Kim Campbell

“Governments allocate enormous resources for social programs. And it is true that for many years we have had one of the best social service systems in the world. Yet we are still incapable of meeting the needs of tens of thousands of Canadian families.”

“For too many, to work means having less income.”

“For people on social assistance, the loss of free dental care, prescription drugs and subsidized housing can greatly outweigh additional income from working. We've all heard the stories.”

“We have to define and put into practice a better, more coherent and effective policy on income security.”

“Since the end of the Second World War, our population has more than doubled to 27 million people.”

“To suggest that Quebecers willingly give up the chance to exercise fully their influence within the federal government would be to betray the historical role Quebec has always played in Confederation, and to undermine the legitimacy of their pride and ambitions.”

“Government cannot and must not replace private initiative.”

“I believe it is time for new leadership that is able to leave the '70s behind.”

“Our first Prime Minister saw a country that would be known for its generosity of spirit. And so it is.”

“On the same day I was sworn in as Prime Minister of Canada, I announced the most sweeping reform ever undertaken in the structure of our federal government.”

“Canada is the homeland of equality, justice and tolerance.”

“I'd be prouder still to say I was Canada's 10th woman prime minister.”

“I know Quebecers don't want to relive old battles; they prefer to build for the future.”

“Despite our high rate of unemployment, 300,000 jobs go unfilled largely because many of the unemployed lack the skills needed today as a result of technological progress.”

“Some of you may have been hoping that today I would speak about Lucien Bouchard's latest economic theories. But I have decided to spare him for the time being: after all, he is a man.”

“The world has changed profoundly since our programs were first established.”

“I believe that Canadians have the common sense to see that a better future cannot be built on fragmentation.”

“I have always believed governments must adapt to the needs of the people, not the other way around.”

“In all modesty, we must admit that governments are not always the best doctors when it comes to diagnosing economic ailments and prescribing the right treatment.”

“Canadians want to see real hope restored, not false hopes raised.”