The Minister notes that Saint Lucia faces a long road to achieving notable gender equality milestones, particularly in the field of work.

Dr Poyotte says the government is looking for organic methods of bridging the gender divide in employment sectors. The Minister says while differences will exist between the work ethic of women and men, both sexes will add valuable input in the work environment.

“When we see areas where women are lacking, it is also our responsibility to help women to take their positions and play an active role. And where we notice that there are areas where we have a lack of men present, it is our responsibility to ensure that we have men taking on positions and playing a role,” she stated.

To the contrary, the Minister highlighted, gender equality and women empowerment is not an affront to men. She says by empowering both sexes, the country can begin achieving record rates of productivity and development.

“It is one where we try to bring both men and women together so we can advance both men and women in all areas of development in the country.”

Despite notions that gender discrimination does not exist in Saint Lucian society, the Minister had this to say:

“Whereas some people may argue that it is not deliberate, but the way we are socialised and the things that we do, it actually marginalises one gender.”