Toni hails new law for women

 PARLIAMENT has finally passed the National Council of Women’s bill, which gives women greater access to representation in all levels of government. 

Community Development Minister Loujaya Toni hailed the new legislation as an opportunity for women in PNG to be equal partners in development and growth. 

“This is a win-win situation for all. It was a long overdue agenda which has been around for a while and I thank the male MPs for their support to recognise and allow women to partake in the development of the nation,” she said after the passage of the bill last Thursday.

“I am excited of this and I look forward to working more closely with the council and the women.” 

Toni added that the next step was to kick-start operations by holding the council’s first annual general meeting and locating office space.

Public Service Sir Puka Temu said it was about time the country recognised the potential of women in making decisions and policies to develop the country. 

He urged other parliamentarians to recognise the mandate given to the three current women MPs – Toni (Lae), Governor Julie Soso (Eastern Highlands) and Treasury Vice-Minister Delilah Gore (Sohe).

Meanwhile, Governor-General Sir Michael Ogio also announced a recommendation for the national executive council to approve funding to the women’s council.