Transcript of Prime Ministerial Debate

Note: This clip contains excerpts from the Prime Ministerial debate in St. George's Grenada on June 8, 1995. Ms. Williams asked a four part question which the candidates were allowed only two minutes to answer. This clip contains the third part of the question, which was the only part related to gender issues, and the candidates' responses to that part. Due to the time constraint, both Mr. Mitchell and Mr. Jones were cut off before they were finished responding to this part. A fourth candidate, Mr. George Brizan, spent too much time answering the first two parts of the question and was therefore unable to respond to the third part at all.

Dessima Williams: What are the specific policies both in the private and in the public sector would you like to see changed to bring about equity between the genders?

Mr. Terrence Marryshow: As far as gender issues are concerned, in both the public and private sector, we would like to see all forms of discrimination removed. As far as giving women the right to equal pay for equal work... to participating fully in the process of development as men, and [working] to insure that all of the laws that discriminate against women, whether private or public will be removed.

Mr. Keith Mitchell: The question of women... clearly that's a major consideration. We'll certainly like to deal with laws that help do away with discrimination. [Out of time for response.]

Mr. Ben Jones: What changes? Mister moderator, you know, I have a problem. This matter of equity among the... in the gender area. [I must say that] I do not see a problem among our ladies at all. We've always recognized the rights of our ladies, and in Grenada in particular they have had a position of superiority, if anything, over the men. In fact, I was about to lead a little crusade to win some additional rights for the men. We have to catch up with the ladyfolk. I have no problem... [Out of time for response.]

Note: This transcript represents Michael Cohen's best effort at accuracy, based on repeated viewings of the source tapes. Transcripts should not, however, be assumed to correspond perfectly with the oral statements they reflect. All statements are subject to interpretation and human error in understanding.