Josée Verner was first elected as a Member of Parliament in 2006 and re-elected in 2008. In February 2006, Ms. Verner was appointed Minister of International Cooperation and Minister for La Francophonie and Official Languages. In August 2007, she was named Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages. In May 2008, she was assigned additional responsibilities as Minister for La Francophonie.

Ms. Verner has spent close to 20 years in the communications and public service fields, including at the Quebec provincial Ministry of Health and Social Services.

Ms. Verner is involved in her community and has spent time fundraising for the Children’s Make A Wish Foundation.

Ms. Verner is married and has three children.