The Women’s Parliamentary Caucus headed by its Chairperson Hon. Regina Esparon, held a meeting with the First Lady of the Republic of Seychelles, Mrs. Linda Ramkalawan on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2021 on Monday the 08th of March 2021. Joining the Caucus to welcome the First Lady was the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Roger Mancienne and the Clerk, Mrs. Tania Isaac.
The meeting was a familiarisation process for the First Lady and the women Parliamentarians. It was an opportunity for the Committee to find ways to integrate their planned activities with that of the First Lady to see areas of possible collaboration.
The Vice-Chairperson of the Committee, Hon. Chantal Ghislain initiated the meeting with a moving speech about what it means to be a woman, what challenges it brings and also what joys it brings. Hon. Ghislain made known the fact that it was an honour for the Committee to meet with her as the First Lady and that this meeting is the beginning of a new route of communication and plans for the future. She emphasized on the fact that many women and young girls are facing battles related to drugs, alcohol, disciplinary issues at school, social problems and more. The Members of the Committee and the First Lady, both shared their enthusiasm to work together for the betterment of society, especially when it comes to women and children.
The First Lady also took this opportune moment to share her views on several topics related to the women and children of Seychelles. She has a particularly strong desire to help the children of Seychelles and find solutions to the social ills which affect them on a day-to-day basis. Mrs. Ramkalawan acknowledges that there are several issues that need to be tackled even when it comes to foster care. This is an area that requires great attention. She also spoke of the several Organisations that she has had the honour of meeting from late last year up til now and how their conversations have shed light on many issues that needed to be addressed. One thing in particular that the First Lady felt is needed right now in the country, is a school for children with Autism so that their specific needs are met.
The Committee ended the meeting on a hopeful note that they will be able to meet the First Lady, Mrs. Linda Ramkalawan in the near future to initiate their planned activities.
Apart from the Chairperson, Hon. Regina Esparon and the Vice-Chairperson, Hon. Chantal Ghislain, the Committee is comprised of 6 ordinary Members, namely: Hon. Kelly Samynadin, Hon. Doyace Porice, Hon. Desheila Bastienne, Hon. Sylvanne Lemiel and Hon. Audrey Vidot.
