CMNT_TITLE

The Committee notes the Government's report and the information supplied in reply to its previous direct requests.

1. With respect to employment in the Tokelau Public Service (TPS), the Committee notes that appointments are based upon work experience and competence, personal qualities and attributes, and relevant education and other qualifications. It also notes that, within the constraints of the above criteria, TPS management is conscious of the need, and wherever possible attempts, to appoint women in particular to "non-traditional" areas. The report cites two examples of women moving into categories traditionally dominated by men. The Committee hopes that the Government will continue its efforts to appoint women to non-traditional areas and to supply information in its next report in this regard.

2. The Committee further notes that, according to the Government's report, no specific measures have been taken to ensure equality of opportunity for both sexes. The Committee hopes the Government will, to the extent possible, take measures to ensure that women and men have equal opportunities and receive equal treatment in employment in the public service. In this regard, the Committee recalls the importance of providing equal access to educational institutions, vocational training and guidance and placement services to both girls and boys, and men and women, to enable both sexes, on an equal footing, to enter into employment of their own choice and to advance in accordance with their individual character, experience, ability and diligence.

3. The Committee notes the information supplied on the practical application of section K of the Tokelau Public Service Manual and requests the Government to continue providing information on the sex and position of persons in the public service who have benefited from training under this provision. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on any other educational or vocational training opportunities offered to members of the public service, and to indicate the sex and position of persons benefiting from such provisions.

The Committee requests the Government to attach, with its next report, the statistics called for under point V of the report form, as well as copies of labour inspection reports of the Tokelau Public Service from 1988 to the present.