.
On behalf of all my colleagues in the Bloc Québécois, I commend all these women who dare to be different and I wish them good luck.