Arnold Cassola, Alternattiva Demokratika Chairperson, led an AD delegation for meeting with the Womens Confederation on the 3rd of October.
Throughout the meeting the local situation of women in politics was discussed. It is estimated that Malta has the lowest number of women involved in politics.
Profs Arnold Cassola said that, “Alternattiva Demokratika has been the pioneer in introducing the quota system for women, with an affermative action proviso for women on the party’s executive committee since 1989.”
Commenting on the budget proposals presented by the Malta Confederation of Womens Organisations, AD spokesperson for Health and Social Protection Mary Anne Zammit said,” As clearly stated by EuroStat, Malta has the lowest female participation in employment compared to other EU member states. Women are the least represented in the work sector due to their many other responsibilities. Addressing these issues will be an important step in getting more women to integrate more in society through work.”
“The confederation’s proposals include the setting up of childcare facilities, more flexible conditions for women returning to work after maternity leave, and the introduction of teleworking and a father’s quota of parental leave, and a more comprehensive review of the income tax.”
“Other proposals which concern women’s health are crucial. Breast screening programmes which are preventive measures against breast cancer should be extended to all women. Targeted health education programmes are also a priority. Recent reports indicate that sexually transmitted diseases are on the increase.”
“Alternattiva Demokratika urges the Government to take these proposals into consideration in the forthcoming budget. AD wants to see more women participation in society and taking a more active role in politics, thus taking on a cnetral role in influencing the decision making process.”