Harper's Record 'Disastrous' for Women: Layton

Layton said Harper's record is "disastrous" for women citing examples like the Conservatives' removal of the word 'equality' from the mandate of Status of Women Canada.

The leader of the New Democrats pointed to the enduring reality of women's inequality in Canada. Women still earn on average 30 cents less on the dollar, and two-thirds of minimum wage workers are women - many living below the poverty line.

Layton talked about the New Democrats' long history of commitment to women's rights, pay and employment equity, fighting violence against women, and increasing the number of women candidates and MPs.

"Our vision is one of helping ordinary people, women and men, and children improve their lives. That means first and foremost achieving women's equality and strengthening women's rights. We will reverse the Harper cuts, and invest $120 million in women's organizations each year."

613-720-6463 (karl@ndp.ca)