OTTAWA, March 8, 2007 - The Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women, today announced the appointment of Clare Beckton, of Ottawa, Ontario, as Coordinator, Office of the Coordinator (Status of Women Canada).
"We are privileged and honoured to be able to have an individual with such impressive credentials and background to take on the responsibilities of Coordinator at Status of Women Canada," said Minister Oda. " I look forward to working with Ms. Beckton as we continue to take real action for all women in Canada."
Ms. Beckton is a senior executive with vast experience in the federal government. She has been Assistant Deputy Attorney General since 2005, co-chairing an Aboriginal leadership initiative with the Aboriginal Leadership Institute and other partners. From 2004 to 2005, she pursued a mid-career Masters in Public Administration at Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government. She was a Fulbright Scholar and was also awarded the Littauer Fellowship for academic excellence, contribution to public service, and leadership.
From 1998-2004, she was with the Department of Justice and served as Assistant Deputy Attorney General in the Aboriginal Affairs Portfolio; Senior Legal Counsel, Legal Services, Human Resources Development (1996-1998); General Counsel, Legal Services, Fisheries and Oceans (1992-1996); General Counsel, Legal Services Royal Canadian Mounted Police (1988-1992); Senior Counsel, Policy Coordination, Human rights Law Section (1986-1988); and Coordinator, Equality Rights, Human Rights Law Section (1984-1986).
Ms. Beckton has also taught law at Dalhousie Law School, the University of Manitoba, and the University of Illinois. She has been involved in numerous committees and organizations throughout her career including as Chairperson, Department of Fisheries and Oceans' (DFO) Task Force to Examine the Safety of Women in DFO Vessels; the Department of Justice's Advisory Committee on Equal Opportunities for Women, and the National Board of Directors of the Canadian Human Rights Foundation.
Status of Women Canada (SWC) is the federal government agency that promotes the full participation of women in the economic, social, cultural, and political life of the country.
Information :
VĂ©ronique Bruneau
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women
819 997-7788