MSP and councillor to share experiences at International Women’s Day event on Benbecula
Abigail Taylor
Ariane Burgess MSP and Cllr Rachael King from Orkney Council will attend virtually to share their experiences entering politics and to answer questions.
How women can influence decision-making has been a talking point in the islands for several months and, appropriately, will be the focus of a special event coming up this month to mark International Women’s Day.
North Uist and Benbecula Locality Partnership is hosting the event, which will take place at the Dark Island Hotel from 6.30pm on 8th March 2022.
Ariane Burgess MSP (pictured), commented: “I am so excited to take part in this event encouraging women from North Uist, South Uist and Benbecula to stand for election to the Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar. I know that there are fantastic women in the area who would make excellent councillors and bring new skills and experiences to the Council.
I am glad to see that Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar is open to using technology to develop hybrid working practices which will remove travel and cost barriers to participation. Beyond that, it’s vital for us all to create a culture where women feel valued and safe participating in politics. We have to challenge sexism and misogyny wherever we see it in public life.
I hope, not only that women will be elected to the council, but also that they will be properly supported in doing their duties with accommodations being made to ensure they can participate fully in Council business.”
Cllr Rachael King said :“I was inspired to take up this invitation after reading the many articles that have been published in the Western Isles on the challenges that women face and have experienced when considering taking on a role in local politics. Many of the comments were familiar to me.
I am keen to offer what little support I can to encourage anyone standing for election to know that the changes that we seek are often only possible by taking a deep breath, putting ourselves forward as members of the public who bring our lived experience, knowledge and understanding to strengthen the communities in which we live.”
Places at the event, which is free to attend, should be booked in advance (email development@nubp.org or call 07795510927). If you are unable to attend in person, email to request a link to join on Teams.
