Marlene Catterall remembered as accomplished politician, trailblazer for women

Tributes are pouring in for Marlene Catterall, a former Ottawa city councillor, member of Parliament and the first woman to become the chief government whip.

Catterall, described as a trailblazer who broke barriers for women, died earlier this week. She was 85.

Catterall, who was born in Ottawa, was elected as a Liberal MP in 1988 and was re-elected over the following four terms, finally retiring from her storied political career in 2006.

«We knew that was a big deal, having a government whip that was a woman,» said Bay ward Coun. Theresa Kavanagh.

«It doesn't seem like a new idea now, but it was then. So it was a breakthrough. It was a perfect job for her.»

Kavanagh said she and Catterall were political rivals early on, but Catterall soon became a mentor and a friend.

During her time in federal politics, Catterall represented Ottawa West and later Ottawa West–Nepean. She also sat on Ottawa's pre-amalgamation city council from 1976 to 1985, and ran unsuccessfully for mayor against Jim Durrell.

Before entering politics, Catterall taught high school.

Kavanagh recalled Catterall as a challenging opponent.

«Don't go up against her without knowing what you're up against because she's tough. She's smart, but for the right reasons,» Kavanagh told CBC Radio's on Wednesday.

Prime minister sends condolences

On social media, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Catterall's «tireless work as a social activist, politician, and Canada's first female Chief Government Whip opened countless doors for future generations.»

Last year, Catterall received a Governor General's award for her work, which included helping secure pay equity for women in the public service.

«I'm sending my deepest condolences to her loved ones,» the prime minister said.

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