Time To Speak Up Minister

New Zealand First is backing a call by the Equal Employment Commissioner Dr. Jackie Blue for a full explanation from State Services Commissioner Iain Rennie over the handling of the Roger Sutton case.

“Thank goodness for Jackie Blue because the Minister for Women is missing in action,” says Deputy Leader and Spokesperson for Women, Tracey Martin.

“New Zealand First wants to see natural justice for the woman involved through a robust employment process.

“However, now that Mr. Rennie has confirmed serious misconduct, continued references to the victim as ‘the complainant’ by the media trivialises the behaviour.

“Significant social change in the empowerment of women will only occur when there is zero tolerance for the belittling of women in the workforce.

“We must encourage our women to reach their potential by ensuring they feel safe in their workplaces.

“And where, oh where is the Minister for Women? Where is Louise Upston?

“Surely she isn’t still figuring out her job?

“The Ministry of Women’s Affairs website states that one of their leadership and governance roles involves ‘thought leadership’.

“Here’s a thought Minister – how about speaking up?

“The way this has been handled hot on the heels of the Roast Busters case is reinforcing for women that you can’t look to this government or its agencies for leadership.

ENDS

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