Minister Xingwana meets with progressive women over WEGE Bill
On the eve of Parliament’s public hearings on the Women Empowerment and Gender Equality (WEGE) Bill, the Minister of Women, Children and People with Disabilities (DWCPD), Ms Lulu Xingwana joined WEGE Bill roundtable discussions with the Progressive Women's Movement of South Africa (PWMSA), convened by Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Prof Hlengiwe Mkhize.
Parliament will from tomorrow (Wednesday 29) – Thursday 30 January be holding hearings to allow members of the public and stakeholders to make submissions on the Bill.
Minister Xingwana addressed PWMSA on the significance of the Bill and why it is important for organisations such as theirs to meaningfully contribute in the public participation process as this is an opportunity they have to shape the Bill before it is enacted.
Once enacted, the Bill will become a powerful instrument to advance the objectives of women empowerment and gender equality. It will enforce compliance both within and outside the public service.
This meeting followed DWCPD’s week-long (22-27 January) consultations with relevant and affected stakeholders (Women Sector) which aimed to inform and get them ready to make valuable and informed inputs during public participation period.
The WEGE Bill was consulted widely within the country, published in the government gazette in August 2012 and negotiated with NEDLAC between January and May 2013. Cabinet approved the WEGE Bill for Parliament process in October 2013.
For more information please contact the following:
Ministry:
Mr Motalatale Modiba: Media Liaison Officer
Cell: 072 515 3022
Tel: 012 359 0023
E-mail: motalatale.modiba@dwcpd.gov.za
Department (Corporate):
Ms Kenosi Machepa: Chief Director Communication
Tel: 012 369 0196
Cell: 072 571 2221
E-mail: kenosi.machepa@dwcpd.gov.za
