The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement to welcome the Honourable Karina Gould back to her duties as Minister of Democratic Institutions:

"Earlier this year, the Honourable Karina Gould took a leave of absence from her role as Minister of Democratic Institutions to go on parental leave.

“Today, we welcome Minister Gould and her family back to Ottawa as she resumes her duties as Minister of Democratic Institutions. She now joins the many Canadian parents who work hard every day to balance their professional and parental responsibilities. The Government of Canada strives to support all Canadians who wish to have a family and a career, and we are proud to congratulate Minister Gould on being the first federal cabinet member to give birth while in office.

"I would also like to thank the Honourable Scott Brison, who served as acting Minister of Democratic Institutions during Minister Gould’s absence. During that time, he helped introduce important legislation to modernize Canada’s electoral process – something that is very important to the government.

"Once again, Sophie and I congratulate Minister Gould on the birth of her son and wish her and her family a future filled with love and happiness.”