Sophie Grgoire Trudeau should 'absolutely' have resources for her work, PM says

Prime Minister Justin Trudeausays he is supportive of his wife's public persona, and she should "absolutely" have the resources she needs to continue the work she does.

The prime minister said Wednesday in his final press conference of the parliamentary sitting that her work is not for the benefit of the Liberal Party, or hisgovernment,but for all Canadians.

"I'm very proud of everything she's done throughout the country. She will continue to offer her participation and not just be there for the government but for all Canadians and we want to make sure that she will continue to do the work that she does," he said in French.

Asked what the role should be for the wife of the prime minister, Trudeau said not all spouses have to fit the same mould and there should be no formal expectations."There are various different families that have different abilities so this obviously should be flexible. A person should be able to choose how they serve," he added.

Sophie Grgoire Trudeauhas been a vocal advocate for women's rights and has sought to raise awareness for eating disorders.

In addition to attendingofficial events and travelling on international trips with the prime minister, Grgoire Trudeau isthe official spokesperson of Fillactive, a foundation that provides opportunities for girls between the ages of 12 to 17 to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle.She is also the honorary chair of the National Arts CentreGala.

"She promotes many other causes through public appearances, keynote speeches and media opportunities," Olivier Duchesneau, a PMO spokesperson, said in an e-mail to CBC News.

GrgoireTrudeau recently faced some criticism after telling a Quebec newspaper that she needs more staff to support her efforts.

She has one executive assistant in her employ and she regularly receives help from staff in the Prime Minister's Office to fulfil her duties and responsibilities on an ad hoc basis, Duchesneau said.

"We are continuing to look at new ways to make sure she is supported at the official events she attends, as well as making sure that correspondence from Canadians across the country is triaged and answered in a timely manner," he said.

GrgoireTrudeau poked fun at her public image in a skit at the annual parliamentary press gallery dinner earlier this month.

'It's all about me,' Sophie Grgoire Trudeau sings

8 years ago

Duration 0:44

PM's wife jokes at Press Gallery dinner about media storm over request for more staff