Sinn Fein MEP Martina Anderson
SINN Féin MEP Martina Anderson has welcomed a report assessing implementation of equal opportunities and equal treatment of transgender people, due to come before the European Parliament this week.
Speaking from Strasbourg, the Derry politicians said today: ‘The Zaborska Report assesses the implementation of the Directive on Equal opportunities and equal treatment of men and women in matters of employment and occupation. It also contains several aspects that are important to improve trans people’s position at the job market.
“Because of gender-stereotypes in a gender-binary society, many trans people experience discrimination in education, employment or health care. This often results in trans people becoming more likely to be victims of repetitive violence.
“The report outlines that 30% of trans jobseekers experienced discrimination when looking for a job, with trans women being most likely to have felt discriminated against. Transgender women are therefore at risk of multiple discrimination in employment and occupation.”
Ms Anderson added: “In terms of countries of gender identity and gender expression across Europe, Ireland appears to be one of the least trans friendly countries.
2There are 22 terms under which trans people are entitled to rights, however Ireland only equates to one of these terms – that a trans person is allowed to change their name.
“In comparison, the British Government has legislated for 17 of these entitlements, including marrying a person of another gender, hate crime law and that no compulsory surgical intervention is required.
“So although I welcome this report and the Sinn Féin delegation of MEPs will be voting in favour of it, the government in the south of Ireland needs to move with the times and ensure trans people feel welcome in, and become part of, our society.”
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