On Thursday (March 13) morning at 6:24 a.m., Darlene Rotchford, MLA for Esquimalt-Colwood, welcomed her second daughter into the world. Six hours later, she tuned into Parliament to vote remotely on the B.C. budget from her Victoria General Hospital bed 鈥� her bundle of joy still in her arms.
The moment led to a standing ovation from the Chamber, who turned to look up at Rotchford and baby Josephine Catherine Ellen Rotchford on the screen.
Rotchford later reflected through a heartfelt post on Instagram, pledging to serve her riding throughout motherhood.
"During my time (in) local government, I became a mom to my little girl Evie. I showed up, sometimes with Evie, to meetings and made sure the people of Esquimalt were represented. I plan to do the same with Joe during my time as the MLA (for) Esquimalt-Colwood and for the people of the province."
The standing ovation wasn't the only nod that Rotchford and baby Josephine got during the session. As part of the morning sitting opening welcomes, MLA Jennifer Blatherwick said she had the "incredible honour to give the very first welcome to a human being," welcoming Josephine born at 7 pounds 8 ounces. Blatherwick asked for the House to give a "loud enough welcome" so that they could hear them "all the way at the hospital."
Congratulations and well-wishes continued on social media, with one Instagram commenter calling her a "real Canadian hero."
Rotchford will be on a two-week break from the Legislature and noted on Instagram that she is already enjoying her time with her family.
"Both Josephine and I are doing great, and we're soaking in these first precious moments as a family of four."
