Sep 19 - Women’s Association “Saddened” By Government’s Response To Hassan Nahon
The Gibraltar Women’s Association has said that it finds the Minister Licudi’s recent behaviour in parliament “completely unacceptable and not becoming from a gentleman or a minister.”
A statement continued: “This is not a gender issue, but one of complete lack of respect for a fellow MP. The use of profanity within the House must never be accepted and Ms Hassan Nahon has been disrespected for doing her job. It cannot be how the house is represented. Parliament is televised and listened to in homes throughout Gibraltar and threatening behaviour of any kind, shape or form must not be tolerated in local society.
“Ministers must remember the role that they are entrusted in, and as such be accountable for their behaviour at all times. We are saddened that HM Government, which had an opportunity to let Mr Licudi apologise and draw a line under this matter, has compounded this behaviour by laying blame on Ms Hassan Nahon and accusing her of a lack of professionalism. This is an example of further bullying. Furthermore an example of bullying at work is when someone repeatedly victimises, humiliates, threatens or intimidates and their actions create a risk to health and safety. Some examples of bullying are: insulting, yelling or swearing .
“The Opposition should be taking a firm stand at this unacceptable behaviour and we are disappointed this, to date, has not been forthcoming.
“As an independent in the house Ms Nahon must not be ostracised for speaking out. Independents must be encouraged for the modernisation of Gibraltar’s governance and not victimised. The speaker of the House is also encouraged to be firmer and ensure that there are consequences to this misconduct. An apology is the least to expect in such circumstances and blame should not be turned to Ms Hasan Nahon in any way shape or form.
“The GWA call for a review on the Code of Conduct in Parliament and that the government publish an in house anti bullying policy with consequences of violating the code.”
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