Women in Politics Finds Support at Local Government New Zealand Conference

Women in Politics, a brand-new organisation for New Zealand women in political office, was met with overwhelming support at the 2014 Local Government New Zealand Conference held this weekend in Nelson.

The networking opportunities at the conference meant that the group’s new Chair Angela O’Leary –also a Hamilton City Councillor –was able to introduce the group to Elected Members from around the country.

Ms O’Leary says, ‘what really struck a chord with me was the response and encouragement I received, particularly from the newly-elected women who I spoke to. They gave me confidence that we are on the right track, and that there is a need for this kind of group to support women who are in politics.’

Along with Mayors and Councillors, the organisation has also attracted widespread support amongst Ministers, MPs from around New Zealand, transcending across party lines.

‘I have been overwhelmed with the messages of support from around the country. Many have wondered why an organisation like this hasn’t happened before. There is a lot of excitement and strong support coming from our future members.’

Women in Politics is a national body of elected women who are in local and central government. The organisation aims to foster loyalty and support amongst members, inspire and promote other women –particularly younger women –to view politics as a career choice, and generate public discussion and debate about women’s place in political leadership.

‘WIP’, as the group is fondly known, was born out of a desire to change the status quo of women’s representation in government, which has sat around 30% for over a decade.

The group already has a website www.womeninpolitics.org.nz and a Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/womeninpoliticsNZ, with official membership opening soon.

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