OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - March 2, 2011) - The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism), today issued the following statement honouring the winners of British Columbia's 2011 Influential Women in Business Awards:

"It is my sincere pleasure to congratulate the six distinguished executives in British Columbia who are being recognized as influential women in business. As Minister for Status of Women, I am proud to recognize the hard work and dedication of Canadian women who are making a difference and soaring to new heights. These awards come at an important time, as next week Canadians will celebrate International Women's Week, recognizing women and girls here in Canada and around the world.

"Today, on behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to recognize the 2011 honourees:

• Bev Briscoe, President, Briscoe Management Ltd. (Lifetime Achievement Award)

• Amiee Chan, President and Chief Executive Officer, Norsat International Inc.

• Christine Day, Chief Executive Officer, lululemon athletica inc.

• Evaleen Jaager Roy, Principal, Jaager Roy Advisory Inc.

• Tina Osen, President and Chief Executive Officer, HUB International TOS Limited

• Tracy Redies, President and Chief Executive Officer, Coast Capital Savings

"Congratulations to these women who have shown leadership in their industries and have made significant contributions to their local business communities and Canada's economy. On behalf of the Government of Canada, my best wishes to the winners of British Columbia's 2011 Influential Women in Business Awards."