Women in Local Government

Message from Councillor Claire Detheridge, Women in Local Government Project Chair

Claire DetheridgeCouncillor Claire DetheridgeIn Nova Scotia, we need more women in municipal government decision-making. Women make up more than half the population, yet only 21 per cent of municipal councillors. The Women in Local Government Project aims to have at least 30 per cent of all council seats represented by women.

Unfortunately, the total number of women elected officials did not change between the 2004 and 2008 municipal elections. This figure still stands at 21 per cent. However the positive news is that of the 181 women who ran in the 2008 municipal elections, 94 or 52 per cent were elected (including 18 acclaimed).

This website will inform you about the Women in Local Government Project and outline ways women can actively participate in municipal decision-making.

We encourage women to get involved in all areas of municipal government. We want them to vote,  get involved in community issues of importance to them, attend public consultations, join committees and boards, and run for council.

Election Results For Women 2008