Parker, Dehra (1882–1963)

views updated

Parker, Dehra (1882–1963)

Northern Ireland politician. Name variations: Dame Dehra Parker, Dehra Chichester, Dehra Kerr-Fisher. Born Dehra Kerr-Fisher, 1882, in Kilrea, Co. Derry, Northern Ireland; died Nov 28, 1963; dau. of James Kerr-Fisher; m. Lt. Col. Robert Spencer Chichester, 1901 (died 1921); m. Admiral W.H. Parker, 1928 (died 1940).

Representing the Unionist Party for Londonderry, was the 1st woman to sit in the Northern Ireland Cabinet (1921–29); was the 1st woman in Britain selected to present the annual address on behalf of the House of Commons (1924); was reelected (1933) for South Londonderry, serving in the Northern Ireland House, all told, for 35 years; introduced Education Act (1938) which reformed Northern Ireland's education system; served as minister of Health and Local Government (1949–57); resigned from Parliament (1960). Named Officer of the British Empire (OBE, 1949).

More From encyclopedia.com

About this article

Parker, Dehra (1882–1963)

Updated About encyclopedia.com content Print Article

You Might Also Like