MP Milne said after winning her seat in Parliament, she requested a ministerial portfolio but did not receive a response.

“Yes, of course. Women face many barriers,” she said.

“After winning the election, I asked for a ministerial portfolio as the only female in this 14th Legislature and being voted by 60 per cent of males and now I am with 51 male colleagues. Where is the value placed on women in this place,” she said.

The MP said despite representing both male and female voters, she feels women in politics are often overlooked and must work harder to be heard.

“I requested a portfolio. It is sad, but the answer was not coming through because women have to talk ‘three times’ before we are heard,” she said.

MP Milne also said she is not part of any parliamentary committee responsible for examining bills and other important parliamentary matters.

“Even today, I am not part of any committee in this Parliament,” she said, adding that while she represents Vanuatu in La Francophonie, she has not been included in committees dealing with legislative work.

“I believe that I am a woman, and like I said, I need to talk three times to be heard,” she added.

Despite the challenges, MP Milne said she remains committed to representing women and communities across Vanuatu.

“This journey is not easy, but it is not only my story — it is the story of every woman across Vanuatu,” she said.

She said her presence in Parliament is important to ensure women’s voices are heard in national decision-making.

“The battle is not easy, but we are moving slowly, and we are proud to have a woman in Parliament who can voice the concerns for mamas especially and everyone. Everyone has to be included,” MP Milne said.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST