Premier Dunkley Speaks At Women’s Conference
Premier Michael Dunkley addressed the attendees of the CPA Women’s Leadership Conference, commending the organizers for “bringing together a powerful group of international and local women leaders.”
The CPA Bermuda Women’s Leadership Conference is presented by the Chartered Professional Accountants [CPA] of Bermuda and local business partners, and this is the second year that Premier Dunkley has addressed the group.
With the theme “It’s Your Move”, this year’s event focus is on providing participants with the knowledge and tools which will allow them to take control of their careers and more effectively position themselves for success.
Addressing the conference, which is being held at the Fairmont Southampton, are influential decision-makers and thought-leaders. Special guests at the event include Joy Thomas, President and CEO of CPA Canada and Dr. Purna Sen, Director of Policy at UN Women, New York.
In addition to the overseas guests, presenters and panelists also included former Premier Dame Jennifer Smith, Minister of Home Affairs Patricia Gordon-Pamplin, Minister of Health and Seniors Jeanne Atherden and Opposition MP Kim Wilson.
Premier Dunkley with Dame Jennifer Smith, Acting Governor Ginny Ferson, Minister Gordon Pamplin, and representatives and guest speakers of the CPA Women’s Leadership Conference.
Premier Dunkley also used the occasion to update attendees on Bermuda’s steps to incorporate the UN’s Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women, commonly known as CEDAW.
During his remarks, Premier Dunkley said, “Last year I had the honour of attending this conference and was thoroughly impressed by the inspiring line-up of speakers. You have followed suit again this year with a high calibre of panellists and guests.
“I am certain that by the end of your conference, members will leave here feeling, encouraged, motivated and empowered to do their part to raise other women up to ensure that they succeed.
“I wish to acknowledge and extend a special welcome to Dr. Purna Sen, Director of Policy at UN Women, New York.
“Dr. Sen has incredible insight, knowledge and experience in the areas of culture and human rights, activism, advocacy, social development issues and race equality. Thank you Dr. Sen for visiting Bermuda, and thank you for the work that you do on behalf of so many.
“I am certain that your participation at this year’s CPA Conference will undoubtedly be a transformative experience for all our attendees.
“Last year when I addressed the conference, I shared with you that our Government was keen to address matters of gender equality to ensure that women enjoy the same access to opportunities and benefits within and beyond the work place. This year I can assure you that work continues under the Ministry of Social Development and Sports.
“I think it’s also important to point out that in the last year, a Parliamentary Joint Select Committee on Women’s Issues and Unemployment was created.
“The group comprises of members from the House and Senate from both sides of the aisle and is chaired by my Parliamentary colleague, Kim Wilson, who is here today. It’s my hope that MP Wilson will be able to share with you some details on the important work her committee is doing.
“As it relates to the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women, commonly known as CEDAW, we have made good progress. We have completed extensive work on a series of thirteen [13] CEDAW compliance templates provided by the UK Government Equalities Office.
“The compliance templates include the following topics: nationality; rural women; trafficking and exploitation; health; education; employment; discrimination; governance; migrant women; family life; political and public life; civil legal matters; and criminal legal matters.
“The UK Government Equalities Office has reviewed the compliance templates and overall was broadly pleased with the evidence submitted. There are a number of points which require further clarification and we are working to address these as we move forward.
“Currently the compliance templates are under legal review by our Attorney-General’s Chambers.
“Following this review, it is intended that a Cabinet Memorandum will be prepared with a recommendation to Cabinet that Bermuda formally request the UK to extend the CEDAW Convention to Bermuda, since Bermuda is not yet a signatory to the Convention.
“Once CEDAW has been formally extended to Bermuda, work will then begin on identifying areas of policy and/or legislation that either don’t exist or need to be updated in order to enhance Bermuda’s compliance with CEDAW. This is important since CEDAW has a rigorous reporting requirement.”
The Premier explained that some topics for which Government may choose to develop policy and/or legislation once CEDAW is extended include A Programme on Domestic Violence; Equal Pay for Work of Equal Value; Developing a Minimum Livable Wage; and Developing a Mentor Programme for Women.
Premier Dunkley wrapped up his welcome by encouraging those in attendance and the CPA membership to consider what they can do to aid in furthering and influencing gender equality policies.
“As a Government, we rely on your participation, advice and direction. Without proper input and sound guidance from you, we can only do so much,” the Premier said.
“As I look around the room I am reminded that this is an awesome gathering of some key female leaders in our community – from the public sector, business, technology, human rights, philanthropy and more.
“We need your input if we are to make any kind of significant change that will aid us in further cracking that glass ceiling. Those of you assembled here today each have a story to tell about the path you’ve taken to get to where you are.
“I know for many of you those paths haven’t been easy, but through great personal sacrifice and courage you persevered and you succeeded. So, it’s important that you share your story, because your experience of perseverance and determination can serve as an inspiration for other women.
“Lastly, I recognize that women all across Bermuda – inside and outside of the boardroom – are making tremendous sacrifices on a daily basis. And as Premier I wish to thank you for your contribution to shaping our community, nurturing our families and sharing your wisdom.
“The Government is proud to support CPA Bermuda and this sisterhood of leaders. So lean-in during this conference, make a difference, and in doing so I am confident that you will make a meaningful and lasting change.
“Thank you for inviting me to participate today, and I look forward to hearing about the outcomes of these very powerful panel discussions and seminars.”
Do you all see what I see? A plp person is in the pic with dunk.
Its nice you updated them on the eliminatiin of discrimination against women, but how about elimination of discrimination against Black People.
Stop moaning and do something. White people are not to blame for everything.
Barking up the wrong tree…that ones stuck on stupid! Can easily tell he or she hasn’t truly been out into the real world to experience life outside of 22 miles!
No they are not de blame for everything, but looking at de History books……
Mmmmmmm
What real world, cant be talking about U.S.
Hands up don’t shoot, I cant breath !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You are right…they are not to blame for everything only for most of the things that have disadvantaged, marginalized and oppressed black (non white) people in this country.
And when you and others take ownership of the above and stop insulting black people by characterizing their concerns as “moaning” we will then be on our way to creating a better Bermuda.
Stop with the claim of inequality and oh how poor are we campaign and get of your butt and earn what you get! The harder I work at my two jobs the richer I become! Sit on the wall and all you get are passers by waving at you!
I work hard but am rewarded for my hard work and have no regrets or issues with my lot in life
Go get yours!
Good to hear, but Racism still exist and needs to be addressed.