KINGSTON, CMC – Minister of Gender, Olivia Grange, has congratulated all women who have been elected or appointed to the new parliament.
Of the 189 candidates for the recent General Elections, 53 were women, of whom 19 have been elected.
In a statement on Saturday, Grange said she was “happy to see so many women allowing their names to go forward and winning the confidence of the voters. Women have long been among the most dedicated foot soldiers in political organization in Jamaica, and it is only right that more women should take their place as representatives.”
Seven women have also been appointed to the Senate.
Grange said she looked forward to engaging with women members of parliament and Senators through the Caucus of Women Parliamentarians, a sessional committee comprising all women in the House.
The Caucus, established in 2022, provides a platform for women in parliament to discuss issues related to women’s rights and gender equality.
It also enables women to undertake actions that have a positive impact on the inclusiveness of the legislature, legislative process, and the country as a whole.
“It is essential that we increase the number of women decision-makers at the highest levels and give them full support,” said Grange.
“There are no downsides, and we all benefit when women and men work together to address the challenges that we all face.”