Building Gets New Name

The name of a trailblazing Island woman, Jean Canfield, is going to grace the new Government of Canada Building in Charlottetown. The announcement was made by the Honourable Scott Brison, Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada and Shawn Murphy, Member of Parliament for Hillsborough at a press conference in Charlottetown on August 17, 2005.

PWGSC worked with the community through the project's Community Liaison Committee (CLC) to select a name that would fit closely with the city's character. The name was the most popular choice put forward in an extensive public consultation administered by the CLC.

A popular, active member of the Island community, Jean Canfield made political history on May 11, 1970 when she became the first woman elected to Prince Edward Island's Legislative Assembly. From October 10, 1972 to May 2, 1974, she also served as Minister without Portfolio and Minister Responsible for P.E.I. Housing Authority, becoming the first woman to sit in the Provincial Cabinet... more about Jean Canfield

"We're thrilled to honour Jean Canfield, whose avant-garde approach to politics and public life blazed a trail for the women who would follow her," said Minister Brison. "Like Ms. Canfield, our building will represent several firsts for the Government of Canada, serving as both a model and a promise to future generations."

Mrs. Canfield's daughter, Dr. Joyce Canfield, noted that though her mother was not someone who sought attention, she would have been pleased and honoured to be selected for such a tribute. "She worked hard for her constituents," said Dr. Canfield. "She was very modest about her accomplishments but we were always proud of her. Today we can share that pride with all of you."

Following the announcement, Minister Brison, MP Shawn Murphy and Dr. Joyce Canfield, toured the construction site of the new building. The Minister was impressed with the speed of construction and looked forward to returning in 2007 for the building's opening.

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