Sexual Harassment Bill being discussed

To ensure maximum input from the public, the government is holding a series of meetings in the coming weeks to discuss the proposed Sexual Harassment Bill, 2023.

Back in March, government issued a White Paper and a period of consultation was open to the public until 15 April 2023. This resulted in significant responses from over 300 individuals and organisations. A summary of the public feedback can be viewed by visiting the public consultation website at www.gov.ky/sexualharassment .

The decision to hold meetings now is to share some of the proposed changes to the White Paper based on the feedback received and to facilitate some additional public consultation on this very important bill of national concern, the government said in a press release.

The Sexual Harassment Bill seeks to provide individuals with protection from sexual harassment. It sets out requirements and duties for employers, institutions and associations, as well as members of qualifying bodies, associations, charitable/not-for-profit organisations, employment agencies, people involved in the transaction of goods, services, facilities, real or personal property, landlords and tenants, and relevant third parties.

Premier Wayne Panton said he was pleased with the level of engagement and support which was received during the first round of public consultation.

“It shows that our country expects the government to address sexual harassment in a robust and well thought out way,” he stated. “Our government recognises the scale and scope of this legislation and therefore felt it necessary to ensure that everyone had an opportunity to give feedback - particularly the business community who will be asked to ensure many of the provisions of the bill are upheld. I once again urge the public to acquaint themselves with the proposed bill and the feedback shared so far by attending the Town Hall or joining us online.” 

To participate in the In-person and Virtual Town Hall the public is invited to attend:

• Where: George Town Public Library

• When: Tuesday, 15 August 2023 630 – 730pm

• How to participate: Attend in person or submit questions on CIGTV YouTube or CIG Facebook during the event

• Questions and feedback may also be submitted ahead of the Town Hall to genderequality@gov.ky  

• Watch on CIGTV or CIG Facebook (Logic channel 23, C3 channel 3, and Flow channel 106). Feedback will be collated, analysed and incorporated into the draft Sexual Harassment Bill for consideration by Cabinet and Gazetted in the fourth quarter of 2023.

District Meetings will be announced at a later date.