About this user
First elected to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario in 2003 and re-elected in 2007, Laurel was appointed Minister of Children and Youth Services and Minister Responsible for Women's Issues and the poverty reduction strategy in October 2009.
A tireless advocate for women and children, Laurel conducted province-wide consultations that led to the Government's Domestic Violence Action Plan and introduced legislation that requires all Ontarians to report images of child abuse. This bill became law under the Child Pornography Reporting Act.
Laurel again took bold and progressive steps when she authored a report detailing a Five Point Action Plan to create more opportunities and reduce barriers for internationally trained doctors in Ontario. Her report formed the basis for new legislation in 2008, and helps to improve access to health care for Ontario families.
As Minister of the Environment, Laurel developed policies under one of Canada's most comprehensive Climate Change Plans that supports business, creates jobs and sets aggressive targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. She also introduced the Clean Water Act designed to better safeguard Ontario's drinking water, banned diversions from the Great Lakes; and, for the first time, charged commercial and industrial users for the water they take and use.
To support a strong community and province, Laurel's work in the area of corporate social responsibility and the better protection of investors, led to a review of Ontario's current reporting standards after receiving unanimous support by the Legislature.
Laurel has been an active member of her community for a decade. Prior to running for office, she built a successful career practicing equity, commercial and human rights law. She earned her law degree from the University of Western Ontario with distinction, and articled at the Supreme Court of Canada for one of Canada's most preeminent jurists.
Laurel, who is fluently bilingual, lives in Etobicoke with her husband Paul, twin sons Zachary and Ryan, and their dog, Howard.
Age
22
Country
Canada
