‘Tell your MPs to back women’s bill’

PRIME Minister Sir Michael Somare urges women to lobby support from their MPs when the Bill for reserved seats for women comes before Parliament.
He assured women in West New Britain the Government would address some of their concerns, including amendments to the National Council Women Act.
Speaking at the end of the National Executive Council meeting in Kimbe last week, Sir Michael said many concerns were similar to those raised by women in general.
“The concerns were raised by the Provincial Council of Women through Dame Carol Kidu.
“Let me assure the women of West New Britain that your concerns have been brought to my attention and the National Government will be addressing them.
“Many of them are similar to those raised by other women’s groups nationwide,” the Prime Minister said.
“On the National Council of Women Act, I am advised by my Minister for Community Development that she intends to bring to Parliament this Bill in the March sitting of Parliament.
“In relation to the reserved seats for women in Parliament, I reaffirm that my Government is committed to ensuring that seats specifically designed for women are made available in our Parliament.
“It would help the Government greatly, if women  from all corners of our country can lobby MPs, especially from your electorates, to lend their support to the Government’s efforts when it is tabled for reading,” Sir Michael said.