26 July 2007 Edition
Equality for women 'generations away'
Sinn Féin Equality spokesperson Foyle MLA Martina Anderson has expressed disappointment at a new report from the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC), which says equality between men and women is potentially generations away.
She said it shows how much work needs to be done to redress that balance.
The study said it would take another 45 years for women to receive a similar-sized pension to men. The income for retired women is currently 40% less than for men.The gap between the hourly pay for part-time workers, who are predominantly women, and that of their full-time colleagues will also take 25 years to close.
“This is totally unacceptable,” says Anderson. “It is clear from this report that despite all the strategies and policies adopted by government to promote gender equality, extensive discrimination against women in all areas of life still exists.
“Bearing in mind the great contribution women bring to the development of society, it is incumbent on all government departments, agencies and policy makers to ensure that all possible mechanisms for advancing gender equality are used rigorously. An Ireland of equals can only be achieved in the context of full equality for women.”
She said it shows how much work needs to be done to redress that balance.
The study said it would take another 45 years for women to receive a similar-sized pension to men. The income for retired women is currently 40% less than for men.The gap between the hourly pay for part-time workers, who are predominantly women, and that of their full-time colleagues will also take 25 years to close.
“This is totally unacceptable,” says Anderson. “It is clear from this report that despite all the strategies and policies adopted by government to promote gender equality, extensive discrimination against women in all areas of life still exists.
“Bearing in mind the great contribution women bring to the development of society, it is incumbent on all government departments, agencies and policy makers to ensure that all possible mechanisms for advancing gender equality are used rigorously. An Ireland of equals can only be achieved in the context of full equality for women.”