Tracey Martin MP
Spokesperson for Women

Government Neglecting Women of Merit

The appalling record of Government ministers hiring less than three women for every 10 appointees to state sector boards continues with Broadcasting Minister Amy Adams’ recent announcement of top jobs in state broadcasting.

“Four out of five appointments announced yesterday by the Minister were men. The only appointment of a woman was made for ‘continuity’,” says New Zealand First Spokesperson for Women Tracey Martin.

“This is not the first time a government minister has appointed a disproportionate number of men to highly paid positions of influence.

“The government argues that special temporary measures to enable gender balance are not required because women will be appointed on merit.

“The Minister for Women, Louise Upston, has been weak on gender equality issues. She has talked about addressing the unconscious bias against women in New Zealand but she should start by looking at the record of her cabinet colleagues.

“New Zealand First refuses to believe government ministers cannot find more women of merit. Evidence proves that gender balanced boards function more effectively,” says Mrs Martin.

ENDS

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