Meeting Dolores Cristina

A delegation led by NCW president Helga Ellul together with vice-president Grace Attard, general secretary Doris Bingley and EU/youth committee co-ordinator, Dr Roselyn Borg, recently visited Social Solidarity Minister Dolores Cristina.

The aim of the meeting was to exchange views on how the NCW can work hand in hand with the ministry to address current and future gender equality issues. Ms Ellul presented the council's recommendations on the Domestic Violence Bill (now in committee stage), after which a discussion on key areas of domestic violence took place.

The meeting also served to discuss the council's budget proposals for next year. In line with its proposals, the NCW is offering training opportunities for women of all ages - providing the necessary skills that will enhance the role of women in the family and their access to the labour market.

Among other issues discussed were the importance of financial independence for women, flexible work arrangements, NI contributions and part-time work, individuals with special needs in employment, temping agencies, the use of school premises for after school activities throughout the year and also a revision of rent laws.