By Mark Squibb/December 21, 2022
Mount Pearl councillors passed a motion last week that they hope will make a seat at their table more attractive for parents — or parents-to-be.
Councillor Jim Locke had made a notice of motion during a previous meeting that he would be bringing the motion forward at a future time. He made that motion during last week’s public meeting.
“The Corporate Services and Public Works Committee recommends adoption of the proposed amended Council Remuneration and Reimbursement Regulations, as attached, which, if adopted, will ensure that the City of Mount Pearl supports accessibility, diversity, and the inclusion and dignity of all people,” said Locke. “The amendment will also remove the need to obtain the discretionary approval of council prior to taking maternity or parental leave which approval would present a gap to full inclusivity, diversity and inclusion.”
Under the new policy, councillors will be given a maximum of 61 weeks leave, inclusive of the permitted, less than 3-month absence allowed for under the City of Mount Pearl Act. It can begin following the sixth month of pregnancy if the councillor requesting leave is the pregnant spouse, or also following birth or adoption.
Deputy Mayor Nicole Kieley seconded the motion.
“I am exceptionally proud, along with my colleagues here, to be introducing this today,” said Kieley. “The value of this, at its core, is absolutely inclusion and diversity.”
Kieley said such policies will ensure diversity within the council chambers.
Councillor Chelsea Lane found herself in a very good position to discuss the motion.
“I only just had a baby on Thursday, so it takes a barrier away from me personally as well,” said Lane. “And I know there’s probably lots of other people who are in my position who would love to be able to join something such as City council, but the fact that that barrier was there and is now removed, I think this is truly a step in the right direction, and it’s great to see that we’re preparing for the future. I’m very proud of this decision.”
Councillor Isabelle Fry noted Lane was the first ever sitting councillor to have a baby, and councillors expressed their congratulations to Lane and her family.
Lane hasn’t missed a committee or council meeting yet — sometimes attending with little Max in tow.
