The following statement was read today by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation:

Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to formally congratulate Justice Stacy Ryan on her appointment to the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador. This is a tremendous accomplishment in its own right, but even more noteworthy is the fact that Madam Justice Ryan holds the distinction as the first Inuk woman from Newfoundland and Labrador to hold such a prestigious position.

In the company of a small group of family members and friends, Justice Ryan was sworn in last week during a special ceremony at the courthouse in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

The road to the Supreme Court is marked by hard work and perseverance. Born and raised in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, she practiced criminal and family law in Labrador with the Legal Aid Commission for more than 20 years. Her contributions to her community are also noteworthy, as she served on various boards and volunteered her time with sports-related activities.

Madam Justice Ryan has spoken about the challenges many Labradorians like her face in pursuing their career goals, but her message to others is that education and diligence can take you a long way.

As a Labradorian and an Indigenous woman, I am extremely proud of Madam Justice Ryan and many others like her who have broken through the proverbial glass ceiling. Well done, Madam Justice Ryan. Your achievements are an inspiration. You are an important role model for Labrador, for women, and the Indigenous community.

Thank you.