24 May 2005

Workplace Is Major Focus For Women’s Affairs

Women's safety in the home and their ability to participate as fully in the workforce as they choose are the priorities for the Ministry of Women's Affairs during the next three years.

This work demonstrates the Ministry’s goal to broaden the gains in economic well-being to all women, and the importance of making progress on issues such as domestic violence.

The Ministry's Statement of Intent 2005-2008 released today says that the Ministry is pursuing a range of policy projects that enhance women's participation in the workforce but balances this participation with their roles as carers. Economic well-being for women is essential, but with the second major goal of the Action Plan for New Zealand Women being work-life balance, women’s overall well-being must respect their caring responsibilities. Work on childcare, paid parental leave, retirement savings, housing and businesses owned and operated by women are also important.

The Statement of Intent also shows how the Ministry supports the activities of other government agencies. The Ministry keeps a watching eye on the programmes outlined in the Action Plan for New Zealand Women and assists with policy intervention when more is necessary to sustain that progress.

Chief Executive Shenagh Gleisner said the Ministry has made significant progress in the last year in building its capability so it can have a positive influence in the three focus areas of economic independence, work-life balance and well-being.

“A recent review of the Ministry’s performance by the State Services Commission says the Ministry has become stronger, more respected and more influential.
The Statement of Intent builds on this and will guide our work to benefit the lives of
New Zealand women in the areas that are important to them,” says Ms Gleisner.

“Ensuring that women are fairly paid, can enter and re-enter the workforce and balance paid and unpaid work will assist them to gain economic independence for themselves and their families.”

A copy of the SOI can be found under ‘publications’ on the Ministry of Women’s Affairs’ website at www.mwa.govt.nz.

ENDS

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