Tag: Cathy Bennett

Her announcement comes on the heels of a variety of harassment claims which led to the removal of both Dale Kirby and Eddie Joyce from caucus and cabinet. These incidents led to a discussion regarding bullying and harassment within the provincial government that included Bennett coming forward in a public interview to discuss her experience with bullying, not only on a public platform but also within the House chambers. However, shouldn’t the question really be why have we accepted politics to be such a hazardous and hostile environment? Bennett’s early retirement is reflective of an unfortunate trend within politics. Women are forced out of positions because of an environment that resists them performing their best, as well as representing their constituents to the full extent. Rather, it becomes a constant focus that not only hinders one’s ability to produce effectively, but is also a disadvantage to their constituents. Unfortunately, women in politics are more likely to step down from politics for numerous reasons, while recently a new and ongoing trend is politicians stepping down due to harassment claims against them. These ongoing harassment and bullying claims are evidence that the system is corrupt, yet, we are turning a blind eye and questioning victimized politicians who choose to step down, stating they “can’t hack it.” But why does one have to tolerate such ongoing behaviour? Forcing women out of politics actually hinders the public. The current toxic political environment is not appreciated by those within it, yet it is accepted and complacent to allow harassment and bullying, and critical of those who speak against it.