Parker, Dehra (1882–1963)

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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).

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Parker, Dehra (1882–1963)

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